Türkiye and Moldova have explored ways to strengthen their economic and strategic partnership, with discussions focusing on expanding bilateral trade, defense industry cooperation, technology and mutual investment, Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat said on Thursday.

Bolat held talks in Ankara with Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization Eugen Osmochescu and Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatîi, who visited Türkiye to attend the first Türkiye–Moldova Defense Industry Cooperation Meeting.

According to the Turkish trade minister, the meetings focused on accelerating bilateral trade, deepening strategic cooperation in the defense and technology sectors, and encouraging greater two-way investment.

In a statement shared on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal, Bolat said the two sides reviewed concrete measures to further enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

He stressed that Türkiye remains committed to advancing its economic and strategic partnership with Moldova through a shared vision and strong political will.

Bolat described Moldova as a friend and strategic partner, emphasizing that the two countries are determined to build on their long-standing ties by translating political goodwill into practical cooperation.

"The two countries will continue carrying their long-standing relations into the future through concrete steps," he said.

The discussions also underscored the growing importance of defense industry collaboration between Ankara and Chisinau, as both countries seek to broaden cooperation in security-related technologies alongside expanding commercial and investment ties.

The inaugural Türkiye–Moldova Defense Industry Cooperation Meeting marks a new phase in bilateral relations, reflecting both governments' efforts to diversify cooperation beyond traditional trade and into high-value strategic sectors.

Türkiye and Moldova have steadily expanded their partnership in recent years through increased diplomatic engagement, trade, and economic cooperation, with both sides expressing interest in unlocking new opportunities in investment, innovation and defense industries. (ILKHA)