Türkiye’s Fidan Discusses Counterterrorism Efforts During Niger Visit
Niamey, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan revealed that during his recent visit to Niger, significant discussions took place on combating terrorism, which he identified as the primary source of instability in the Sahel region.
“We discussed what could be done to advance the defence industry and intelligence capacity within the framework of counterterrorism in Niger, as we have done in Somalia. We also discussed what steps we will take against terrorism, which is the main source of instability in the Sahel region,” Fidan told reporters in the Nigerien capital, Niamey.
Accompanying Fidan at the news conference were Turkish National Defence Minister Yasar Guler, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, National Intelligence Organisation chief Ibrahim Kalin, and other officials.
Fidan highlighted Türkiye’s extensive diplomatic presence in Africa, noting embassies in 44 out of 54 African countries. “Our partnership policy with Africa is progressing and becoming more institutionalised every day. Our joint efforts with African countries in areas such as diplomacy, economy, finance, security, defence, education, and health are intensifying.”
He emphasized Türkiye’s historical ties with Niger, dating back to the Ottoman Empire, and recent efforts to strengthen bilateral relations structurally. “As we develop our relations with Africa, we are implementing initiatives that prioritise the benefit and welfare of the local people, our brothers. Peace, security, and stability in Africa are also among our priorities. As you know, the problems of instability and terrorism in the Sahel region have become increasingly chronic,” he added.
During their stay in Niger, the Turkish delegation met with Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine, ministers, and institutional leaders. They conducted three working groups, engaging in detailed discussions on foreign policy, security, defence, energy, mining, economy, and trade.
The delegation was also received by Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger’s President of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland. They assessed the outcomes of their meetings and agreed on a series of joint steps.
Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s policy of sharing counterterrorism expertise with friendly nations, underscoring terrorism as a significant challenge for African countries. “We evaluated how to further advance activities in the fields of education and health, such as the Friendship Hospital and Maarif Schools scholarships,” he said.
Further discussions focused on enhancing economic and financial cooperation, increasing Turkish investments, and strengthening contractual trade frameworks. Productive talks on energy and mining led to agreements to boost cooperation and investment in these sectors.
Fidan concluded, “We will systematically follow up on the decisions made. The issues scheduled on the agenda will be implemented in coordination with our relevant ministries and institutions. I hope our visit will be beneficial for both countries.”
