Amid escalating tensions in Gaza, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan embarked on a visit to China, following the 10th ministerial conference of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum. Chinese analysts believe that besides enhancing bilateral cooperation, China will collaborate with Turkey and other regional powers to facilitate a sustainable cease-fire in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
During his visit, Fidan met with Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee. They reaffirmed their commitment to elevating security cooperation between the two countries, aligning strategic development goals, and contributing to global peace and development.
Fidan expressed eagerness to further enhance bilateral security cooperation. His visit to China, scheduled from Monday to Wednesday, is expected to bolster cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, given Turkey’s strategic significance as a vital link between Asia and Europe.
Li Xinggang, a research fellow at the Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean Rim at Zhejiang International Studies University, highlighted the potential for activating the China-Europe Railway Express to enhance economic and trade benefits.
Liu Zhongmin, a professor at the Middle East Studies Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, noted the stabilized relations between China and Turkey in recent years, especially after China’s support to Turkey following a deadly earthquake in 2023. The wave of reconciliation in the Middle East, including the reestablishment of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran with China’s mediation, has contributed to regional stability.
The ongoing crisis in Gaza has further solidified unity among Muslim countries, including Turkey, and strengthened ties with other major powers.
