Ukraine is preparing for a visit from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with the ratification of the free trade agreement between the two countries expected to be a key item on the agenda, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Nariman Dzhelyal, told RBC-Ukraine in an interview on August 4.
According to Dzhelyal, Kyiv is actively working to organize the visit, following an invitation personally extended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Erdoğan confirmed he had received the invitation during a recent meeting with Zelenskyy, the ambassador said.
“This visit requires significant effort, as there are many issues hindering its realization,” Dzhelyal noted.
He emphasized that ratifying the long-awaited free trade agreement could become the centerpiece of the visit.
“President Zelenskyy’s invitation is very straightforward: Türkiye is interested in signing a free trade agreement. This agreement is important for a significant portion of our business, though it may raise concerns for some due to increased competition,” Dzhelyal explained.
“However, this is a political decision. President Zelenskyy proposed that the agreement be ratified during Erdoğan’s visit, which would be a strong and symbolic gesture,” he said.
Previously, Erdoğan expressed optimism that Ukraine and Russia could eventually reach an agreement to end the ongoing war, adding that Türkiye is ready to play a role in facilitating dialogue. As Hurriyet reported on July 28, Erdoğan emphasized Türkiye’s continued diplomatic efforts amid regional instability.
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