Turkey Strengthens Ties with Africa Through Diplomacy and Defense

Turkey's foreign minister will visit Djibouti to discuss enhancing cooperation between Ankara and Africa, focusing on trade, diplomatic efforts, and military support. The meeting aims to develop strategies to improve collaboration following a 2021 conference. Turkey seeks stronger influence in Africa, competing with major powers and offering military resources.

Next week, Turkey's foreign minister will travel to Djibouti to participate in a Turkey-Africa ministerial meeting aimed at enhancing cooperation between Ankara and African nations. The initiative reflects Turkey's ambition to deepen ties on the continent, focusing on expanding trade and providing diplomatic and military assistance.

According to ministry officials, the Djibouti meeting, scheduled for Nov. 2-3, will evaluate progress since a 2021 conference. It comes amidst Turkey's mediation in the Somalia-Ethiopia maritime dispute and West Africa's terrorism challenges. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will meet with representatives from 14 African countries to chart a course forward.

Turkey's recent agreement with Niger on mining and its strategic defense alliances show its growing presence in Africa, competing with France, Russia, and China. Turkish armed drones and military training aim to boost national security and counterterrorism efforts in several nations, including Burkina Faso and Somalia.

(With inputs from agencies.)