Critical meeting in Riyadh tomorrow under the Mecca Agreement

Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, and Chief of General Staff Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu will participate in the meeting of the Strategic Political and Defense Committee, established under the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense, to be held on October 5 in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.

The main agenda items of the meeting will include the development of the alliance's institutional structure and the steps to be taken in the field of joint defense in the coming period.

TURKEY'S REGIONAL SECURITY MESSAGES

According to ministry sources, Fidan is expected to share Turkey's assessments regarding the progress the alliance has made to date. Fidan is also expected to convey his views on developments threatening peace and stability in the Middle East, as well as regional issues concerning the common security of allied countries.

Fidan is expected to point out that the progress the alliance has made in a short time is important for ensuring lasting stability in the region. It is planned to convey the message that the alliance can play a role in preventing regional crises, in addition to creating a joint and effective mechanism against existing threats.

HOUTHI ATTACKS ALSO ON THE AGENDA

Fidan is expected to reiterate Turkey's solidarity and support in the face of Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia. It is also anticipated that Turkey's stance that actions targeting holy sites or intended as provocations are unacceptable will be emphasized at the meeting.

MESSAGE TO "AVOID STEPS THAT WILL ESCALATE TENSION"

At the meeting, Fidan is expected to state that the resolution of regional disputes through peaceful methods should be a priority.

Fidan is also expected to emphasize the need to refrain from steps that could increase tension and to draw attention to the importance of protecting freedom of navigation on international trade routes.

Israel's attitude, which targets initiatives aimed at establishing peace and stability in the region, is also expected to be on Fidan's agenda.

News Source: İHA