Antalya Diplomacy Forum Emerges as Global Platform for Crisis Dialogue, Says Hakan Fidan

Antalya, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Sunday described the Antalya Diplomacy Forum as a vital global platform for addressing pressing international crises, highlighting Türkiye’s growing role in diplomacy and mediation.

Speaking at the closing press conference of the three-day forum held in the southern Turkish city of Antalya, Fidan said the event brought together 23 heads of state and government, 13 deputy leaders, and 50 ministers, alongside representatives from 150 countries and 66 international organizations.

“Over three days, Antalya once again became a center where the pulse of global diplomacy was felt,” Fidan stated, noting that more than 6,400 participants engaged in 52 sessions covering global challenges from Asia-Pacific to Latin America, Europe, and Central Asia.

Fidan said Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and senior Turkish officials held numerous bilateral meetings on the sidelines, while several high-level diplomatic engagements took place during the forum.

Quadrilateral Regional Dialogue

The Turkish foreign minister confirmed that Türkiye hosted a quadrilateral meeting with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, focusing on regional stability, economic cooperation, and maritime security.

He dismissed speculation that the talks aimed at forming a military alliance, emphasizing instead a shared vision for peace and development.

“We are not forming alliances against others. We are seeking how to end conflicts, advance economic progress, and ensure stability in our region,” Fidan said.

Iran-US Talks and Ceasefire Efforts

Fidan noted that Türkiye is closely monitoring ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States, with Pakistan playing a mediation role.

“We have reached a critical stage in the talks. Both sides are continuing negotiations with serious intent,” he said, expressing optimism that the ceasefire would be extended amid strong international support.

Gaza Crisis and Regional Concerns

Addressing the situation in Gaza, Fidan said a separate meeting of six Muslim countries reaffirmed their commitment to achieving lasting peace.

He criticized Israel’s policies, warning that developments in Gaza have evolved into a broader global security concern. He stressed the need for sustained diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation and improve humanitarian conditions.

Russia-Ukraine War

On the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s readiness to host further peace talks.

“The war entering its fifth year must end. We are ready to host meetings again, whether at the technical or leadership level,” he said, cautioning against diminishing global attention on Ukraine.

South Caucasus Peace Process

Fidan also highlighted progress in negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, expressing optimism about a potential peace agreement.

He noted that normalization between the two countries could enhance regional connectivity, particularly through strategic projects such as the Middle Corridor and the Zangezur corridor linking Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhchivan.

Lebanon and Regional Stability

The foreign minister warned that escalating military operations in Lebanon risk further destabilizing the region, citing mass displacement and humanitarian concerns.

“This is not only a humanitarian issue but also a serious threat to regional stability,” he said.

Expanding Engagement in Africa

Fidan underscored Türkiye’s expanding diplomatic footprint in Africa, highlighting a dual strategy focused on economic cooperation and conflict resolution.

He pointed to Türkiye’s support for counterterrorism efforts in Somalia, cooperation with Nigeria, mediation efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia, and engagement in peace processes in Libya and Sudan.

Energy Security and Connectivity

Fidan emphasized that recent tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have underscored the need for alternative energy and transport routes.

He said projects linking the Gulf region through Syria and Türkiye to global markets are gaining importance, alongside discussions on rail and land connectivity with Saudi Arabia.

Middle Powers and Global Governance

Highlighting the evolving nature of global crises, Fidan said middle-power countries are increasingly coordinating efforts to manage complex international challenges.

He noted Türkiye’s growing cooperation with countries such as Japan, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada.

Forum as a Platform for Global Dialogue

Fidan said the forum also addressed emerging global challenges such as artificial intelligence, critical minerals, food security, climate change, and geopolitical competition.

“At a time when polarization is replacing dialogue, the Antalya Diplomacy Forum has become a rare platform for hope, dialogue and solutions,” he said.

Reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to diplomacy, Fidan concluded: “We will continue to diversify cooperation, build trust, and bring parties closer together. Türkiye’s attraction as a diplomatic center will continue to grow.”