Turkish president stresses Gulf countries' right of unrestricted access to high seas

ANTALYA, Türkiye, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday that Gulf countries' right of access to the high seas must not be restricted, stressing the need to ensure freedom of navigation based on established rules and keep the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial vessels.

Addressing the opening session of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Antalya, Erdogan also called for making the most of the opportunity created by the ceasefire to establish lasting peace.

The 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, hosted by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, runs from April 17 to 19, with the theme "Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties."

The event brings together leaders, policymakers, diplomats, academics, business experts, media, and civil society representatives to explore ways to best manage uncertainties and address pressing issues while preparing for future challenges.

Iran tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz after the United States and Israel launched joint attacks on the country on Feb. 28. The United States also imposed a naval blockade on the strait following its failed negotiations with Iran in Islamabad, Pakistan.

The peace talks were held Saturday and early Sunday, following a two-week ceasefire between Iran, the United States and Israel that took effect on April 8. A second round of talks is likely to take place on Sunday in Islamabad, media reports showed.

Earlier on Friday, both Washington and Tehran confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz has been completely open for all commercial vessels for the remaining period of the ceasefire. However, U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. naval blockade against Iran will "remain in full force." In response, Iran reportedly warned of closing the waterway again if the U.S. blockade continues. Enditem