Turkish foreign minister heads to North Macedonia for security, trade talks

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is set to visit North Macedonia on Thursday as part of Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Fidan will meet with North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi and his counterpart, Timco Mucunski, to discuss a range of issues including the fight against the FETO terrorist organization and strengthening bilateral security ties.

Security and counterterrorism on agenda

The discussions will primarily focus on Türkiye’s fight against FETO, as well as broader security concerns.

Fidan is expected to present Ankara’s expectations in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing the need for stronger cooperation in this area. Other topics on the table include the expansion of military and defense industry relations between the two nations.

Recently Türkiye donated various military equipment to North Macedonia.

Boosting economic ties and trade relations

Economic cooperation will also play a key role during the meetings.

Türkiye and North Macedonia aim to strengthen collaboration in sectors such as construction, energy, and infrastructure. The current trade volume between the two countries stands at $1 billion, and both sides are targeting an increase to $2 billion through a series of joint projects.

Strengthening cultural and historical ties

In addition to security and economic discussions, Fidan will meet with Turkish members of the North Macedonian Parliament, leaders of Albanian political parties, and representatives of the Turkish community in North Macedonia.

Issues concerning the Turkish community in the country will be raised, with both sides highlighting the deep historical, cultural, and human ties between Ankara and Skopje.

Regional and global developments

Fidan’s visit will also include exchanges on regional and global developments, with a focus on enhancing the strategic partnership between Türkiye and North Macedonia.