Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed the importance of continuing the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, defining it as key for the survival of the two million Palestinians and for the stability of the region. He made this statement during a joint press conference with the Swedish Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Justice – Maria Malmer Stenergård and Gunnar Strömer, BTA reports.
The briefing, held at the Turkish Foreign Ministry, was part of a meeting within the framework of the Turkey-Sweden Security Mechanism.
Turkey-Sweden Security Cooperation
Fidan recalled the importance of the negotiations during the process of Finland and Sweden joining NATO. Turkey reached an agreement with both countries on the principles of combating terrorism, reflecting its security concerns. The first meeting of the Security Mechanism, which was held in Ankara on January 21, was attended by representatives of key institutions such as the National Intelligence Organization, the Ministry of Interior and the Gendarmerie General Command.
Fidan noted that the meeting was initially scheduled for an earlier date, but was postponed due to an incident with the Swedish delegation.
Historical and diplomatic ties between the two countries
Last year, Turkey and Sweden celebrated 100 years of diplomatic relations. During the talks in Ankara, the two countries' determination to strengthen cooperation with each other was reaffirmed. Fidan described Sweden as an important partner and ally for Turkey, stressing the importance of maintaining dialogue and expanding partnership relations.