The Balkans are not only strategically important for Turkey, but also represent a priority region filled with deep cultural and human ties. This was stated by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during the first edition of the “Balkan Platform for Peace“, held in Istanbul, Anadolu Agency reported, BTA reports.
“Stability in the Balkans is of great importance not only for Europe, but also for peace and security in neighboring regions“, Fidan said at a press conference.
The meeting, organized by Turkey, was attended by the foreign ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, as well as the deputy foreign minister of Albania.
Fidan stressed that the Balkans are a strategic crossroads between Europe, the Middle East, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, and stability in the region is possible through enhanced cooperation and dialogue between the countries.
„The Balkan Peace Platform“ is a new initiative to create a practical and effective framework that encourages honest dialogue and regular contacts. „Our goal is to transform the meaning of the word „Balkans“ not as a symbol of division, but as an example of solidarity and joint development“, emphasized the Turkish Foreign Minister.
Fidan assured that the initiative does not aim to replace existing processes, but to complement them. „We offer a framework that supports the efforts of the international community, especially the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina“, he added.
During the meeting, the participants discussed political developments in the region, energy security, transport connectivity, capacity building and specific joint projects. "We cannot leave our future to chance or in the hands of others," Fidan concluded.