FM: Türkiye committed to strengthening partnership with Africa

Ankara remains firmly committed to strengthening a solid partnership with African countries, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated.

He made the remarks at the 3rd Ministerial Review Conference of the Türkiye-Africa Partnership, held in Djibouti, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

The minister conveyed greetings from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to the participants of the event.

The diplomat highlighted Africa’s young population, vast resources, and rapidly growing markets, noting that these factors position the continent for an increasingly significant role on the global stage in the 21st century.

He also pointed out a number of complex challenges facing Africa, including "terrorism, inequality, the adverse impacts of climate change, underdevelopment, and illegal migration."

Fidan emphasized Ankara’s commitment to the principle of allowing African countries to address their own challenges independently.

Addressing security issues, Fidan underscored Türkiye’s support for African countries in combating terrorism and establishing stability in regions affected by conflicts on the continent.

Focusing on the situation in Sudan, he urged the international community to work towards an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of lasting peace in the country.

Turning to economic matters, Fidan highlighted the expanding trade volume between Türkiye and African countries, which surpassed $35 billion in 2023. According to him, Turkish investments in the African economy amount to approximately $7 billion.

The minister noted that Türkiye is taking a comprehensive approach to strengthening and developing economic partnerships with African countries, including steps in healthcare, food security, and environmental sustainability.

He also emphasized the high level of diplomatic ties between Ankara and the countries of the continent. According to the minister, Türkiye operates 44 embassies in African countries, while 38 African countries maintain diplomatic missions in Türkiye.

The Turkish senior diplomat reiterated Ankara’s call for UN reform, particularly for equal representation in the Security Council.

He praised African countries for their support of the Palestinian cause reminded that Türkiye has consistently advocated for granting the African Union permanent membership in the Group of Twenty (G20).

By Khagan Isayev