Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently engaged in separate discussions with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev, focusing on regional security, bilateral relations, and international developments. These conversations underscore Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to bolster partnerships with neighboring countries.
During his phone call with President Aliyev, Erdoğan expressed Türkiye’s dedication to enhancing cooperation with Azerbaijan, noting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. The conversation coincided with the 35th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s Restoration of Independence, for which Erdoğan extended his congratulations. He also invited Aliyev to participate in the 13th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, slated to occur in Ankara.
In his dialogue with Prime Minister Radev, Erdoğan highlighted the importance of strengthening trade relations between Türkiye and Bulgaria. A significant topic of discussion was the diplomatic efforts to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea, a region currently affected by tensions involving Russia and Ukraine. Erdoğan conveyed Türkiye’s interest in working collaboratively to address these challenges.
Additionally, Erdoğan expressed his concerns following a drone attack within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, offering his condolences and well-wishes to Radev. As part of their conversation, Erdoğan extended an invitation to Radev to attend the upcoming COP31 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for November 11–12 in Antalya, Türkiye, aiming to further engage on climate-related issues.