Doha: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is undertaking a two-day visit to Qatar, marking a significant step in enhancing the strategic partnership between Ankara and Doha.
According to Anadolu Agency, diplomatic sources revealed that Fidan's meetings are expected to explore new avenues for cooperation and address the burgeoning relationship in various sectors.
A key focus of the discussions will be the preparations for the 11th session of the High Strategic Committee meeting. This session is scheduled to be held in Doha under the leadership of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The talks will also cover regional issues, with particular emphasis on the situations in Gaza and Syria.
Fidan's visit will evaluate recent international efforts concerning the recognition of the State of Palestine. He is anticipated to express Turkey's support for Qatar's mediation efforts in collaboration with Egypt and the United States to secure a cease-fire in Gaza. Additionally, Fidan will emphasize Turkey's readiness to back any constructive initiatives aimed at achieving peace.
The agenda includes discussions about the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza and potential steps to halt what Turkey describes as Israel's inhumane actions. The aim is to advance the two-state solution. As the current Chair of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation's Council of Foreign Ministers, Fidan will also discuss the upcoming OIC meeting, initiated by Turkey.
Further talks will assess joint efforts to establish stability and security in Syria. Fidan will likely highlight the importance of ongoing collaboration between Turkey and Qatar in Syria and express concerns over actions by certain actors, particularly Israel, that could destabilize the region.
This visit marks Fidan's third trip to Qatar this year, following previous visits in February and April. Earlier this year, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani visited Turkey, further solidifying the ties between the two nations.
The High Strategic Committee serves as the pinnacle of Turkey-Qatar relations, with annual meetings alternating between the two countries since 2015. The most recent meeting took place in Ankara in November 2024, with the next session anticipated in Doha later this year. The relationship between Turkey and Qatar continues to strengthen, particularly in trade, investment, contracting, tourism, and energy sectors.