Speaking at a press conference following the Balkan Peace Platform meeting, Fidan highlighted Istanbul's intensive diplomatic activity in recent days. The city hosted Ukrainian-Russian talks on Wednesday regarding their ongoing war, followed by a meeting between Iran, Germany, Britain, and France on Friday concerning the nuclear issue. Today, it hosted the inaugural meeting of the Balkan Peace Platform.

Fidan explained that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had instructed the convening of this meeting, while leaders of other countries expressed interest in the initiative. The meeting included representatives from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, and Kosovo.

He emphasized that the Balkans serve as a strategic crossroads between Europe, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea, historically occupying a central position in political, economic, and security balances.

The objective of the Balkan Peace Platform, Fidan noted, is to develop a unique, results-oriented structure that addresses issues with transparency and ensures regular communication among participants. While the first meeting was informal, attendees agreed to convene national leaders under this framework once progress is made in the coming period.

Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Turkish Foreign Minister mentioned that both countries have expressed willingness to meet in Istanbul under Turkey's mediation. However, he added, "negotiations are ongoing regarding terms and timing. As mediators, we seek to bridge the differing positions of Ukraine and Russia on neutral ground."

Fidan confirmed that the leaders of Russia and Ukraine desire talks but noted a "disagreement" over conditions. Istanbul previously hosted two rounds of Russia-Ukraine negotiations in May and June, resulting in agreements for the release of thousands of prisoners from both sides.