ISTANBUL (AP) 鈥� Venezuela鈥檚 acting met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Monday for talks aimed at deepening cooperation, particularly in trade, energy, and mining, according to a statement from the Turkish leader鈥檚 office.
Rodr铆guez, who assumed office after U.S. forces captured former president in January, arrived in Turkey following focused on strengthening energy ties.
鈥淧resident Erdogan expressed that our country always stands by the friendly people of Venezuela. He emphasized Turkey鈥檚 determination to further advance cooperation with Venezuela in many fields, particularly trade, energy, and mining,鈥� the statement from the Turkish presidential communications directorate said.
Turkey and oil鈥憆ich Venezuela have forged close ties over the past decade, strengthened by Maduro鈥檚 support for Erdogan after the failed coup attempt in 2016. Ankara frequently , and the two countries signed agreements to cooperate in energy and gold trade despite international sanctions.
The meeting with Rodr铆guez at Istanbul鈥檚 Dolmabahce Palace also addressed steps to raise bilateral trade from $448 million in 2025 to a targeted $3 billion.
In addition to bilateral issues, the leaders exchanged views on global developments, the statement added.
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