Ukraine FM Sybiha praises Türkiye’s peace role
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha speaks during an exclusive interview as part of the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, of which Anadolu Agency (AA) is the Global Communications Partner, at the NEST Congress Center in the Belek tourism region of Antalya, Türkiye, on April 12, 2025. (AA Photo)
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha praised Ankara’s role in peace initiatives and emphasized the strategic nature of Türkiye-Ukraine relations during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2025.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency on the sidelines of the forum held at the NEST Congress Center in Belek, Sybiha acknowledged Türkiye’s contributions to Black Sea stability, economic cooperation, and ongoing diplomatic efforts amid the Russia-Ukraine war.
‘Türkiye-Ukraine ties are a win-win relationship’
Sybiha underlined the multifaceted and expanding nature of bilateral relations: “Türkiye-Ukraine relations are a win-win relationship. There are many opportunities we need to develop and work on. Our cooperation spans from the air to the ground.”
He emphasized the growing partnership, particularly in the field of security, and noted that interaction between the people and business communities of both nations is deepening.
Türkiye praised for role in peace diplomacy
Stressing the importance of Türkiye’s mediation efforts, Sybiha said, “In the context of peace initiatives, the role of Türkiye and personally President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is very valuable. We attach great importance to it and hope it continues.”
He added that Ukraine seeks a “just, sustainable, inclusive, and lasting peace” and expects continued support from international partners like Türkiye.
Sybiha also highlighted the success of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, facilitated by Türkiye, noting its positive impact on Ukraine’s food exports and economy.
War’s economic toll and Ukraine’s rebuilding plans
Sybiha noted that Ukraine has retaken about half of the territories occupied since the beginning of the war, but around 20% of Ukrainian territory remains under occupation.
He reported the economic toll of the conflict:
- Estimated daily cost of war: $220 million
- Infrastructure damage: $600 billion, according to World Bank data
Considering the scale of damage, there will be major reconstruction and rebuilding projects in the future. We would be glad to see Turkish companies participate,” Sybiha
Despite the challenges, Sybiha said Ukraine’s economy continues to grow: “Thanks to controlled inflation, sustained production, and ongoing exports, our economy has grown by 3 to 5 percent.”
He also noted a significant increase in defense production: “During the war, we have increased our defense industry output sixfold.
