UPDATE - Turkish president, UK premier discuss bilateral ties, regional, global issues

ADDS STATEMENT BY UK PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE; REVISES DECK

By Esra Tekin and Burak Bir

ISTANBUL / LONDON (AA) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday discussed bilateral relations, as well as regional and global issues, said Türkiye's Communications Directorate.

Erdogan received Starmer in Baku, Azerbaijan on the sidelines of the UN Climate Change Conference COP29 World Leaders Summit.

"President Erdogan stated that efforts will continue to develop relations between Türkiye and the UK and to increase the trade volume," said the directorate on X.

The Turkish leader also said Ankara's efforts are ongoing to end conflicts in the region, particularly in Ukraine, Lebanon, and Palestine.

In the meeting, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Communications Directorate officials were also present.

According to a statement by the UK Prime Minister's Office, Starmer also gave his condolences following the deadly terror attack that targeted a defense industry facility in Ankara last month.

Starmer reiterated that the UK stands with Türkiye against terrorism.

On bilateral ties, he said that the UK is keen to continue to collaborate with Türkiye on the clean energy transition, and the economic opportunities for businesses and jobs of the growing renewable industry.

During the talk, Erdogan and Starmer spoke of their commitment to further boost bilateral trade relations.

"Turning to the Middle East, the prime minister said there needed to be de-escalation and for partners to work together to ensure regional security and stability," said the statement.

COP29 began in Baku on Monday, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, and activists with a renewed commitment to address intensifying climate crises.

This year’s conference in Azerbaijan promises an emphasis on actionable commitments and innovative funding mechanisms to drive global progress.​​​​​​​