Türkiye hosts Lebanese premier in Istanbul for talks

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam at the Vahdettin Mansion in Istanbul on Friday for a working dinner focused on bilateral ties and regional security, according to a statement from the Turkish Communications Directorate. Following an official welcoming ceremony, Erdogan and Salam conversed by a window overlooking the Bosphorus as the Turkish president indicated several of the city's historic landmarks.

The two leaders subsequently held bilateral talks that addressed Ankara's diplomatic efforts to ensure Lebanon's stability. "Türkiye values its relations with its brotherly country Lebanon," Erdogan said, adding that he believes "intensifying diplomatic contacts in this context would be beneficial." Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also participated in the meeting.

Ankara's commitment to Beirut

Erdogan emphasized that Ankara would maintain its diplomatic initiatives to secure Lebanon's future. "We will continue to provide every possible support, including humanitarian assistance, to help establish security, peace, and stability in Lebanon," he stated, as quoted by the Turkish Communications Directorate. The Turkish president noted that his administration is making every effort to further develop bilateral relations between Türkiye and Lebanon.

The leaders also examined regional dynamics, with Erdogan stressing that it would be "beneficial" for the wider region if Lebanon and Syria were to develop "good-neighborly relations." The meeting took place amid ongoing diplomatic efforts by Ankara to strengthen ties with Beirut and support reconstruction initiatives following recent conflicts in the region.