NATO's annual Nuclear Policy Symposium concluded in Istanbul on Wednesday (22 April 2026), bringing together 150 experts from across the Alliance to exchange views on nuclear policy and nuclear deterrence ahead of the Ankara Summit.
In his virtual address, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte thanked Türkiye for hosting the event and praised its strong contributions to Allied security, including its defence investments across all domains, adding that Türkiye's defence industry continues to innovate and grow.
"In times of great instability, as the importance of nuclear deterrence grows, we must ensure NATO's nuclear deterrence remains credible, safe, secure and effective," the Secretary General said. He added that as Allies approach the Ankara Summit, "crucial decisions will need to be made, including how NATO's nuclear posture will need to further adapt to the deteriorating security environment."
Experts from Allied countries also discussed geopolitical shifts and the nuclear landscape, the implications for arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation, as well as the full spectrum of issues relevant to NATO's nuclear deterrence and its continuous adaptation.
The Nuclear Policy Symposium has been held annually since 1992.
