Turkey and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Ties Amid Regional Developments

On February 3, 2026, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, marking Erdogan's first visit to Saudi Arabia in over two years. This meeting is part of a broader effort to enhance bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and defense. Erdogan emphasized Turkey's commitment to supporting stability in Syria and expressed intentions to collaborate with Saudi Arabia on rebuilding efforts in the war-torn nation, according to statements from the Turkish presidency.

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The relationship between Turkey and Saudi Arabia has evolved significantly over recent years, transitioning from rivalry to a more cooperative stance. Ties were notably strained following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which led to a diplomatic fallout. However, recent high-level visits and discussions have indicated a warming of relations, with both nations now focusing on mutual interests, including regional security and economic cooperation.

Turkey's Erdogan visits Saudi as ties between former foes warm

During the meeting, Erdogan and bin Salman discussed various topics aimed at deepening cooperation between their countries. The Turkish presidency highlighted the importance of addressing regional and global developments, including the situation in Yemen and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Erdogan's visit also includes a scheduled meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in Cairo, where they will co-chair the Turkey–Egypt High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, further emphasizing Turkey's role in regional diplomacy.

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Despite the positive developments, there are concerns regarding Turkey's involvement in regional conflicts. Critics argue that Turkey's support for certain factions in Syria and its stance on other geopolitical issues may complicate its relationships with neighboring countries. Additionally, the decision not to join a mutual defense pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, despite earlier discussions, has raised questions about Turkey's strategic priorities in the region.

Turkey Determined to Take Relations With Saudi Arabia to Higher Level, Erdogan Tells Crown Prince

Erdogan's office stated, "Turkey is determined to take relations with Saudi Arabia to a higher level," reflecting the Turkish government's commitment to enhancing bilateral ties. The Turkish presidency also noted that Erdogan's discussions would focus on "additional steps to deepen cooperation" and address pressing regional issues.

Turkey Determined to Take Relations With Saudi Arabia to Higher Level, Erdogan Tells Crown PrinceTurkish President Erdogan begins two-day visit to Saudi Arabia and EgyptTurkey's Erdogan visits Saudi as ties between former foes warm

• “Bilateral issues will be discussed, and views will also be exchanged on regional and international developments, with particular focus on Palestine,” — Turkish Presidency

Turkish President Erdogan begins two-day visit to Saudi Arabia and Egypt

Following Erdogan's visit to Saudi Arabia, he is set to engage in discussions with Egyptian officials, further solidifying Turkey's diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. The outcomes of these meetings may influence future regional alliances and cooperative strategies, particularly in light of ongoing tensions involving Israel and Iran.

Turkish President Erdogan begins two-day visit to Saudi Arabia and Egypt