WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — German, Turkish and Greek ships have been sent to join the exercises in a region that faces increased security challenges, the release added.
"NATO navies began a counter-mine warfare exercise in the Aegean Sea on 28 November 2016, aimed at testing combat readiness and strengthening ties between allies and partners," the release stated.
"NATO’s participation in the NUSRET exercise demonstrates the allies’ strong commitment to Turkey’s security, and contributes to increased stability," NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu noted in the release.
Last week, Turkish President Recep tayyip Erdogan stressed during the 62nd Parliamentary NATO sessions in Istanbul that Turkey has played an essential role in the alliance since the Cold War, providing political and military support for the organization.
