Paris: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will embark on an official visit to France tomorrow, where he is set to engage in discussions with his French counterpart, Jean-No«l Barrot. The visit underscores a commitment to strengthening bilateral relations amid a backdrop of pressing regional and international challenges.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Tuesday outlining the agenda for Fidan's visit. High on the list of topics to be discussed are Turkish-European relations and pressing international issues such as European security, the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict, and the developing situations in Gaza and Syria. The minister aims to reinforce the importance of maintaining a robust dialogue between Turkey and France, particularly in enhancing mutual trade, investment, and cooperation across key sectors including energy, transportation, tourism, technology, culture, and education.

In addressing issues impacting Turkish nationals in France, Fidan is also expected to call for a decisive stance against racist and extremist movements. The visit will serve as a platform for Fidan to convey Turkey's perspectives on enhancing collaboration in the defense industry, advocating for the removal of export restrictions, and fostering an effective partnership in the fight against terrorism.

The Turkish Foreign Minister will urge France to facilitate smoother relations between Turkey and the European Union, highlighting the need for clear actions to enhance Turkey's role in European security, and to contribute to a new European security framework. He will also express Turkey's readiness to aid in establishing lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of allied cooperation in achieving this goal.

Fidan is expected to stress the need for international cooperation in addressing terrorism, particularly focusing on eliminating the presence of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and its affiliates in northern Syria, and supporting efforts against ISIS. Additionally, he will advocate for increased engagement with Syria's new administration and the full lifting of sanctions on Damascus to promote stability in the region.

Finally, Fidan will highlight the necessity for the international community to address Israel's regional security threats and alleged human rights violations in Gaza, urging for decisive international action.