Türkiye welcomes South Africa's support for Palestinian cause, President Erdogan says

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has acknowledged South Africa's supportive position on the Palestinian cause during diplomatic discussions with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile in Ankara. The two leaders addressed bilateral relations and international developments during their Wednesday meeting at the presidential complex, with Türkiye monitoring ongoing humanitarian and ceasefire implementation in Gaza.

Palestinian cause and regional monitoring

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President Erdogan specifically recognized South Africa's backing of Palestinian rights during the high-level talks. The Turkish leader confirmed that Ankara continues to track the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza and the implementation of ceasefire arrangements between Hamas and Israel. The discussion of Palestinian issues reflects both nations' consistent diplomatic positions regarding the conflict and their support for international legal mechanisms addressing humanitarian concerns.

Bilateral cooperation and G20 preparation

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The Turkish president extended best wishes for South Africa's preparations to host the upcoming G20 summit in November, assuring that Türkiye would be represented at the highest level. Erdogan emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two nations, expressing optimism that decisions reached and documents signed during the inaugural Bilateral National Commission meeting would prove beneficial for future collaboration. The discussions highlighted the strategic importance both countries place on their expanding partnership.

International legal context

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The diplomatic exchange occurs against the backdrop of South Africa's landmark initiative at the International Court of Justice in December 2023, when it initiated proceedings against Israel alleging violations of the Genocide Convention during military operations in Gaza. Between January and May 2024, the ICJ issued three provisional measures ordering Israel to prevent genocide, cease military operations, and permit humanitarian access. These legal developments preceded the recent ceasefire announcement by US President Donald Trump that temporarily halted hostilities.