MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, SERGEY LAVROV [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3_0n8vkBJU

FOREIGN MINISTER HAKAN FİDAN – Thank you.

Dear press members, it is a great pleasure for me to be in Moscow once again after an interval of one year. I’d like to express my gratitude to the Russian Government for the warm hospitality they extended during my visit.

I also thank esteemed Sergey and his delegation for this hospitality. As he stated, the last time we met with him, was at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. Since then, we have been in constant telephone contact as circumstances require.

The busy regional agenda in Turkish-Russian relations makes it necessary for us to make more frequent and detailed negotiations. Today, we discussed many topics related to our bilateral relations in detail with H.E. Lavrov. The relations between Türkiye and Russia are based on a deep-rooted historical background, strong economic bases, mutual trust and political dialogue established between our leaders at the highest level. Despite the risks caused by multiple conflicts and structural challenges threatening global peace and prosperity, our bilateral cooperation continues to progress positively.

During our meetings with my esteemed counterpart, we had the opportunity to discuss the steps to take in the coming period in many issues on our agenda including energy and trade. There is no doubt that it is very important to bring the conflicts in our region to an end in order to reach the real potential of our bilateral relations. In this framework, we have expressed our desire that the war in Ukraine, which has entered its fifth year, brought to an end as soon as possible and through peaceful means. I also reiterated that we are ready to host subsequent rounds of negotiations.

Our country’s main priority is for Russia and Ukraine to return to the negotiation table. If the parties agree, we are also prepared to discuss how the negotiations can be advanced in a more result-oriented manner. The recent escalation of war in Ukraine and the risk of its geographical expansion are sources of serious concern. Especially the increase in attacks on targets behind the front lines and the harmful effects of the attacks threatening the safety of navigation in the Black Sea on the interests of third parties require certain measures to de-escalate tension.

I also informed my esteemed counterpart of our expectation that measures be taken to prevent incidents that could undermine our country’s interests in the Black Sea. In this context, we exchanged views on the measures to be taken in order to ensure the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.

Dear press members, we appreciate and consider the agreement reached between the U.S. and Iran as an extremely important diplomatic milestone toward ending the climate of conflict in our region. As our President has also emphasized, our greatest hope is that this step, which relieves our region and the entire world, will evolve into a structural and lasting security architecture rather than merely a temporary state of peace. We hope that this agreement will be successfully carried to its final signing stage, be fully implemented, and evolved into a lasting diplomatic ground. During the delicate process up to the the final signatures, it is absolutely essential to avoid any rhetoric that might poison the climate of peace as well as any potential sabotage attempts of Israel aimed at derailing the process. We consider the political will demonstrated by the leaderships of the United States and Iran to be crucial in bringing about this outcome. We appreciate the mediation efforts of Pakistan, and note with satisfaction the support of Saudi Arabia for these diplomatic initiatives.

Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to safe, free and uninterrupted passage of all ships, just as it was before the war, is of vital importance not only for regional stability but also for global energy security and international trade. Our wish for the coming period is that this agreement will pave the way for a broader regional peace. Türkiye is working towards this end.

Dear friends, during our meeting with Mr. Minister today, we had the opportunity to discuss the recent developments in the South Caucasus in detail as well. On this occasion, we reaffirmed the importance of the stability and regional cooperation that the ongoing peace and normalization processes will bring to our region. We welcome the progress made in the peace and normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The steps taken during the process demonstrate that the peace which has been effectively established in the region is now being reflected on the ground. Increasing economic interaction, developing transportation and trade routes, and establishing partnerships in the fields of energy and logistics based on mutual benefit will serve as a guarantee of regional stability. We believe that the issues of the South Caucasus need to be addressed by the countries of the region and their immediate neighbours through dialogue and cooperation. As my counterpart has also stated, we think that the 3+3 Regional Cooperation Platform offers an important framework for cooperation in this scope.

