Turkish, Mauritanian Foreign Ministers discuss pressing matters

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed critical matters with Mauritania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Muhammed Salim Merzuk during a joint press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Istanbul Representation.

Minister Merzuk, said that natural resources, natural gas, renewable energy and green hydrogen in Türkiye are very important for his country.

Merzuk expressed that they have relations in diverse fields such as defense, security, transportation, health, education, agriculture and animal husbandry with Türkiye and discussed these topics today, noting that the relations between Moritania's President Muhammed Veled Gazvani and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan are excellent.

Highlighting the increasing trend in the trade volume between the two countries, Merzuk said that they discussed how to strengthen relations in every aspect with Fidan.

Merzuk emphasized the importance of Türkiye's advanced and vast opportunities in many fields for his country, saying: "Natural resources, natural gas, renewable energy, and green hydrogen in Türkiye are very important for Mauritania."

Merzuk stated that they agreed on convening the Joint Economic Committee between the two countries and that it would be held as soon as possible.

Emphasis on coordination between African Union, Türkiye

Merzuk pointed out Türkiye's support for Mauritania, mentioning that his country is the Chair of the African Union (AU) and that this issue was also discussed during his meeting with Fidan.

Merzuk indicated the goals within the African Union to contribute to peace internationally, achieve economic integration, and realize comprehensive development, expressing their desire to coordinate with Türkiye on these issues.

Stating their willingness to work for the development of the partnership between the African Union and Türkiye, Merzuk mentioned that they also discussed the Sahel region with Fidan.

Merzuk highlighted the various crises facing the Sahel region and the complexity of the situation there, stating that they can overcome the threats and challenges with local efforts and brotherly countries like Türkiye.

Humanitarian crisis in Gaza

Expressing concern about the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, Merzuk stated, "The Israeli occupation army is committing massacres, and there is a humanitarian crisis in Gaza."

Merzuk emphasized the need for a ceasefire in Gaza, allowing humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, and achieving permanent peace.

Minister Merzuk also drew attention to the issue of Islamophobia, stating that it is a very important issue and thanking Türkiye for its efforts in this area.

Source: AA