Istanbul: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Monday that achieving peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict is crucial for the stability and security of the region. He emphasized the importance of strategic cooperation among Trkiye, Azerbaijan, and Georgia in maintaining regional security.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan addressed a joint press conference at Ciragan Palace in Istanbul after the 10th Trilateral Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Trkiye, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Alongside his Azerbaijani and Georgian counterparts, Jeyhun Bayramov and Maka Botchorishvili, Fidan expressed concern over the current stalemate in both battlefield and diplomatic efforts.
Fidan pointed out the severe consequences of recent attacks in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, expressing condolences to Azerbaijan for the loss of life. He highlighted the evolving trilateral mechanism as a results-oriented platform that fosters trust across the region and has contributed to political dialogue, economic integration, and stronger people-to-people ties over the past 14 years.
The Turkish foreign minister underscored the significance of energy security and the Middle Corridor, noting that geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties have heightened the value of regional cooperation. He pointed out that joint energy infrastructure projects have helped shield the region from global energy crises, with the Middle Corridor playing a key role in regional integration.
Fidan also expressed support for the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, describing it as a promising example of regional cooperation. He stressed the importance of addressing Azerbaijan’s legitimate concerns and signing a peace agreement promptly. He added that Trkiye’s normalization process with Armenia continues in coordination with Azerbaijan.
Despite positive developments in the South Caucasus, Fidan warned of serious risks in the broader regional security environment. He mentioned ongoing Iran-US negotiations and the importance of preventing conflicts that could have global repercussions.
Fidan expressed concerns over deteriorating maritime security in the Black Sea as the Russia-Ukraine war expands, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire. He highlighted Trkiye’s role in facilitating the Black Sea Grain Initiative and stressed the importance of ensuring civilian vessels are not targeted.
Fidan argued that regional cooperation models like the one established with Azerbaijan and Georgia could be applied in other regions to promote peace and stability. He suggested similar frameworks be pursued in the Balkans and the Middle East to achieve regional cooperation and development.
In conclusion, Fidan thanked his Azerbaijani and Georgian counterparts for advancing an exemplary model of regional ownership and cooperation. The meeting concluded with the signing of the Istanbul Declaration by Fidan, Bayramov, and Botchorishvili.