Istanbul:Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul for discussions on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional security concerns.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting was attended by key figures including Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Turkish Intelligence Chief Ibrahim Kalin, and Ukrainian Foreign Intelligence Chief Rustem Umerov.

Zelenskyy arrived in Istanbul earlier on a working visit, invited by President Erdogan. He announced on social media that the talks with Erdogan would focus on enhancing Ukraine’s security, deepening the partnership with Turkey, and exploring diplomatic opportunities. Additionally, discussions are expected to address maritime transport issues in the Black Sea.

The agenda also included a meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I in Istanbul, where Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to supporters of Ukraine. Burhanettin Duran, head of Turkey’s Presidential Communications Directorate, stated that the discussions would encompass bilateral cooperation and regional and international developments, with a focus on the Russia-Ukraine war and Black Sea security.