A total of 39 delegates from 21 countries met in Ankara to discuss Black Sea security. Turkiye emphasized continued adherence to the Montreux Convention.

MoD sources have disclosed information on a recent high-level Black Sea security conference in Ankara on April 15–16. Coordinated by the Turkish General Staff, the summit included 39 international participants from 21 nations.

Turkiye leads the naval dimension of post-war planning

According to MoD sources, the discussions were part of the “Coalition of the Willing,” a group of nations preparing to maintain stability in the event of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Turkiye reaffirmed its commitment to these peace efforts and underscored its leadership in maritime military planning to safeguard the post-conflict security environment in the Black Sea.

Sources said:

“In the event of a ceasefire between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, some activities are being carried out by the Coalition of the Willing to maintain a peaceful environment. Turkiye is continuing to ensure peace within this framework and is leading the military planning on the maritime dimension to preserve peace in the Black Sea.”

Montreux Convention to remain the legal baseline

Participants reached a consensus that Turkiye should continue to lead naval planning efforts. They also agreed that the Montreux Convention must remain in effect in its current form unless a formal peace agreement is signed and that all planning activities must adhere to this legal framework.

The meeting marks a step forward in international coordination on Black Sea security amid ongoing concerns over the regional consequences of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Conclusion

The Turkish MOD sources underline that Turkiye will continue to ban foreign naval vessels from entering the Black Sea according to the Montreux Convention as long as peace is not reached. 

Author: Özgür Ekşi