Budapest: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has announced that the Russian-Ukrainian war is at a critical juncture towards a diplomatic resolution. Speaking at the informal meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Turkic Speaking States in Budapest, Fidan expressed hope that recent talks in Istanbul will lead to a comprehensive ceasefire and ultimately, a lasting peace.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan also addressed pressing regional issues, notably condemning the use of starvation as a weapon in the Gaza Strip by Israel. He called for the international community to take action against Israel to ensure regional peace and security, highlighting the humanitarian crisis where 2.4 million Palestinians are affected due to closed crossings since March 2.

Fidan further commented on the situation in Syria, noting positive developments resulting from Turkey’s diplomatic efforts and engagement with international actors. He urged support from the Organization of Turkic Speaking States for Syria, following recent announcements from the European Union and the US Treasury Department about lifting sanctions, which have been in place since 1979 and intensified in 2011 during the Syrian civil war.