ANKARA: Trkiye has set its sights on significantly enhancing its trade relationship with Africa, with a goal of reaching a $50 billion trade volume, a substantial increase from the $5.4 billion recorded in 2003, according to the country's vice president. This announcement came during a meeting with Lesotho's Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane in Ankara. According to Anadolu Agency, the trade between Trkiye and the 54 African nations has seen a remarkable increase, growing from $5.4 billion in 2003 to $37 billion in 2023. Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz highlighted Turkish investments in Africa, noting a $10 billion contribution by Turkish investors and the execution of 1,977 projects worth $91.6 billion by Turkish contractors. Yilmaz pointed out the significant surge in trade with Sub-Saharan Africa, from $1.35 billion in 2003 to $12.4 billion in 2023. He emphasized the role of Turkish contractors in the region, who have completed 445 projects valued at $26.7 billion. Acknowledging the previously limited trade and investment ties with Lesotho, Yilmaz expressed optimism for growth following Prime Minister Matekane's visit. The vice president described the visit as historic, signaling the highest-level engagement from Lesotho to Trkiye, and anticipated it would lead to stronger bilateral relations and increased high-level interactions. He reiterated Trkiye's dedication to supporting Africa's development, emphasizing a partnership grounded in brotherhood. Yilmaz also mentioned Turkish Airlines' extensive network, with flights to over 60 African destinations, and the presence of Turkish institutions and foundations on the continent. He noted the expansion of Trkiye's diplomatic presence, with embassies increasing from 12 in 2002 to 44 today, and highlighted President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's efforts, having visited 31 African countries, including plans to extend the diplomatic network to Lesotho's capital, Maseru. Prime Minister Matekane acknowledged his delegation's observations of Trkiye's advancements in indu stry and technology, expressing interest in applying this model for economic transformation in Lesotho. He noted the importance of his visit and the discussions held to strengthen the bilateral relationship. Matekane outlined strategic cooperation areas, including trade, investment, agriculture, energy, education, capacity building, tourism, and culture, along with collaboration on migration and labor. He announced the mutual decision to establish diplomatic missions, stating Lesotho's commitment to realizing this initiative.