Türkiye reaffirms commitment to Africa at ministerial conference

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to building robust partnerships with African nations at the 3rd Türkiye-Africa Partnership Ministerial Review Conference in Djibouti.

Addressing key issues from security to economic development, Fidan underscored the importance of collaboration for mutual progress.

Enhancing Türkiye-Africa diplomatic, economic ties

Fidan conveyed greetings from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and praised the African Union’s leadership. He pointed out the continent’s youthful population and rich resources, noting that Africa is poised for a more significant role in global affairs.

Türkiye, a strategic partner of the African Union since 2008, has pursued a policy of structured, customized engagement with African countries.

• Economic growth: Türkiye’s trade with Africa surpassed $35 billion in 2023, complemented by $7 billion in investments.
• Diplomatic presence: Türkiye maintains 44 embassies in Africa, with 38 African embassies in Ankara, reflecting deep-rooted ties.

There is a very strong correlation between security and development, which is why Türkiye is taking a comprehensive and holistic approach to increasing our trade and economic partnerships with the continent.

Türkiye to address Africa’s security, stability challenges

Fidan highlighted the pressing challenges Africa faces, including terrorism, climate change, and irregular migration. Türkiye supports African nations in stabilizing conflict-affected regions and combating terrorism.

Fidan also discussed the ongoing conflict in Sudan, urging international cooperation for a ceasefire and long-term peace.

We have developed our bilateral relations with all African countries in a structured, systematic and tailored approach. We have also strengthened our multilateral relations within the framework of the African Union. We attach the utmost importance to Africa’s stability and we take Africa’s security concerns very seriously.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan

The conflict between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in April 2023, has claimed over 20,000 lives and displaced more than 10 million people. The U.N. has called for a resolution as the crisis pushes millions toward famine.

Türkiye’s strategic approach

Türkiye’s policy, described by Fidan as “African solutions to African problems,” aligns with the principles of the African Union and Agenda 2063.

This agenda outlines a vision for comprehensive development across the continent, a goal that Türkiye actively supports through collaborative efforts in health, food security, and environmental sustainability.

Call for UN reforms, global representation

Fidan concluded his address by advocating for reforms within the UN, particularly in the structure of the Security Council, to ensure fair representation.

It can no longer deliver peace, stability and justice for a very large part of the world. The international system has failed to stop the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East. Israel continues to commit genocidal crimes against the Palestinian people.

This unrestrained aggression threatens broader regional stability and international order. Coercive measures must be taken against Israel. We have launched an initiative calling for an arms embargo against Israel.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan

He commended African nations for their support of the Palestinian cause and emphasized the importance of their voices in global forums, including the G-20.

We all have a moral responsibility to work harder for a two-state solution that ensures the Palestinian people. South Africa’s submission to the International Court of Justice against Israel’s genocide is a powerful message from Africa.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan

“We believe that Africa can play an instrumental role in supporting the Palestinian cause and in stopping Israel,” he said.

“We appreciate the African countries that stand with Palestine,” he added, highlighting South Africa’s recent move to file evidence of “genocide” committed by Israel to the International Criminal Court.

The next Türkiye-Africa Summit is due to be held in 2026.