Ankara: The Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has declared Turkey's readiness to back any initiatives aimed at bringing Russia and Ukraine back to the negotiating table, with the goal of achieving lasting peace. He emphasized Ankara's ongoing commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Kyiv.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Fidan shared his thoughts in a post on the "X" platform after his official visit to Kyiv. He remarked that the visit occurred during a period of growing strategic partnership between Turkey and Ukraine, expressing satisfaction with the deepening bilateral cooperation despite the ongoing conflict.

Fidan revealed that during his visit, he engaged in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, head of the Presidential Office, and Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha. The talks focused on bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, reaffirming Turkey's support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

He also highlighted the Ukrainian parliament's recent ratification of the free trade agreement as a pivotal moment, which is expected to open new opportunities for businesspeople and enhance the economic partnership between the two nations.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed appreciation to the Ukrainian President and authorities for awarding Fidan the Ukrainian Order of Merit, Second Class. This recognition was given for his efforts in strengthening cooperation and developing bilateral relations. The Ministry reiterated Turkey's commitment to furthering its longstanding friendship and strategic partnership with Ukraine, grounded in mutual trust and shared interests.