The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the second series of consultations between Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Africa will be held in Abu Dhabi on Monday, April 7, 2025. This meeting marks a significant step in the ongoing dialogue between the two nations regarding their interests in the African continent.
Co-chaired by the Turkish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Burhanettin Duran, and the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Shahbout ben Nahyan Al Nahyan, the discussions are expected to focus on recent developments in Africa. The talks will explore potential areas of economic cooperation and investment opportunities across the continent, highlighting the growing interest of both countries in enhancing their influence and partnerships in Africa.
The decision to hold regular consultations on Africa stems from a commitment made during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the UAE in February 2022. This visit was pivotal, as it followed a meeting between the foreign ministers of Turkey and the UAE, where they recognized the importance of establishing a structured dialogue to address mutual interests in Africa.
During the first series of Turkey-UAE consultations on Africa, held in Ankara on October 10, 2023, both parties laid the groundwork for future collaborations. The outcomes of that meeting set a precedent for this upcoming session in Abu Dhabi, where participants are expected to build on previous discussions and outline actionable steps for cooperation.
As Africa continues to emerge as a focal point for global investment and development, the consultations reflect a broader trend among nations seeking to enhance their economic ties with African countries. Both Turkey and the UAE have been actively pursuing partnerships across various sectors, including infrastructure, technology, and trade, as they aim to tap into the continent's vast potential.
In recent years, Turkey has increased its diplomatic presence in Africa, establishing numerous embassies and engaging in various development projects. The country views Africa as a critical partner in its foreign policy strategy, aiming to strengthen its economic footprint through investments and trade agreements.
Similarly, the UAE has positioned itself as a key player in African development, leveraging its financial resources and expertise to foster growth in various sectors. The UAE's strategic investments in African nations have included infrastructure projects, renewable energy initiatives, and agricultural development, reflecting its commitment to supporting sustainable growth on the continent.
The upcoming consultations in Abu Dhabi are anticipated to yield concrete proposals and initiatives that will further solidify the Turkey-UAE partnership in Africa. With both nations recognizing the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges such as economic disparities and development needs in Africa, the discussions will likely cover a wide range of topics, from trade policies to investment strategies.
Moreover, the consultations will provide an opportunity for Turkey and the UAE to align their efforts with African nations' priorities and aspirations. By engaging in meaningful dialogue, both countries aim to contribute positively to Africa's development trajectory while enhancing their bilateral relations.
As the world watches closely, the outcomes of the consultations on April 7 will be crucial in shaping the future of Turkey and the UAE's involvement in Africa. The commitment to regular dialogue signifies a long-term strategy to foster cooperation and mutual benefit, underscoring the importance of Africa in the global geopolitical landscape.
In conclusion, the upcoming Turkey-UAE consultations in Abu Dhabi highlight the growing significance of Africa in international relations. With both nations eager to explore new avenues for collaboration, the discussions promise to pave the way for a stronger partnership that could lead to meaningful economic and developmental progress across the continent.
