Erdogan holds key talks with Libya, Burundi and Slovenia at Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Erdogan held separate meetings with the leaders of Libya, Burundi, and Slovenia at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and discussing regional and global issues. He stressed inclusive political dialogue in Libya, expanded economic and defence cooperation with Burundi, and deepened trade and political ties with Slovenia. The talks also covered regional conflicts, EU relations, and broader international stability.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with leaders from Libya, Burundi, and Slovenia during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in southern Türkiye. The engagements took place on the second day of the forum, an international gathering that brings together heads of state, diplomats, and policymakers to discuss global political, economic, and security issues.
Erdogan met separately with Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh, Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye, and Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar. Each meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations as well as exchanging views on regional and international developments. The meetings were held in Antalya at the hotel where Erdogan is staying, and were attended by senior Turkish officials, including ministers responsible for energy and natural resources, national defence, intelligence, and communications, reflecting the strategic importance Türkiye attaches to these discussions.
In his talks with the Libyan leader, Erdogan emphasized the importance of an inclusive political process in Libya, stressing that no initiative can succeed unless it is supported by broad participation from Libyans themselves. He reiterated Türkiye’s continued backing for Libya’s political stability and transition process and highlighted Ankara’s intention to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. These include economic engagement, security collaboration, and the protection of shared interests in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Erdogan also addressed wider regional tensions, warning that what he described as Israel’s aggressive actions could have serious consequences for global stability. He added that Türkiye is working alongside regional partners to help maintain ceasefire arrangements and support broader peace efforts.
During his meeting with President Ndayishimiye of Burundi, Erdogan focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and the defence industry. He highlighted the importance of strengthening economic ties between the two countries and building more structured partnerships in key sectors. Erdogan also reiterated Türkiye’s ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and expressed appreciation for Burundi’s supportive position on the issue. He further congratulated Burundi on its upcoming role as chair of the African Union in 2026, describing it as an important responsibility for the country within the continental body.
In his discussions with Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar, Erdogan placed emphasis on expanding cooperation in trade, infrastructure development, and economic relations. He acknowledged Slovenia’s recognition of the State of Palestine and its support for related United Nations resolutions, as well as its decision to impose an arms embargo on Israel. He described these positions as significant within the international diplomatic landscape. Erdogan also reaffirmed Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to European Union membership, describing it as a strategic objective for the country, while urging the EU to adopt a more forward-looking and constructive approach in its relations with Türkiye. In addition, he underscored the importance of strengthening defence industry cooperation among NATO allies and extended an invitation to Slovenian representatives to attend an upcoming defence industry fair in Istanbul.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum itself, hosted under Erdogan’s patronage and organised by Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has become a major platform for dialogue on international affairs. The 2026 edition of the forum runs through Sunday and is centred on the theme “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties,” reflecting growing global concerns about instability, shifting alliances, and emerging geopolitical challenges. The event has drawn leaders and senior officials from across the world, making it a key venue for diplomatic engagement and multilateral discussions on issues affecting global peace, security, and development.