The trade volume between Türkiye and 54 African countries has grown sevenfold, reaching $37 billion from 2003 to 2023, Yılmaz said after a meeting with Lesotho’s Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane in Ankara.
Highlighting Turkish investments in Africa, Yılmaz said investors from his country have contributed approximately $10 billion to the continent.
He also emphasized the achievements of Turkish contracting companies, which have undertaken 1,977 projects worth $91.6 billion in Africa.
Acknowledging limited progress in trade and investment relations with the Southern African nation Lesotho in the past, Yılmaz expressed optimism for a new era following Matekane’s visit.
Yılmaz reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Africa’s development and progress in all fields, emphasizing a partnership built on brotherhood.
He highlighted Turkish Airlines’ extensive network, with flights to over 60 destinations across the continent, and the active presence of Turkish institutions and foundations.
Noting that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has visited 31 African countries so far, Yilmaz said Ankara’s efforts to “expand our diplomatic network in Africa” include Lesotho’s capital Maseru.
Prime Minister Matekane remarked that his delegation had closely observed Türkiye’s advancements in industry and technology, noting: “We believe that this model will play a very important role in the economic transformation of our own country.”
Matekane underlined the historical significance of his visit and said the two nations held key discussions aimed at strengthening their relationship.
He underlined the strategic areas of cooperation, including trade, investment, agriculture, energy, education, capacity building, tourism and culture, linked to cooperation on migration and labour.
