Erdogan, Slovak PM Fico meet in Ankara for diplomatic summit
President Erdogan greets Slovakian Prime Minister Fico with an official ceremony in Ankara, Türkiye on 20 January, 2025. (AA Photo)
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico arrived at the Turkish Presidential Complex Monday for an official state visit, where he was welcomed with full ceremonial honors by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The formal welcome began with mounted horsemen escorting Fico’s motorcade to the protocol entrance. President Erdogan personally greeted the Slovak leader at the main entrance of the complex.
During the ceremony, military bands performed the national anthems of both nations. The event featured a traditional 21-gun salute and a special display of flags representing historical states, highlighting the ceremonial significance of the visit.
The two leaders exchanged formal introductions of their respective delegations before posing for official photographs on the steps of the complex, with both countries’ flags serving as a backdrop.
The visit’s agenda includes bilateral discussions, a signing ceremony for new agreements, and a joint press conference. Erdogan will host an official dinner in honor of the Slovak prime minister later in the evening.
Key members of Türkiye’s Cabinet were present at the ceremony, including the ministers of foreign affairs, culture and tourism, energy, defense, trade and transportation. Senior presidential advisers and the governor of Ankara also attended the event.
