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Leaders gather in Türkiye to tackle global issues at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026
Antalya is set to become the centre of global diplomacy this week as it hosts the fifth edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), a major international gathering that brings together leaders, policymakers and thinkers from across the world.
Held annually, the forum has grown into one of the most significant platforms for dialogue between governments, businesses, and academia.
This year’s theme, “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties,” reflects a world grappling with rapid change and rising instability.
The timing feels particularly relevant. With conflict in the Middle East still fresh in global minds, discussions are expected to focus heavily on security, regional stability, and prospects for peace.
Behind the scenes, diplomatic conversations are already being planned, including talks related to tensions in the Gulf.
More than 500 senior officials from more than 150 countries are expected to attend the two-day event, which runs from 17 to 18 April.
Among them will be 22 heads of state and government, alongside 14 deputy leaders and more than 50 ministers, including 39 foreign ministers. Representatives from nearly 80 international organisations will also take part.
Nearly half of the attending heads of state will come from Europe and Africa, while foreign ministers represent a broad geographical spread, with Europe, Asia and Africa all strongly represented.
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Among the early arrivals is Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, who touched down in Türkiye on Thursday (16 April) for a working visit ahead of the forum. He is attending at the invitation of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who is expected to officially open the event with a keynote speech.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev visited Türkiye for a working trip to attend the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, on 16 April, 2026.
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Beyond political leaders, the forum will host around 5,000 participants, including academics, students and policy experts. A strong media presence is also anticipated, with more than 1,100 journalists set to cover the event.
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