Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with Turkey's Minister of Trade, Ömer Bolat, Turkey's Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Ibrahim Yumaklı, and representatives of Turkish businesses.
The President thanked them for the visit and noted that it was the result of agreements made during his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara.
Volodymyr Zelensky informed them about Ukraine's efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace. Ukraine has taken its step toward a 30-day ceasefire. Now, Russia must prove its commitment to peace. Turkey can play a role in this process.
Additionally, the development of bilateral relations was discussed in detail during the meeting.
“We consider Turkey one of our strategic partners. We are very grateful that Turkish businesses are already represented in Ukraine,” said the President.
The President highlighted companies that began operating in Ukraine before the full-scale Russian invasion and thanked them for supplying the "Bayraktars."
Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that over the past three years, Ukraine has developed its own production of various types of drones and is interested in cooperation in this area, as well as in the participation of Turkish companies in Ukraine's reconstruction.
“Countries that will guarantee security for Ukraine will have priority in terms of reconstruction after the war ends. We consider Turkey one of the partners in providing security guarantees for Ukraine,” the President noted.
Furthermore, the President confirmed Ukraine’s readiness to ratify the Free Trade Agreement with Turkey during President Erdoğan's upcoming visit.
Ömer Bolat added that the trade volume between the countries amounts to 6 billion dollars. According to him, this figure is expected to increase to 10 billion dollars. He also noted that Turkish construction companies are currently implementing about 100 projects in Ukraine.
“Economic relations between Turkey and Ukraine will develop in many sectors: energy, construction, and more,” said the Minister of Trade.
The Minister of Agriculture and Forestry confirmed interest in developing cooperation in the agricultural sector, as Ukraine plays an important role in ensuring global food security.
