RIYADH — Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a phone conversation Sunday, discussing bilateral relations and pressing regional concerns. The call, which took place on October 29, 2023, signals continued dialogue between the two nations as they navigate complex geopolitical challenges. Discussions centered on strengthening ties and collaborative efforts toward regional security and stability, according to official statements released by both governments.
The conversation occurred as both Saudi Arabia and Turkey are actively involved in mediating various conflicts and pursuing economic partnerships within the Middle East and beyond. While details of the discussion were limited, the exchange underscores the importance both leaders place on maintaining open communication channels. The call also comes amid heightened tensions in the Israel-Hamas conflict and ongoing concerns about regional escalation.
Strengthening Saudi-Turkish Relations
The phone call represents a continuation of efforts to improve Saudi-Turkish relations, which have experienced periods of strain in recent years. A significant thaw began with President Erdoğan’s visit to Saudi Arabia in July 2023, the first high-level trip in years following a period of diplomatic coolness. This visit resulted in substantial investment agreements and a renewed commitment to cooperation.
However, past disagreements over issues such as the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and differing stances on regional conflicts had previously created friction. The recent diplomatic outreach suggests a willingness from both sides to move beyond these issues and focus on areas of mutual benefit. This includes economic cooperation, particularly in the energy and defense sectors.
Economic Cooperation and Investment
The July visit saw the signing of several agreements focused on boosting economic ties. These included investments in renewable energy projects and collaborations in the technology sector. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the agreements aim to diversify both economies and create new opportunities for growth. Turkey is seeking to attract foreign investment to bolster its economy, while Saudi Arabia is looking to diversify its revenue streams beyond oil.
Additionally, trade between the two countries has been steadily increasing in recent years. Saudi Arabia is a key market for Turkish exports, including textiles, machinery, and construction materials. Turkey, in turn, imports petrochemicals and other products from Saudi Arabia. This growing economic interdependence provides a strong incentive for maintaining positive political relations.
Regional and International Developments
Beyond bilateral relations, the leaders discussed the latest regional and international developments, with a particular focus on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Both Saudi Arabia and Turkey have called for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the crisis. They also expressed concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, according to statements released by both governments.
The call also likely touched upon the situation in Syria, where both countries have competing interests. Turkey has been involved in military operations against Kurdish groups in northern Syria, while Saudi Arabia has supported opposition groups fighting against the Syrian government. Finding common ground on Syria remains a significant challenge.
Furthermore, the discussion likely included the situation in Ukraine. While Turkey has maintained a neutral stance in the conflict, Saudi Arabia has provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine and has called for a peaceful resolution. Both countries are seeking to balance their relationships with Russia, a key partner in the region, with their commitments to international law and stability. The evolving geopolitical landscape requires careful navigation, and bilateral relations are crucial for both nations.
In contrast to some regional dynamics, Saudi Arabia and Turkey share a common interest in countering terrorism and extremism. Both countries have been targeted by terrorist attacks in the past and are committed to working together to address this threat. This shared security concern provides another basis for cooperation.
The discussion also likely addressed the broader issue of energy security. Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest oil exporter, while Turkey is a major transit route for oil and gas from the Middle East to Europe. Collaboration on energy issues is therefore essential for both countries. The bilateral relations between the two nations are vital for regional energy stability.
Meanwhile, the leaders also likely discussed the upcoming COP28 climate summit, scheduled to be held in Dubai in November 2023. Both Saudi Arabia and Turkey are signatories to the Paris Agreement and are committed to reducing their carbon emissions. Collaboration on climate change initiatives could be another area of cooperation.
The ongoing normalization of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, brokered by China earlier this year, may also have been a topic of conversation. This development has the potential to reshape the regional balance of power and could create new opportunities for cooperation. The impact of this shift on bilateral relations remains to be seen.
Looking ahead, further high-level meetings and continued diplomatic engagement are expected. The implementation of the investment agreements signed in July will be a key indicator of the strength of the renewed partnership. Monitoring the two countries’ positions on regional conflicts, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict and the situation in Syria, will also be crucial. The extent to which Saudi Arabia and Turkey can find common ground on these issues will shape the future of their relationship and their role in the region.
