FM Fidan meets UK Foreign Secretary Lammy in London

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.

Turkey is an indispensable ally to the UK.@HakanFidan and I are committed to strengthening our security and building business opportunities for British and Turkish people.

We continue that work today as we develop a Bilateral Cooperation Framework to drive forward progress. pic.twitter.com/rkzMQ48atd

— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) October 30, 2024

“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.