Photo: Press service of the Office of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Ukraine is ready to ratify the Free Trade Agreement with Turkey, which may take place during the upcoming visit of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This was stated by Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting with Turkish ministers and business representatives.
The meeting took place on Thursday, 13 March, and became an important step in strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between Kyiv and Ankara.
What did you discuss?
Rebuilding Ukraine – Turkish construction companies are already implementing about 100 projects in war-torn cities.
Security guarantees – countries that become guarantors of Ukraine’s security will be given priority in post-war reconstruction.
Cooperation in the production of drones – Turkey and Ukraine have common interests in developing the latest unmanned technologies.
Trade growth – trade between the countries has already reached $6 billion, but the goal is $10 billion.
Ratification of the Free Trade Agreement
The main outcome of the meeting was the confirmation of Ukraine’s readiness to ratify the free trade agreement with Turkey. The document is expected to be approved during Erdogan’s visit.
“We see Turkey as one of our strategic partners. Turkish business has been and remains in Ukraine, and we are grateful for the support,” Zelenskyy said.
Peace initiatives and the role of Turkey
The Ukrainian president also noted that Ukraine has already made its step towards a 30-day ceasefire, and now Russia must prove its readiness for peace.
“We want a just and lasting peace, and Turkey can contribute to achieving this goal,” Zelenskyy stressed.
Ankara has repeatedly mediated in the negotiations, and its role in a future peace settlement could be crucial.
