Türkiye is a trusted actor in Africa: Deputy FM Duran

Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran stated that Türkiye is considered a reliable partner in Africa, underlining that its approach is based on equality and mutual benefit rather than colonial legacy.

Speaking to the Anadolu Agency at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), Duran emphasized the institutionalization of the event, which hosted over 6,000 participants from 155 countries this year.

“The Antalya Diplomacy Forum, held under the auspices of our President and led by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, allows voices that often go unheard in other global platforms to be heard,” he said.

‘Africa made a significant contribution to ADF with 82 high-level participants’

Noting strong African engagement, Duran said, “Africa once again made a significant contribution to this year’s Antalya Diplomacy Forum with 82 high-level participants.”

He added that Türkiye’s Africa policy focuses on solving problems alongside African partners, saying, “Türkiye pursues a policy based on mutual benefit and searching for solutions to Africa’s problems with Africans themselves.”

Economic partnership and investments

Highlighting the fruits of Türkiye’s partnership model, Duran said the trade volume with Africa has increased from $3.6 billion to $36 billion.

“Our businesspeople, NGOs, Yunus Emre Institute, Maarif Foundation, Turkish Airlines, TIKA, and the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities have all contributed to this inclusive policy,” he stated.

He noted that Turkish investments in Africa have surpassed $92 billion. “Türkiye is seen as a trusted actor in Africa. Why? Because we establish equal relations and do not come from a colonial background,” he added.

Peace and mediation in Africa

Duran emphasized that Türkiye values regional integration in Africa and cooperates with organizations such as the African Union.

“Türkiye also contributes to peace in Africa through mediation activities. In 2024, the Ankara Declaration was signed between Somalia and Ethiopia,” he recalled.

He stated that the first meeting between the two countries took place in February and another round of talks is planned. “This integrated foreign policy under our President’s strong leadership is making a significant impact in Africa. When Türkiye says it will do something, it delivers,” he said.

‘Diplomacy over conflict’

Duran stressed the importance of dialogue: “Creating a platform where global issues can be discussed more effectively, opening it up to everyone, and enabling people to come together and embrace diplomacy over conflict or war was very important.”

“Participants from Western countries followed closely what was happening here. I believe the messages that needed to be delivered were indeed conveyed and received,” he added.