Baku: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has highlighted the strategic partnership between Trkiye and Azerbaijan as a guiding example for other member countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). Erdogan, speaking to journalists on his return flight from Azerbaijan, expressed gratitude towards Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and the Azerbaijani people for their hospitality during his visit, which coincided with the commemoration of Azerbaijan's Independence Day on May 28.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan elaborated on the collaboration between the two nations, indicating that they are developing partnerships across various sectors such as defense, energy, agriculture, and livestock farming. He emphasized the intention to enhance cooperation with Azerbaijan, particularly in ensuring food supply security. Erdogan noted that this strengthened alliance serves as an inspiration for other OTS member states, with plans to prioritize these countries in areas where Trkiye has surplus production. He stressed a collective approach to production and resource sharing among the brotherly nations.
Erdogan also addressed the Zangezur Corridor's significance, which serves as a land connection between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan and a route extending to the Turkic world via Trkiye. He expressed expectations for Iran to support initiatives that promote regional peace, stability, and development.
On the subject of international diplomacy, Erdogan welcomed the prospect of resuming peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. He highlighted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's proposal for a second round of discussions in the city, which he believes could reignite the Istanbul peace process. Erdogan remains committed to pursuing peace, maintaining communication with both Russia and Ukraine, and urging all parties involved to seize the opportunity for a lasting resolution.
Regarding the situation in Syria, Erdogan reiterated his stance on maintaining the country's territorial integrity and national unity amid the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces with the new government in Damascus. He called for the cessation of delaying tactics by the Syrian Democratic Forces and emphasized the importance of implementing the agreed-upon decisions.
Erdogan further announced that Turkish Petroleum has secured an agreement to explore two onshore fields in Pakistan, with plans for offshore natural gas exploration set to commence soon.