Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung held extensive talks in Ankara on Monday. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation across trade, defence, technology, and several emerging sectors. Officials from both countries described the discussions as productive and forward-looking.
Erdogan said the leaders reviewed bilateral relations in detail. He noted that the agenda covered defence, artificial intelligence, energy, semiconductors, and other priority fields. The two sides also signed a memorandum on plasma technology. He said this agreement would open new avenues for scientific collaboration.
Erdogan stated that current bilateral trade exceeds ten billion dollars. He added that both countries aim to raise the figure to fifteen billion dollars. Türkiye will offer full support to South Korean investors seeking opportunities in the country. He said Ankara and Seoul will continue strengthening ties through a win-win approach.
The Turkish president highlighted the potential for deeper defence cooperation. He said this cooperation could advance through reciprocal training and increased investment. He also confirmed ongoing discussions with relevant institutions on establishing a clean power plant. He said this initiative reflects a shared commitment to sustainable energy.
Erdogan expressed hope that successful defence collaboration would boost national capacities and contribute to regional stability. He welcomed South Korea’s decision to establish diplomatic relations with Syria. He described the move as a pleasing development that could support broader regional engagement.
He said both nations support maintaining the Gaza ceasefire. He added that they back efforts to prevent civilian casualties and pursue a two-state solution. On Ukraine, Erdogan said Türkiye will continue supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at securing lasting peace. He stressed the relevance of the Istanbul talks in this effort.
Erdogan said Ankara sees strong potential for cooperation with Seoul in Iraq, Africa, and Central Asia. He also mentioned possible joint roles in reconstruction efforts in Syria, Gaza, and Ukraine. On Sunday, President Lee said both countries are bound by shared history. He noted that South Korea and Türkiye fought side by side to defend freedom and democracy.
