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Erdoğan Discusses Turkey-Italy Relations and Regional Issues After Official Visit
Following his visit to Italy, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan addressed journalists, including Milliyet Newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief Özay Şendir, and shared insights regarding the Turkey-Italy Fourth Intergovernmental Summit that took place with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Erdoğan expressed warm greetings to the press and highlighted the productive discussions on bilateral relations, regional, and global issues. Together with Prime Minister Meloni, they co-chaired the summit, where both nations’ ministers participated, making significant decisions to deepen cooperation across various fields.
“During the summit, we successfully closed the Business Forum alongside Prime Minister Meloni, with numerous entrepreneurs from both countries in attendance. Over ten agreements and understandings were signed between our companies and those of Italy,” Erdoğan stated. He noted the desire to enhance defense industry collaborations through new partnerships, emphasizing Baykar’s recent agreements with Italian firm Leonardo.
The discussions culminated in setting a goal to increase bilateral trade from $30 billion to $40 billion. Erdoğan expressed confidence that this target could be achieved in the near future.
Further, during his time in Italy, Erdoğan met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, where they discussed joint steps to strengthen bilateral cooperation. He also extended an invitation to both President Mattarella and Prime Minister Meloni to visit Turkey.
Addressing questions about Turkey’s position in Africa, Erdoğan acknowledged Italy’s offer for collaborative efforts on the continent, indicating that cooperation in Africa, especially in defense, was viable. “We have actively engaged with African countries on trade, investment, humanitarian aid, and diplomacy, and we look forward to expanding our collaborative ground with Italy and other Western nations in Africa,” he remarked.
In terms of defense, Erdoğan confirmed that potential joint projects exist, particularly noting Turkey’s advancements in high-tech industries. Regarding the ongoing threat of PKK terrorism, he stated that intelligence operations are ongoing, aiming for a “terror-free Turkey.”
He also responded to questions surrounding recent media controversies in Turkey, specifically regarding claims made by the opposition about unethical practices in government. Erdoğan emphasized that such actions do not reflect the integrity of his administration.
Internationally, Erdoğan addressed concerns about the ongoing Iraq-Syria conflict and relationships with Israel, underscoring Turkey’s commitment to regional stability as they navigate security concerns and humanitarian crises.
Finally, Erdoğan emphasized Turkey’s determination to support Turkish Cyprus and stated that they would never leave it in a vulnerable position, calling for international acknowledgment of its rights and status.
In conclusion, Erdoğan reiterated Turkey’s focus on cooperation and development amid regional complexities, reflecting on historical ties and optimistic projections for future partnerships, particularly with Italy.
