Turkey signals ‘new era’ in ties with Saudi Arabia

THE Turkish president has heralded a “new era” in relations with Saudi Arabia in his first visit to the country since the 2018 murder of the Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul.

On a flight back from Saudi Arabia, Recip Tayyip Erdogan said the sides were determined to accelerate efforts for the common interests and stability of the region, Turkish media reported. He said: “I believe my visit will herald a new era in the ties between our two countries. We have demonstrated our common will to enhance ties.”

Mr Erdogan met King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the twoday trip, and discussed various international, regional and bilateral issues.

The president’s visit is the culmination of a monthslong rapprochement drive that included dropping a trial over the killing of Khashoggi.