Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Tuesday that he will begin a diplomatic tour of regional countries starting Wednesday to discuss potential measures to halt the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. His remarks were made during a joint press conference in Ankara with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, following their meeting at the Foreign Ministry.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan expressed grave concerns over political assassinations targeting Iranian officials and political figures, labeling them as 'illegal acts outside the normal laws of war' that must cease immediately. He warned of the expanding war in Lebanon and its increasing complexity in Iraq, emphasizing Trkiye's continuous efforts to alleviate what he described as 'the calamity of war hanging over the Islamic world.'
Fidan stated that the upcoming diplomatic tour seeks to deliver messages from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and to share Trkiye's insights and recommendations on achieving lasting regional peace. He highlighted the serious security risks posed by US and Israeli attacks on Iran, stressing the necessity of sustained dialogue to prevent further escalation.
He also mentioned holding discussions with numerous Western and Eastern counterparts, exchanging views, and evaluating recent developments. "Our goal is the same: a geography where everyone lives within their own borders in security and sovereignty, where Palestinians have their own state, and where Iran, Arabs, and all of us live in peace, stability and security," Fidan asserted.
The Turkish foreign minister underscored Trkiye's commitment to monitoring developments in Gaza and Lebanon closely, working with allies to implement the Gaza Peace Plan. He highlighted discussions with Canadian Foreign Minister Anand regarding the situation in Palestine and Lebanon, underlining the continuing tragedies in Gaza and ceasefire violations by Benjamin Netanyahu's government.
Fidan stressed that Israel should not be allowed to exploit new crises to undermine efforts for a just and lasting solution in Palestine, and cautioned against the escalation of Israel's ground operation in Lebanon into an occupation. He warned about the potential displacement of 800,000 people in Lebanon, which could lead to a long-term refugee crisis, and reaffirmed Trkiye's support for international calls to end the occupation.
He also mentioned that the Middle East conflict should not disrupt Russia-Ukraine peace efforts, indicating Trkiye's readiness to host the next round of negotiations.
On the topic of Trkiye-Canada relations, Fidan noted that he and Anand exchanged views on bilateral relations and areas for progress. "Although geographically distant, we are two longstanding allies sharing the same vision for global peace and stability," he said, praising Anand's visit for advancing constructive dialogue.
Fidan shared that preparations for Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's planned visit to Trkiye are underway, viewing it as a critical milestone that will enhance cooperation. He commended Carney for positive shifts in foreign and economic policy and highlighted the model relationship between Carney and Erdogan, centered on shared vision and global peace.
He further noted that bilateral trade reached $2.7 billion in 2025 and is poised for further growth, with steps being taken to bolster energy cooperation, particularly in nuclear energy. Fidan stressed the importance of including non-EU allies in the EU's defense initiatives, ensuring they complement NATO's activities.
Canadian Foreign Minister Anand praised Trkiye's role as an interlocutor in the Middle East conflict, emphasizing Canada's condemnation of Iran's retaliatory strikes and its stance alongside regional partners. She reiterated Canada's focus on de-escalation and civilian protection, stating that it will not participate in US and Israeli attacks on Iran.
Anand announced Canada's provision of $37.7 million in aid to Lebanon, which will be channeled through multilateral organizations, in response to the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict. She pointed to the pressing need for meaningful engagement between Lebanon and Israel to achieve a sustainable political solution.
Anand also discussed Trkiye-Canada cooperation in nuclear energy and critical minerals, highlighting opportunities for partnership. She noted the strong ties between the two countries, including Canadian staff at the NATO base in Izmir and the significant presence of Canadians of Turkish origin in Canada.