Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Visits Turkey
Russian Federation Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is set to visit Turkey on 24 February 2025, according to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During his visit, Lavrov will meet with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara to discuss various bilateral cooperation issues including trade, energy, and tourism.
The meeting is expected to focus on finding diplomatic solutions to end the war in Ukraine and achieving a fair and permanent peace. Discussions will also include recent contacts between the US and Russia, with a focus on the role Turkey can play in facilitating direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in the near future.
In addition to discussing regional and international issues such as Syria and the Middle East, the two foreign ministers will emphasize Turkey’s commitment to eliminating terrorist elements from Syria and maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity.
Fidan is also expected to address Israel’s aggressive actions threatening Syria’s territorial integrity and call for increased efforts to promote stability in the region through reconstruction projects.
Furthermore, Fidan will highlight the importance of maintaining a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, increasing humanitarian aid deliveries to the region, and advocating for the rights of Palestinians to return to their homes. He will stress that lasting peace in the Middle East can only be achieved through a two-state solution.
Lavrov’s previous visit to Turkey was in October 2024 for the 3+3 Regional Cooperation Platform Meeting. Ahead of his upcoming visit, Fidan met with Lavrov in Johannesburg on February 20th to discuss mutual interests and cooperation opportunities.
