On January 28, 2025, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met in Riyadh to talk about bilateral ties and regional growth. With an emphasis on important regional concerns like Syria and defense cooperation, the meeting emphasized the two countries' growing relationship.
Bilateral Relations and Regional Issues
Fidan stressed the value of the Turkish-Saudi Coordination Council in strengthening bilateral ties and pursuing new cooperation opportunities during their talks. The council, which was founded in 2016, is an essential tool for strengthening the two nations' defense, trade, and cultural relations.
Syria and Sanctions
The Syrian issue was one of the main topics of conversation. In order to relieve sanctions on Syria, which have had a significant effect on the nation's economy and reconstruction efforts, both ministers emphasized the necessity of international cooperation. According to Fidan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are collaborating closely to have these sanctions lifted as part of their larger plan to stabilize the area.
Defense Cooperation
The gathering also focused heavily on defense ties. Saudi Arabia may buy warships, tanks, and missiles as part of a $6 billion defense agreement that Turkey is attempting to finish with the country. This agreement demonstrates how quickly Ankara and Riyadh's defense ties have improved over the previous two years.
Economic Cooperation
Enhancing bilateral trade, which reached about $8 billion in 2024, was another topic of discussion with the ministers. In order to demonstrate the expanding economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, they hope to raise this amount to $10 billion in the upcoming year.
Conclusion
Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Hakan Fidan's meeting demonstrates their shared commitment to advancing regional cooperation and tackling urgent concerns including Syria's defense cooperation and economic recovery. This visit is a major step toward improving Turkish-Saudi relations and fostering stability in the Middle East, according to Anadolu Agency and Al-Monitor.
Source: Saudi Gazette, Asharq Al-Awsat
