Erdogan hails Türkiye’s foreign policy success in Syria during talks with Orban

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Thursday that recent developments in Syria demonstrate the effectiveness of Türkiye’s foreign policy. He also stressed the importance of EU cooperation on counterterrorism and Syria’s reconstruction.

Erdogan made the remarks during a meeting in Ankara with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to discuss bilateral relations and regional and global issues, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate.

The Turkish president emphasized that recent events in Syria highlight the accuracy of Türkiye’s humanitarian and ethical foreign policy. He called for closer cooperation with EU countries on counterterrorism, Syria’s reconstruction, and the reform of existing institutions.

Erdogan also noted that both Ankara and Budapest are committed to strengthening their longstanding bilateral relations, which have surpassed 100 years. He underscored the need to increase efforts to raise trade between the two countries to $6 billion.

“I am pleased to host Prime Minister Orban and his delegation for the closing ceremony of the 2024 Turkish-Hungarian Cultural Year,” Erdogan said. He also expressed interest in expanding cooperation in various areas, particularly in energy.

‘Türkiye will continue to support Syrian people’

In a separate meeting, Erdogan spoke with Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok, where they discussed bilateral relations and global issues. Erdogan stressed that Türkiye and Hungary aim to deepen their strategic partnership and enhance cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields.

Erdogan also highlighted the importance of Hungary’s support in revitalizing Türkiye’s EU membership process and thanked Hungary for its contributions to the Organization of Turkic States as an observer member.

“Türkiye will continue to support the Syrian people in their efforts to rebuild their country, while preserving Syria’s unity and territorial integrity,” Erdogan concluded.