Turkish Ambassador Ends Diplomatic Mission, Reaffirms Support for ECOWAS
By Raymond Enoch
The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Hidayet Bayraktar, has concluded his diplomatic tenure, marking the occasion with a farewell visit to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray,, in Abuja , Nigeria
During the occasion Ambassador Bayraktar praised the strong partnership between Turkey and ECOWAS, commending Dr. Touray for his commitment to strengthening ties between the two entities.
As a final diplomatic gesture, he invited Dr. Touray to attend a high-level event in Antalya, Turkey, later this year.
Beyond bilateral relations, regional security took center stage in the discussions that ensued. Both leaders addressed the growing challenges of insecurity and terrorism in West African region, exploring collaborative strategies to combat these threats.
Ambassador Bayraktar reiterated Turkey’s unwavering support for ECOWAS in promoting peace, stability, and security across the region.
Dr. Touray, in turn, hailed Turkey’s contributions and stressed the urgent need for unity among ECOWAS member states in tackling insecurity.
“ECOWAS’s major challenge is insecurity, and none of its member states can face it alone. If we are not united, we cannot combat this threat. Unity and collective collaboration are essential to preserve peace and stability in West Africa,” he emphasized.
Turkey has emerged as a key strategic partner for West Africa, supporting ECOWAS in regional development and security initiatives. Dr. Touray emphasized the importance of continued multilateral cooperation to sustain efforts in tackling terrorism and fostering economic growth.
Also present at the meeting were Abdou Kolley, Director of Cabinet, representing ECOWAS, and Ms. Elif Durdu, Deputy Ambassador of Turkey.
As Ambassador Bayraktar’s tenure comes to an end, the partnership between Turkey and ECOWAS remains steadfast, with both parties committed to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties for the progress of the region.
