Erdogan seals 24 Gulf agreements boosting Turkish diplomacy

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan returned to Türkiye on Thursday after a comprehensive three-day Gulf tour that yielded 24 new agreements across defense, energy, and economic sectors. The visit to Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman significantly deepened Türkiye's regional partnerships while consistently emphasizing the need for a two-state solution to the Gaza conflict during high-level talks with Gulf leaders.

Kuwaiti Agreements and Regional Unity

Beginning in Kuwait, President Erdogan and Emir Meshal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah discussed enhancing bilateral relations and addressing regional challenges. Erdogan stressed Muslim unity regarding Gaza and cooperation on Syria's future. The countries signed several memoranda covering maritime transport, energy collaboration, and direct investment promotion. A notable moment saw Erdogan present Kuwait's leader with a Togg, Türkiye's nationally produced electric car, symbolizing industrial advancement.

Strategic Advancement with Qatar

In Doha, the Turkish president co-chaired the 11th High Strategic Committee Meeting with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Erdogan characterized relations as "excellent," highlighting their strategic partnership's role in regional stability. New agreements focused on strategic development planning and defense industry cooperation, building upon existing strong ties between the two nations that have coordinated closely on various regional matters in recent years.

Comprehensive Partnership with Oman

The final stop in Oman produced the most extensive agreements, covering defense, mining, media, and education. President Erdogan and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq aligned on Palestinian diplomacy and conflict mediation. Important deals included visa exemption for ordinary passport holders, critical minerals cooperation, and a strategic partnership between the Turkish Wealth Fund and Oman Investment Authority. The Turkish Maarif Foundation also secured land for establishing schools in Oman, expanding Türkiye's educational presence abroad.