Turkish FM Hakan Fidan to visit Portugal for high-level talks

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is scheduled to make an official visit to Portugal on Monday for high-level discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between Ankara and Lisbon. The visit underscores Türkiye's ongoing diplomatic engagement with European partners and focuses on expanding cooperation across multiple strategic sectors.

Agenda for Bilateral Cooperation

During his meetings with Portuguese counterpart Paulo Rangel, Minister Fidan is expected to discuss concrete steps to advance the relationship between the two nations. Key agenda items include strengthening political consultations on regional matters, deepening trade and economic links, and increasing mutual investments. The ministers will also explore implementing joint projects in critical areas such as energy, infrastructure, transportation, and port management, building on existing economic foundations.

Strategic Partnership and EU Engagement

A significant aspect of the talks will involve Türkiye's relationship with the European Union. Minister Fidan is set to emphasize the crucial importance of Türkiye's inclusion in EU-led security and defense initiatives, projects, and programs, as well as the bloc's industrial strategy. This diplomatic push comes as both nations prepare to commemorate a century of diplomatic relations in 2026, having established ties following Portugal's recognition of the modern Turkish republic under the Treaty of Lausanne.

Growing Economic and Defense Ties

The bilateral relationship is supported by robust economic figures, with trade volume reaching $2.9 billion in 2024 and $3.1 billion in the first ten months of 2025. Cooperation extends significantly into the defense industry, exemplified by a key milestone in November 2025 when a steel-cutting ceremony was held in Istanbul for the first of two auxiliary replenishment vessels being built for Portugal. This project symbolizes the deepening and long-term nature of the strategic partnership, showcasing Türkiye's growing role as a reliable defense industry partner and its commitment to fostering strong, multidimensional alliances.