Turkey has agreed to supply combat drones to Egypt, a move that is expected to signal the reconciliation between the two countries. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced the decision, emphasizing the importance of the relationship between the two nations for security and trade in the region. The agreement is part of the ongoing normalization process between Turkey and Egypt.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is scheduled to visit Egypt soon, marking his first visit in 12 years and his first meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi since the rift between the two countries. The last visit by Erdogan to Cairo was in November 2012 when he was the Prime Minister.
The improvement in relations between Turkey and Egypt began with a handshake between Erdogan and el-Sisi in November 2022 during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar and continued with a phone call in February 2023 after a devastating earthquake struck Turkey and Syria, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands.
In July 2023, the two countries announced the restoration of diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level, signifying a significant milestone in their renewed engagement. The reestablishment of ties comes after the countries recalled their ambassadors following the military-led ousting of former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi in July 2013.
The decision reflects the evolving dynamics in the region and the mutually beneficial interests of Turkey and Egypt. This strategic collaboration underscores the efforts towards strengthening security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The visit of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (left) shaking hands with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shukri during a meeting in Cairo in October of last year.
