Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the importance of fully implementing all stages of the Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas. Speaking at a news conference in Ankara alongside Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, Erdogan highlighted the necessity for uninterrupted humanitarian aid to the enclave and insisted that the international community must ensure Israel meets its obligations as part of the three-phase truce, which began on Sunday.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan also reiterated Trkiye's commitment to establishing an independent, sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. He underscored the need for lifting international restrictions on Syria to facilitate its reconstruction, and discussed with Fico the potential for Slovakia to contribute to these efforts both bilaterally and within the EU framework.
During the discussions, Fico expressed hope for the realization of Trkiye's full EU membership aspirations, affirming Slovakia's full support. Erdogan also mentioned his intention to maintain strong relations with the United States under Donald Trump's presidency, highlighting Trump's commitment to swiftly resolving the Russia-Ukraine war. Erdogan stated that Trkiye is dedicated to peace and will engage in discussions with Trump on this matter.
In terms of bilateral relations, Erdogan announced that Trkiye and Slovakia have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership level, with signed agreements in areas such as the military, defense industry, and culture. The trade volume between the two countries, which was around $1 billion in 2019, has reached $3 billion in recent years, and Erdogan expressed confidence in achieving a shared trade goal of $5 billion soon.
Fico echoed this optimism, stating that the target is achievable given the current dynamics. Erdogan emphasized Trkiye's significant advancements in the defense industry over the past 20 years and discussed strengthening defense cooperation with Slovakia, a fellow NATO ally.
Regarding Trkiye's EU membership goals, Erdogan conveyed his belief that Slovakia will continue to support their aspirations. The leaders also addressed regional and global issues, including the war in Ukraine, agreeing on the need for a just and lasting peace before the conflict's effects further impact the region. Erdogan concluded by expressing confidence in the continued strengthening of Trkiye-Slovakia relations and their solidarity within NATO. Additionally, discussions on Slovakia's natural gas needs were planned, following Ukraine's halt of Russian gas flow to Europe through its territory.