Turkish, French parliamentary committees hold talks on bilateral relations
Chair of the Turkish Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee Fuat Oktay holds a meeting with Delegation of the French Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Armed Forces in Ankara, Turkiye on October 10, 2024. (AA Photo)
Fuat Oktay, Chairman of the Turkish Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Justice and Development Party (AK Party) MP for Ankara met with a delegation from the French Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense and Armed Forces on Thursday.
The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, international cooperation, and current global crises.
Emphasis on strengthening Turkish-French relations
During the meeting held at the Turkish Parliament, Oktay highlighted the longstanding positive relations between Türkiye and France, expressing the desire to further enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, including economy and trade.
“It is important to maintain direct and regular dialogue. Economic and trade relations are among the strongest aspects of our bilateral ties,” Oktay stated.
Parliamentary diplomacy key tool
Oktay also emphasized the role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering stronger relations between the two nations. He noted that mutual visits and open communication between parliamentarians would greatly benefit diplomatic relations.
Discussion on key global issues
Oktay outlined the topics discussed, including Türkiye’s relations with the European Union, the fight against terrorism and irregular migration, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the situations in Cyprus and Karabakh.
French delegation highlights Türkiye’s role in global affairs
Speaking on behalf of the French delegation, Senator Christian Cambon acknowledged Türkiye’s significant role in international relations. He also presented a letter from French Senate President Gerard Larcher to the Speaker of the Turkish Parliament, Numan Kurtulmus.
