Turkey Pushes for Expansion of Black Sea Mine Action Group

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the necessity of expanding the tasks of the Black Sea mine action group during a joint press conference with Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Choiu on November 7. Fidan stated that Turkey supports strengthening the international mine action group to include responsibilities such as protecting critical underwater infrastructure. He highlighted the increased importance of security in the Black Sea region following the conflict in Ukraine, noting the successful operation of the Joint Task Force involving Turkey, Romania, and Bulgaria since July 2024. The minister also underscored the significance of ensuring the safety of food and energy supply routes in the Black Sea.