Moscow: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Tuesday highlighted the critical importance of maintaining safe, free, and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz for regional stability, global energy security, and international trade. Speaking alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov after discussions in Moscow, Fidan welcomed the recent agreement between the US and Iran, describing it as a significant diplomatic milestone with the potential to ease regional tensions.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan expressed hope that the agreement would proceed to the final signing stage and evolve into a permanent diplomatic framework. He stressed the importance of avoiding rhetoric that could disrupt the peace process and cautioned against potential sabotage attempts by Israel. Fidan acknowledged the significant role played by US and Iranian leaders in reaching the agreement and appreciated Pakistan's mediation efforts, along with support from Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Fidan emphasized that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to all vessels is crucial not only for regional stability but also for global energy security and international trade. He expressed hope that the agreement could pave the way for a broader regional peace process and affirmed Ankara's commitment to supporting such initiatives.
On the topic of the Russia-Ukraine war, Fidan reiterated Trkiye's readiness to host future negotiation rounds and expressed concern over the recent escalation in the conflict. He highlighted the importance of ensuring navigation safety in the Black Sea and preventing incidents that could harm Trkiye's interests.
Fidan also addressed Israel's actions in Lebanon and Syria, condemning them as part of a project to destabilize the region. He called for increased international efforts to prevent Israel's actions undermining the two-state solution and ceasefire violations in Gaza. Fidan stressed the need for addressing all countries' legitimate security concerns to achieve lasting security in the Middle East.
The Turkish foreign minister emphasized the need for a unified diplomatic response to Israel's actions, arguing that a growing international consensus against Israel's policies should be transformed into collective action. Fidan called for institutionalizing diplomacy that addresses wrongdoings and urged countries to respond collectively to violations of international norms.