Malian Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga and Türkiye's Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz have discussed ways to strengthen relations between the two countries, and also the possibility of restoring direct Turkish Airlines services to the Malian capital.

The meeting took place in Antalya on November 10, on the sidelines of the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31), where Maïga is representing Mali's transitional President, Assimi Goïta, according to the Malian Press Agency (AMAP).

The discussions covered opportunities to expand cooperation in defense, mining, energy, infrastructure and education, as well as strengthening trade relations. Both sides expressed interest in developing bilateral ties. The possible resumption of Turkish Airlines flights to Bamako was also raised during the meeting.

Separately, Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop told Anadolu that Bamako wants to deepen its partnership with Türkiye through technology transfers and access to modern equipment, particularly in the defense sector.

He also called on Turkish companies to expand their involvement in Mali's energy, agriculture and healthcare industries.