Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Türkiye will continue to strengthen its relations with African countries on a foundation of equal partnerships, mutual respect, and win-win principles.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Niger’s President Abdourahamane Tchiani following talks at the Presidential Complex in the capital Ankara on Thursday, Erdogan reiterated Ankara’s commitment to deepening cooperation across the African continent.
“We continue to develop our relations with African countries on the basis of equal partnerships, mutual respect, and win-win principles,” said Erdogan.
The Turkish leader also voiced support for African nations confronting security challenges, particularly in the Sahel, which borders the Sahara Desert.
“We stand by our friendly and brotherly countries in the fight against terrorist groups that sow instability, especially in the Sahel region of the continent,” he said.
Tchiani was in the Turkish capital for talks with Erdogan on bilateral ties and regional issues.
Türkiye, Niger sign series of agreements
Türkiye and Niger signed a series of cooperation agreements following talks between Erdogan and Tchiani.
Among the agreements signed was the 2026-2030 implementation protocol of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in higher education between the two countries.
The protocol was signed by Higher Education Council Chairman Erol Ozvar and Niger's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad, Bakary Yaou Sangare.
Trade Minister Omer Bolat and Niger's Trade and Industry Minister Abdoulaye Seydou signed a joint declaration on the establishment of a Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO).
A protocol on the joint operation and transfer of the Niger-Türkiye Friendship Hospital was signed by Turkish Health Minister Kemal Memisoglu and Niger's Public Health and Hygiene Minister Col. Dr Garba Hakimi.
Another memorandum of understanding was signed between the Diplomacy Academy of the Turkish Foreign Ministry and Niger's National Institute for Diplomatic and Strategic Studies.
The agreement was signed by Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler and Nigerien Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare.
