Panel in Abu Dhabi examines future of Turkey–MENA cooperation

Experts and researchers said Turkey’s relations with the Middle East and North Africa are entering a phase of strategic repositioning as the international system becomes increasingly multipolar, according to the Emirates News Agency.

The comments came during a panel discussion organized by TRENDS Research & Advisory through its Turkey Virtual Office, the agency reported.

Participants said there is a need to move beyond managing short-term balances toward building an institutionalized and sustainable framework for security and economic cooperation.

The discussion, titled Turkey–Middle East and North Africa Relations: Economy, Security, and Strategy, was held at TRENDS’ headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Academics and researchers examined Turkey’s evolving regional role and prospects for partnerships with Gulf states.

Panelists addressed economic diversification, emphasizing advanced industries, artificial intelligence and renewable energy as priority areas.

Speakers noted that relations between the United Arab Emirates and Turkey have evolved since 2020 from de-escalation to structured diplomatic engagement, including the establishment of strategic councils that have strengthened institutional cooperation.

On Syria, participants discussed opportunities for Gulf–Turkey cooperation in supporting stabilization and reconstruction efforts. They said progress toward a stable, state-centered framework would create more favorable conditions for rebuilding infrastructure and improving regional connectivity.

The panel also highlighted convergence on preserving Syria’s territorial integrity as a possible basis for broader coordination on infrastructure, energy and regional integration projects.

Participants underscored the importance of institutionalizing dialogue through a permanent platform linking Turkish and Gulf think tanks to provide periodic policy recommendations and support a sustainable regional security and economic architecture based on shared responsibility and gradual integration.