FM Fidan meets UK Foreign Secretary Lammy in London
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (R) meets with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy (L) to hold talks on bilateral relations, regional and international developments during his official visit in London, United Kingdom on October 30, 2024. (AA Photo)
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy in London, marking Fidan’s first official bilateral visit to the U.K. since the Labour Party came to power.
The meeting focused on enhancing strategic relations between the two NATO allies.
Key Issues: Defense, trade and regional developments
The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including discussions on updating the 2020 Free Trade Agreement and enhancing defense cooperation. Fidan expressed optimism that their talks would contribute to updating the trade agreement, which is set to boost trade beyond its current £26 billion ($33.8 billion) level.
“We have strong commercial ties, and our objective is to elevate cooperation between our countries further,” said Fidan before the meeting.
Lammy echoed Fidan’s sentiments, noting, “The U.K. and Türkiye have an indispensable relationship as NATO allies at opposite ends of Europe.”
Solidarity following recent terrorist attack in Türkiye
Lammy extended his condolences over the terrorist attack on the Turkish Aerospace Industries’ headquarters in Ankara on Oct. 23, expressing solidarity with Türkiye during this difficult time.
He reaffirmed the U.K.’s support, stating that both countries share significant security concerns.
“Türkiye is an indispensable ally to the U.K.,” Lammy said.
Regional developments and future diplomatic efforts
Besides defense and trade, the foreign ministers discussed regional developments in the Middle East, particularly the conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan. Both emphasized the need for continued dialogue and cooperation in addressing these issues.
Fidan’s visit builds upon recent diplomatic exchanges, including Lammy’s trip to Türkiye in March and former U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s visit in January.
