Ankara:Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has clarified that the “Mecca Pact” is meant for defense rather than offense, and Turkey will not deploy troops to another country’s territory for offensive operations.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan spoke during a joint press conference with Hungarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Anita Orbán, emphasizing that the pact involves supporting a member state when attacked, not initiating attacks.

Fidan participated in a meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss the attacks on Saudi Arabia, highlighting key institutional issues like the military headquarters’ structure and the appointment of a new Secretary-General, which are crucial for the pact’s framework.

He also mentioned discussions with Pakistan on defense against Houthi attacks from Yemen targeting Saudi Arabia. Fidan stressed the importance of resolving conflicts through peace and dialogue, despite ongoing support for the legitimate Yemeni government by Saudi Arabia.

Regarding the pact’s submission to Parliament, Fidan confirmed that preparations are complete, with a decision made to present it to Parliament urgently.

Fidan also addressed the Russia-Ukraine war, stressing efforts to keep the Black Sea free from conflict and citing Turkey’s adherence to the Montreux Straits Convention and the Black Sea Grain Initiative as part of these efforts. He warned against the expansion of hostilities into the Black Sea and the risks posed to civilian vessels in the region.