Dear press members, during our meeting, we also reiterated our stance that the Palestinian issue must be resolved with a focus on the establishment of regional peace, stability and justice. The Palestinian issue is at the centre of all the conflicts in the Middle East. In order to maintain the ceasefire, to ensure uninterrupted access to humanitarian aid, and to establish stability in Gaza; we continue to contribute to diplomatic efforts to launch the reconstruction activities. It is clear that international efforts need to be intensified in order to prevent the destructive actions of Israel aimed at undermining the two-state solution, its ceasefire violations in Gaza, settler terrorism in the West bank, and its provocations in East Jerusalem. Israel’s occupations and attacks on Lebanon and Syria are also the phases of an ongoing project on weakening these countries and destabilizing the region. The region needs an approach which strengthens the possibilities for resolution instead of expanding the conflict zones. The principle that Türkiye has upheld from the very beginning is also clear: This region must no longer be a battleground for external interventions and destructive geopolitical rivalries. Countries in the region should take charge of their own future with collective wisdom, restraint and a sense of responsibility. This is precisely the essence of our vision for regional ownership. In this context, we believe that lasting security in the Middle East can only be established by jointly addressing the legitimate security concerns of all countries in the region. With this understanding, we will continue to support efforts to strengthen confidence building mechanisms among the countries in the region, to keep the political dialogue channels open, and to manage the crises through diplomacy. In this regard, Türkiye will never hesitate to take the initiative to strengthen peace and stability in our region.

Accordingly, Syria is one of the key issues from the perspective of regional stability. The progress made toward establishing and consolidating stability, security, and unity in Syria continues to be a source of hope at a time when the world is facing numerous regional and global crises. Türkiye will continue to act in solidarity with all the parties who intend to contribute constructively to the establishment of stability, security and economic development in Syria based on territorial unity and integrity.

Dear friends, Türkiye and Russia will continue to work together for the common interests of our countries and for the security, stability and prosperity of our region. I would like to thank H.E. Lavrov once again for the warm hospitality he extended to me.

QUESTION – [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/live/c3_0n8vkBJU?si=cdbpOxjGWBSXoYAB&t=924

MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, SERGEY LAVROV [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/live/c3_0n8vkBJU?si=H45O4jopYRVfj3cI&t=946

QUESTION – [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

Now, my next question is for Mr. Fidan. Ankara responds very harshly to terrorist attacks. So, why are the crimes committed by Zelensky in Starobilsk not judged? A bus carrying civilians was struck; a terrorist act was carried out in Starobilsk by the Ukrainian regime. FOREIGN MINISTER HAKAN FİDAN – Dear friends, as you know, a number of wars and conflicts have occurred in our region for years. We are making a great effort to put an end to these wars and conflicts, however, as these wars and conflicts continue, we approach an issue with utmost care, which our President attaches particular importance:we have never approved of the targeting of civilians or civilian residential areas regardless of the reason. From the very beginning, we have consistently condemned these acts as a matter of principle. We have always reacted to every issue brought to our attention, and we will continue to do so. Because this is something we have considered wrong from the outset.

QUESTION-

With your permission, I would like to ask a question to both Ministers. First, I will address a question to Minister Fidan regarding Iran. Sir, well, there is an agreement, a 60-day negotiation process is about to start. In fact, you also pointed out possibility of some sabotage attempts. There are strong indications that Israel has not accepted, or will not accept this agreement. I would like to ask: How will regional peace overcome the obstacle posed by Israel. You are also a mediator and involved in the process. I wonder your assessment on this issue.

FOREIGN MINISTER HAKAN FİDAN- Since the beginning, nearly all international actors have not only desired to achieve peace as soon as possible, but they also exerted pressure for that. Some exerted pressure openly, others covertly… Because, with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the world realized that this was not simply a regional problem, It is not just a matter between Iran and the United States or between Iran and Israel, indeed, it has become a matter concerning the entire world. We have witnessed a massive surge in energy and food prices, as well as across all sectors affected by petrochemicals; serious disruptions in supply chains; and, in the long term, economic instability which, in turn, triggered political instability and numerous security issues. Therefore, all the states which we engage have demanded that this agreement to be implemented as soon as possible, and everyone has supported that. Under the leadership of our President, we have made every effort at an incredible pace. This issue needs to be resolved so that we can work with the United States on the other problems including the situation in Gaza and the situation in Ukraine, which need to be addressed.

As you have stated, could Israel be playing a role in destabilizing or sabotaging the region? It is possible. That’s why we always state that Israel’s actions in the region are not just a problem for a few countries. this is a global issue and the entire world is aware of this. For the first time, a consensus is emerging worldwide regarding the dissipation of the illusion created by Israel. This consensus must now be transformed into a collective action through the necessary diplomatic methods. It will not be possible for Israel to take action when it sees that the whole world is engaged in a diplomatic action against itself. Countries must be sincere, call a wrong action as “wrong”, come together, and give the necessary response when a wrong step is taken. If that happens, Israel will not take any action. If not, “such-and-such country will protect me, so-and-so country will not say anything because of our history, I have made a backroom deal on trade with so-and-so country, so-and-so, in the elections…If such deals are made on many issues, of course Israel continues to make destabilization plans for the region, but countries will continue to suffer the consequences together. For this reason, we will continue to institutionalize a diplomacy which calls a wrong action as “wrong” with an international, transparent and clear diplomacy and responds to inappropriate actions.

