Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron in a phone call on Friday, discussing bilateral relations as well as pressing regional and global developments.

According to a statement from the Turkish Presidency, the two leaders exchanged views on Türkiye-France ties and cooperation within NATO, as well as the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

During the conversation, President Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to securing a just and lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. He emphasized that Türkiye, having previously facilitated direct negotiations between the warring parties, stands ready to contribute to future peace talks, including hosting discussions between Russian and Ukrainian representatives.

Erdoğan underscored the necessity of a negotiation process that does not exclude either side, stressing that inclusive diplomacy is essential for a sustainable resolution to the war.

Turning to developments in the Middle East, Erdoğan firmly rejected proposals to relocate Palestinians to Egypt, Jordan, or any third country, labeling such plans as unacceptable. He reiterated Türkiye’s stance on ensuring the protection of Palestinian rights and maintaining stability in the region.

As leaders of two key NATO allies, Erdoğan and Macron agreed to enhance coordination and cooperation in the coming period. Their conversation highlighted the importance of maintaining strategic dialogue to address shared security and geopolitical challenges.

The call comes amid ongoing diplomatic engagements by both leaders as they seek to navigate complex global issues, including the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East. (ILKHA)