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Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna: Türkiye is a strong partner with whom we share a common understanding of security and international order

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

31.10.2025 | 18:41

Today, 31 October, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna was on an official visit to Ankara, where he met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Fuat Oktay, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Turkish Grand National Assembly.

"Estonia and Türkiye are good partners and Allies with strong ties in defence cooperation," said Minister Tsahkna. "Türkiye plays an active role in defending NATO's eastern flank, including participation in the Baltic Air Policing mission at Ämari, where we expect Turkish aircraft to be deployed next autumn."

The Minister added that Estonia remains committed to the European Union's enlargement policy and reaffirmed Estonia's support for constructive dialogue between the EU and Türkiye, including modernising the customs union. "Closer cooperation between Türkiye and the European Union would help strengthen Europe's overall defence capability," Tsahkna stated.

The meetings focused on Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine and ways to increase the cost of that aggression. "Russia has shown no sign of wanting to end its aggression, continuing brutal attacks against Ukrainian civilians and provoking NATO member states," Tsahkna emphasised. "As Allies, we must continue to exert economic and political pressure on Russia and provide comprehensive support to Ukraine. Last week, the European Union adopted a robust 19th sanctions package targeting Russia's energy, transport, and financial sectors. Work is already underway on the next package, which will focus on restricting Russian fossil fuel exports."

Regarding the situation in the Middle East, Minister Tsahkna commended Türkiye's efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. "For the first time in a long while, there is a real opportunity to end the violence, improve the daily lives of civilians, and build trust between Israel and Palestine. Estonia's position remains that the only sustainable solution is the creation of two independent states," Tsahkna said, adding that the immediate priority is ensuring humanitarian aid reaches all those in need.

Recent developments in the South Caucasus and Syria were also discussed. The Minister acknowledged Türkiye's role as a mediator in the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and its support for stabilising Syria. The meeting also explored opportunities to strengthen economic and tourism cooperation between Estonia and Türkiye.