QUESTION- With your permission, I’d like to ask Mr. Lavrov a question as well. Mr. Lavrov, you have already pointed out in your statements, but, I’d still like to ask a specific question regarding this equation involving the West, Ukraine and Russia. The European Union has recently taken new steps, including the decision to accelerate the membership negotiations in the Balkans and to launch a process with Ukraine and Moldova. How does Russia assess these new steps taken by the European Union in the Balkans and the Eastern Europe?

MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, SERGEY LAVROV [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/live/c3_0n8vkBJU?si=UOO2dCBbkH1Kl-es&t=1345

QUESTION – [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/live/c3_0n8vkBJU?si=5G3G3V1nzzl_X-5y&t=1536

MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, SERGEY LAVROV [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/live/c3_0n8vkBJU?si=UitApagZ-6Gm358-&t=1555

QUESTION – [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION] Türkiye wants to play a mediating role in the Ukraine crisis. Maybe Mr. Fidan is also informed of this invitation, I mean, are you invited to Paris for the G7 Summit to hold talks on the Ukraine issue?

FOREIGN MINISTER HAKAN FİDAN- No, we haven’t received an invitation.

QUESTION –My question is addressed to both ministers. My first question is for Türkiye’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Hakan Fidan. Mr. Minister, what role did Türkiye play in bringing the parties, the United States and Iran, back to the negotiating table? We know that you engaged in intensive diplomatic efforts in this process. You have likely made more than a hundred phone calls, we have witnessed this. What kind of landscape do you foresee in the region after the war, in which areas will Türkiye continue to insist on ensuring a lasting stability in the region?

FOREIGN MINISTER HAKAN FİDAN- Thank you.

As you know, Türkiye is an important and powerful country in the region. Therefore, the stance to be taken by Türkiye will truly make a difference in all issues. Our policy which promotes stability and prioritizes peace, put forward by our President, manifested itself in our region during the Iran war as well. Our efforts in this regard have not only been the result of our own personal efforts; they have also prompted our partners and brotherly nations, who value our stance, our views, and our actions to take action on this issue.

As you rightly pointed out, there have been a great many contacts regarding this matter; I don’t want to go into the details, but there have been many ups and downs. We were in constant communication, day and night, with our Pakistani and Qatari brothers, as well as with the Americans and Iranians; our Pakistani and Qatari brothers have made very serious efforts. However, the general desire in the region, regional leaders’ coming together and holding a teleconference with Mr. Trump—is actually a significant milestone because the countries in the region have now developed a reflex to express our joint stance on our region using a joint diplomatic language. As you know, we first proposed this before the Gaza Peace Plan was implemented. Now that the issue of peace with Iran has come to the table, our leaders spoke with Mr. Trump again via teleconference, emphasizing that we prioritize peace, that all necessary steps must be taken in this regard, and that he is capable of handling this matter... Indeed, President Trump demonstrated his determination, did not listen to Israel’s objections on this issue, and Iran responded positively to this determination, and they reached a conclusion. We hope that these technical negotiations will be concluded in the remaining 60-day period, without being affected by any sabotage, and that a climate of peace will finally prevail in our region.

So, what kind of regional order should be established in the post-war era? In this regard, It is essential for the countries of the region, together with other influential actors from outside the region, to come together and establish a framework on which all parties can reach a common understanding; one that safeguards the interests of everyone and contributes not only to the stability of the region but also to global peace and stability. The necessary conditions and groundwork for such an initiative are already in place. What is required is vision, courage, and a measure of determined leadership. Hopefully, Türkiye possesses the capability and the resolve to assume such a role.

QUESTION- My question is also directed to Mr. Lavrov. Mr. Minister, despite the genocide and occupation policies pursued by Israel against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank, the international community has not imposed sanctions on Israel comparable to those imposed on Russia due to the war in Ukraine. The term “double standard” is insufficient to explain this disparity. What are the main reasons behind this situation and how does Russia assess the absence of punitive measures against Israel and P.M. Netanyahu?

MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, SERGEY LAVROV [SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION]

https://www.youtube.com/live/c3_0n8vkBJU?si=LRxQ8KPMNm6QWtJx&t=1853

*Deciphered by Interpress- unofficial translation from the Turkish text.