Skopje, 16 April 2026 (MIA) - President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova in Istanbul held a bilateral meeting with the President of the Republic of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, at which it was noted that Macedonian-Turkish relations are characterized by strong friendship, trust and continuous mutual support, her office said Thursday afternoon.

“First, the President expressed condolences to President Erdoğan for the victims of yesterday’s shooting at a secondary school in Türkiye, wishing a speedy recovery to those injured. Türkiye has always been our close friend and has offered assistance in the most difficult moments, such as the tragedy in Kochani and we stand in solidarity with the Turkish people,” Siljanovska-Davkova said, according to the press release.

At the meeting with Erdoğan, she pointed out that through its institutions and companies - from TIKA, which has implemented 1,320 projects, to the Maarif schools, the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Center, Turkish Airlines, and Halkbank - Türkiye is present in many areas of Macedonian society.

“Through the signing of the joint political declaration on the establishment of a High-Level Cooperation Council, the presidents acknowledge an opportunity for more dynamic and structured bilateral cooperation, which will lead to the holding of the first intergovernmental session,” reads the press release.

Siljanovska-Davkova welcomed the Turkish diplomatic initiative – the Balkan Peace Platform – describing it as an important instrument for strengthening regional dialogue and stability. 

She also expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s long-standing support in the modernization of the Macedonian Army.

Both sides agreed that there is a room to further increase trade exchange and investments, viewing the announced business forum in Türkiye as a valuable opportunity to advance economic cooperation.

Discussions at the meeting also focused on the status of the Turkish community in social and political life, particularly in terms of fair and equitable representation, along with the functioning of some educational institutions.

“The presidents expressed confidence that the challenges facing the Turkish community in our country will be overcome. Siljanovska-Davkova invited President Erdoğan to pay an official visit to the country,” reads the press release.

The President Siljanovska-Davkova is currently visiting Türkiye to attend the 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026).

Photo: President Siljanovska Davkova's Office