Istanbul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced his intention to hold phone talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and US counterpart Donald Trump this week to discuss the possibility of organizing a meeting between the two leaders in Istanbul. This initiative is part of Ankara’s efforts to revive communication and dialogue channels regarding international crises.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan made this announcement during a press statement following Friday prayers in Istanbul’s ‚¬¦€š¬…€œskudar district. He highlighted that Turkey had met with the Ukrainian delegation in Ankara before their departure for Istanbul and that he had personally communicated with President Putin. Erdogan expressed hope in facilitating a meeting between Putin and Trump in Istanbul.
In addition to these diplomatic efforts, Erdogan addressed the issue of forest fires sweeping across several Turkish regions. He noted that fires are still active in forests across Eskisehir, Karabk, Safranbolu, Antalya, and Usak. The state is deploying all available resources to combat these disasters, with 27 aircraft, 105 helicopters, 6,000 ground vehicles, and over 25,000 firefighters and emergency personnel actively engaged in extinguishing the fires.
Tragically, Erdogan announced the deaths of 10 individuals, including five firefighters and five volunteers from the AKUT Rescue Organization, who perished while battling the fires in Eskisehir, northwest Turkey. He praised their bravery and sacrifices, extending condolences to their families.
On another front, Erdogan spoke of his participation in the IDEF 2025 International Defense Industry Fair, emphasizing Turkey’s emergence as a significant player in the global defense industry. He remarked on the rapid growth of Turkey’s industrial capabilities, noting the increase in the defense industry’s value from an estimated $20 billion to $80 billion since his government came to power. Erdogan expressed aspirations to double this figure and bolster Turkey’s global standing.
Erdogan underscored the importance of an independent defense industrial power, stating that without it, a country’s ability to withstand international challenges remains limited. He reaffirmed Turkey’s determination to build this force independently.
Istanbul is currently hosting the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), with participation from the Turkish Ministry of Defense, supported by the Presidency of Defense Industries, and managed by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation. The event, organized by KFA Fairs, is taking place from July 22 to 27.