Skopje, 21 December 2024 (MIA) - From the very first moment of the country’s independence, there has existed an unwavering bond between Türkiye and North Macedonia. It is important to establish, strengthen and foster peace and stability of all countries in the Balkan region and to resolve all misunderstandings on the negotiating table with a mutual understanding between the parties, said the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of the Republic of Türkiye, Numan Kurtulmuş, who kicked off his three-day visit to North Macedonia on Saturday.

On Saturday, Kurtulmuş met with Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi. At a joint press conference after the meeting, Kurtulmuş said there is an upward trend in Türkiye’s relations with North Macedonia, especially in the field of trade, while also noting the intensifying of economic cooperation in the defense industry.

“Turkish tourists are among the most numerous foreign tourists visiting the country. Of course, Türkiye, through its investments, has realized numerous projects throughout the country, thereby contributing to the overall development of North Macedonia. As a country, we have left historical and cultural marks on all Balkan countries and consequently, we believe we should strengthen our cooperation and relations with all countries in the region,” Kurtulmuş said.

Pointing to the fact that numerous wars and conflicts are ongoing in the region surrounding Türkiye, Kurtulmuş voiced his hopes that all misunderstandings will remain in the past and all disputes will be solved peacefully, through mutual understanding.

He said Türkiye is ready to help strengthen the democratic capacities of the countries in the region. 

The Speaker of the Grand National Assembly also touched upon the war between Russia and Ukraine, calling for a just solution that would be acceptable for both parties.

“Since the very beginning of the conflict we have played a significant role in terms of mediation to ensure a swifter solution to this armed conflict. In Istanbul the parties had already reached an agreement, the draft text was initialed, but due to the fact that certain countries didn’t wish for the war to end, a peace treaty wasn’t signed. We will insist on acting with the same goal, to find a solution to this issue,” Kurtulmuş said.

Kurtulmuş expressed his regret over Friday’s missile attack on Kiev that damaged the building that houses the Embassy of North Macedonia.

He highlighted Türkiye role in the developments in Syria and urged an end to Israel’s “criminal acts” in Gaza.

“Türkiye played a role with the goal of realizing the change that happened in Syria after 61 years of regime rule. Additionally, it is high time to call for an end to the aggression and the criminal acts related to the genocide that Israel is perpetrating in Gaza, where nearly 50.000 people have been killed, 70 percent of which are women and children,” Kurtulmuş stressed.

At the press conference, Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi noted that mutual support is essential when it comes to strengthening North Macedonia’s position on the international stage.

“At the meeting, we addressed the joint challenges related to the realization of our strategic goal for EU membership. I am convinced that with the same dynamic and dedication we will remain side by side to fulfill this aspiration, which is our sole opportunity to ensure peace, development and prosperity for our citizens,” Gashi said.

Gashi highlighted the country’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Türkiye through various projects and initiatives that he said would benefit both countries and their citizens.

Photo: MIA