Türkiye supports peace efforts in Ukraine: FM Fidan
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Peter Szijjarto (not seen) speak during a joint press conference following their meeting in Ankara, Türkiye on March 21, 2025 (AA Photo)
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to both a cease-fire and comprehensive peace talks in Ukraine, speaking at a joint press conference with Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto following a meeting at Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Türkiye reaffirms support for cease-fire talks
Addressing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Fidan stated, “We, as Türkiye, will continue to support both the cease-fire and comprehensive peace talks.” He emphasized Türkiye’s longstanding support for peace efforts, adding, “We have supported the peace and cease-fire talks led by the U.S. from the beginning.”
Fidan noted that the Russia-Ukraine conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and destruction, and reaffirmed Türkiye’s position alongside Hungary to address the crisis on international platforms, particularly within NATO.
“We are pleased to see the new U.S. administration pushing this agenda forward, which is a positive development for both our region and humanity,” Fidan said. “We hope that a lasting cease-fire will be reached as soon as possible.”
Efforts for peace continue amid crisis
The Turkish foreign minister expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a temporary cease-fire and stressed that discussions are ongoing about the specifics of security guarantees and peace monitoring mechanisms.
“We are hopeful that Russia will agree to a temporary ceasefire of at least 30 days,” Fidan said.
Fidan also mentioned ongoing diplomatic efforts, including regular online meetings involving President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and European leaders, to explore solutions to the crisis.
“We will continue to provide all necessary support for both the cease-fire and comprehensive peace negotiations,” he added.
Israel’s actions criticized
Turning to the Gaza situation, Fidan criticized Israel’s actions, particularly in violating cease-fire agreements. “Israel broke the ceasefire agreement by blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. In recent days, Israel has killed hundreds of Palestinians, effectively beginning genocide again,” Fidan stated.
He went on to say that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has “no interest in peace, stability, international law, or humanitarian values,” and that Israel’s aim is to subjugate the Palestinian people and displace them.
“The Palestinian issue poses a risk of escalating regional and global problems. Türkiye will continue to stand with the Palestinian people.”
Stronger ties with Hungary
In addition to addressing international issues, Fidan spoke about the growing bilateral relationship between Türkiye and Hungary.
“We are determined to deepen our strategic partnership in the coming period,” Fidan said. He also highlighted that 2024 was designated as the Türkiye-Hungary Cultural Year, and 2025 will be the Türkiye-Hungary Science and Innovation Year.
“Our goal is to foster new collaborations in areas ranging from trade to energy, defense, and scientific research,” he added.
Fidan pointed out that trade relations between the two countries were strong, with bilateral trade reaching $4.5 billion and a target of $6 billion set by their respective leaders.
He also noted that over 500 Turkish companies are operating in Hungary across various sectors.
Türkiye and EU relations
In his remarks, Fidan also underscored the importance of Türkiye’s relationship with the European Union, particularly in matters of European security.
He stressed that Türkiye’s capabilities could significantly contribute to the security, stability, and prosperity of Europe. “We believe that all steps taken for European security should be planned together with Türkiye for our mutual benefit,” Fidan concluded.
Syria and regional stability
Fidan touched on Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding Syria, noting that recent discussions with Syrian officials focused on the country’s political transition and the situation with the YPG terrorist group. “Our goal is for the agreements reached to be fully implemented,” he said, adding that Türkiye is committed to supporting Syria’s territorial integrity and political stability.
He also emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism and the prevention of terrorist groups like Daesh from regaining strength in the region.
Fidan expressed his hope for the eventual establishment of a transitional government in Syria that would promote peace and stability.
