Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan affirmed that Turkey and Austria are committed to the two-state solution regarding the Palestinian issue, which is indispensable for achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. Speaking at a joint press conference with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, Erdogan stated that ensuring the continued delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, a matter of particular concern to the Austrian Chancellor, remains of paramount importance under the current circumstances.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Turkish President emphasized that guaranteeing Syria’s unity and territorial integrity remains Turkey’s primary objective, noting that Ankara appreciates Austria’s contribution to the Syrian reconstruction process. He added that he and the Austrian Chancellor exchanged views on regional and global issues and that he conveyed Ankara’s perspectives and expectations regarding Turkish-European relations to Chancellor Stocker, who is on an official visit to Turkey.

He further stated that he affirmed that the steps the European Union will take, particularly concerning the modernization of the Customs Union and the visa liberalization dialogue, are in everyone’s interest. The Turkish President stated that Ankara has significant potential for cooperation with Austria in the fields of green energy, bio-minerals, advanced technology, transportation, and the defense industry.

He continued, “We are pleased to see the positive momentum we have achieved in our relations with Austria reflected in our economic and trade relations as well.” Erdogan noted that he believes Turkey and Austria will achieve their target of $5 billion in trade this year, based on the trade volume of approximately $4.5 billion in 2025. He emphasized their ability to implement joint strategic cooperation that would strengthen the Middle East Corridor.

Erdogan reiterated that Turkey and Austria attach great importance to the continued stability of the Balkans. For his part, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker said that Turkey has a significant and influential voice in Middle Eastern affairs. Stocker added, “When we follow Middle Eastern issues, we see that Turkey’s voice carries weight and influence.” The Austrian Chancellor praised the efforts of Turkey and President Erdogan to end the nearly four-year-long Russian-Ukrainian war.