(MENAFN) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and French President Emmanuel Macron held a phone conversation on Wednesday in which they addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict along with several broader international matters. The call, initiated by the French side, also covered the state of bilateral cooperation and regional concerns, according to reports.

During the discussion, President Erdogan underscored that strengthening collaboration between Türkiye and France remains a key objective, noting that both nations will keep pursuing steps that advance this aim.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, he reiterated that Türkiye is exerting significant effort toward securing a fair and enduring settlement. He noted that ongoing engagement with both parties seeks to reinvigorate the Istanbul process, explaining that Türkiye is prepared to undertake any necessary initiative “to help open the door to peace at the earliest opportunity.”

Erdogan highlighted the importance of prioritizing diplomatic engagement to reach a sustainable resolution, stressing that his country intends to further bolster support for moves aimed at establishing a cease-fire and the stages that would follow. He added that steering clear of actions that risk destabilizing global conditions would aid peace-building efforts.

The conversation also addressed recent developments in the Caucasus, Gaza, and Syria, according to reports.

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