Zelenskyy praises Türkiye's support, announces readiness to ratify free trade pact

On March 13, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine considers Türkiye a vital partner in securing the country's safety and future, further noting that Kyiv is prepared to ratify a free trade agreement with Türkiye.

"Ukraine considers Türkiye as one of its strategic partners as well as a partner in terms of security guarantees and is ready to ratify the Free Trade Agreement with Türkiye during the upcoming visit of President Erdogan," Zelenskyy stated, without specifying the exact date of the planned visit, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Zelenskyy's comments came after his meeting in Kyiv with Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat and Agriculture Minister İbrahim Yumaklı, where they discussed strengthening bilateral ties, increasing cooperation in drone production, and the involvement of Turkish businesses in Ukraine's post-war reconstruction efforts.

"It is important that Turkish businesses are already present in Ukraine. Our country appreciates this, as well as Türkiye's support and assistance, particularly the supply of Bayraktar drones," Zelenskyy added, highlighting the significance of Türkiye’s contributions to Ukraine's defence.

Türkiye, a NATO member, has maintained a balanced diplomatic stance since the onset of the war in Ukraine in 2022. While it supports Ukraine militarily and defends its territorial integrity, Türkiye has chosen not to join Western sanctions against Russia, fostering positive relations with both countries.

In addition, Bolat and Yumaklı attended the inaugural meeting of the Türkiye-Ukraine task force on post-war reconstruction.

Bolat reported that over 20 companies from Türkiye's contracting and technical consulting sectors participated, alongside representatives from both the Ukrainian public and private sectors, all focused on Ukraine's rebuilding efforts.

By Tamilla Hasanova