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French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Türkiye and France have important responsibilities in Gaza’s political transition process, highlighting close cooperation between the two countries on regional and global issues.
Barrot made the remarks during a joint news conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan following their meeting in Ankara.
Barrot said Türkiye is one of the guarantors of the ceasefire in Gaza and stressed the importance of ensuring the truce is upheld.
He also underlined the need to guarantee the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza through humanitarian corridors.
Referring to a declaration adopted in New York, Barrot said Türkiye and France would play key roles in the political transition process in Gaza within the framework of a two-state solution.
He added that Türkiye and France maintain constant and close communication, noting that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and French President Emmanuel Macron remain in regular contact, as do the two countries’ foreign ministers.
Barrot said counterterrorism remains a central pillar of bilateral cooperation, noting that both countries face significant threats, including the terrorist group ISIS.
He said developments in Syria were discussed, describing rapid changes on the ground.
Barrot also addressed Ukraine, saying France supports Türkiye’s participation in the Volunteers Coalition and backs increasing pressure on Russia, including efforts to curb Russian oil revenues and counter the so-called shadow fleet, which he said is particularly relevant for the Black Sea.
In the South Caucasus, Barrot said France supports normalization efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as between Türkiye and Armenia, stressing that reopening borders would contribute to regional prosperity and stability.
He said NATO cooperation was also discussed, noting that Türkiye will host the NATO Summit in July. Barrot added that France is ready to participate in a NATO exercise that could be held in Greenland.
Barrot said both countries are set to take on major global roles, noting that France will chair the G7 while Türkiye will host COP31.
He emphasized the importance of continued dialogue on biodiversity protection and combating climate change.
Barrot said bilateral trade exceeded 23 billion euros in 2025 and is expected to grow further. He said more than 400 French companies operate in Türkiye, providing employment for about 143,000 people, with investments totaling around €3 billion in recent years.
He described the Türkiye-France partnership as vital for Türkiye-European Union relations and Europe’s strategic autonomy, adding that despite differences of opinion, the two countries consistently seek compromise and cooperation.
Barrot also recalled France’s humanitarian assistance following the Feb. 6, 2023, earthquakes in Türkiye, praising progress in reconstruction efforts.
He noted that diplomatic relations between Türkiye and France span nearly 500 years and said dialogue with Fidan would continue within a shared sense of responsibility.
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