China, Türkiye to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation

China has expressed its commitment to strengthening counterterrorism cooperation with Türkiye, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a meeting with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Johannesburg on Thursday.

Wang emphasized that joint efforts by both nations in combatting terrorism have the backing of the international community.

“China is ready to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation with the Turkish side, work together to maintain peace and stability in the region and globally,” Wang was quoted as saying by the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s website.

Commitment to counterterrorism efforts

According to Wang, taking a firm stance against terrorism in all its forms aligns with the shared interests of both China and Türkiye. He also thanked Türkiye for its assistance in evacuating Chinese citizens from Syria.

“A resolute fight against terrorism in all its manifestations serves the common interests of China and Türkiye and enjoys strong support from the international community,” Wang stated.

Strengthening bilateral relations

Wang further noted that China places great importance on its relationship with Türkiye and aims to expand collaboration across various sectors.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, both sides discussed key regional issues. Fidan expressed appreciation for China’s “fair stance” on the Ukraine crisis and the Palestinian issue.

He also reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for the six-point China-Brazil consensus on Ukraine, which advocates dialogue and negotiation as the primary means of resolving the crisis.

Additionally, Fidan emphasized the necessity of addressing the Palestinian issue based on a “two-state solution.”

Economic and strategic cooperation

During the meeting, Fidan highlighted the deepening ties between China and Türkiye across multiple sectors. Türkiye views China as a key economic partner, with China ranking as Türkiye’s second-largest trading partner as of 2021.

He stressed the importance of expanding economic, trade, and investment cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, information technology, and artificial intelligence.

Türkiye also reaffirmed its commitment to aligning its “Middle Corridor” initiative with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to boost connectivity and trade between Asia and Europe.