Erdoğan: Türkiye to advance Africa ties on ‘equal partnership’ basis

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Thursday that Türkiye will continue to deepen its relations with African countries on a foundation of equal partnerships, mutual respect, and win‑win principles. Speaking at a joint press conference with Niger’s President Abdourahamane Tchiani after their talks in Ankara, Erdoğan reiterated Ankara’s commitment to expanding cooperation across the African continent.

Support for Sahel counter‑terrorism

Erdoğan voiced support for African nations facing security challenges, particularly in the Sahel region bordering the Sahara Desert. “We stand by our friendly and brotherly countries in the fight against terrorist groups that sow instability, especially in the Sahel region of the continent,” he said. Tchiani was in Ankara for talks on bilateral ties and regional issues. Türkiye has in recent years increased defence cooperation with several Sahel countries, including Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, providing drones and military training.

Türkiye’s Africa policy

Ankara’s Africa policy has expanded rapidly under Erdoğan, with Turkish embassies rising from 12 to 44 across the continent. Trade volume has grown to over $40 billion, and Turkish construction, aviation, and humanitarian aid projects are present in many African countries. Unlike some Western powers, Türkiye often highlights its lack of colonial history in Africa as a basis for trust. The meeting with Tchiani also likely discussed energy cooperation, as Niger has significant uranium reserves.