It is always possible to find a solution to the issue of Russian S-400 missile systems, said Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, confirming that Turkey is ready to take into account the concerns of its partners over these systems, according to Bloomberg HT Turkish.

"One can always find a reasonable solution. Turkey's contribution to NATO and NATO's cooperation with Turkey is much deeper and more comprehensive than the F-35s and the S-400s," Akar said.

Turkey's acquisition of the S-400s from Russia in July 2019 has caused serious tensions in relations with Washington, which considers these antiaircraft missile systems incompatible with NATO technology and poses a threat to this alliance.

In response, the United States has excluded the Turkish Air Force from the production program for the F-35 fighter jets, suspended Turkish companies from producing parts for these aircrafts, and imposed sanctions on Turkey.

"Turkey's main goal in acquiring the systems was to protect our country and our 84 million citizens from any air threat," Akar said.

The statement was made on the eve of the first meeting between the Presidents of Turkey and the United States. The S-400 systems are one of the issues hampering relations between Ankara and Washington, and they will be discussed at the NATO summit in Brussels on Monday.