Minister Fidan shares update on third round of Russia-Ukraine talks

In a post on his social media account, Minister Fidan stated, "In line with our efforts to establish lasting peace in our region, we hosted the third round of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. We are grateful to the parties for their trust in our President and our country. During the meetings, it was decided to take additional steps regarding the exchange of prisoners of war and soldiers' remains, as well as the mutual return of civilians and children to their home countries."

Announcing that an agreement had been reached on the exchange of a group of prisoners of war, consisting of at least 1,200 people from both sides, Minister Fidan said, "An agreement was reached on the exchange of another group of prisoners of war, with at least 1,200 people from both sides. The delegations also discussed steps that could be taken to intensify technical talks on a ceasefire and to bring their positions closer together. Furthermore, they decided to work on the idea of establishing working groups on political, humanitarian, and military issues. Looking at the process as a whole, we have observed with satisfaction that the negotiations are progressing in a more constructive and results-oriented direction."

Emphasizing that negotiations are processes that must be conducted with patience, Minister Fidan said, "Negotiations are a process that must be conducted with patience. Every new achievement brings the parties one step closer to peace. Another brick has been added to the construction of a common will by the parties on the path to a solution. The interest and support of the international community for the meetings held in Istanbul under our country's facilitation is also a reflection of the longing for peace at a global level. Our country, which has been striving for a solution since the first day of the war, will continue to work for the establishment of lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine."