ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an analysis of Turkey–NATO relations since Turkey became a member in 1952. It explores the mutually constitutive role of Turkey–NATO relations in building their respective identities, both from the strategic imperatives and security concerns perspective as well as within the context of NATO’s roles of collective defence and collective security. It also identifies the moments of contention that adversely affect mutual relations. The chapter argues that notwithstanding pre-given strategic concerns, the security interests of both parties are not merely defined by rational calculations of material interests, but essentially constructed through their interactions, which in turn have defined their respective security identities.
