ARABIAN TIMES NEWS NETWORK
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reaffirmed Türkiye’s role as a global leader in humanitarian diplomacy and peacebuilding, vowing to continue defending the rights of the oppressed. Addressing youth at the vibrant Gençfest event in Istanbul, he declared, “Türkiye is carrying the banner of humanitarian diplomacy. We are leading peace efforts across the world, tirelessly working for cease-fires and justice.”
Erdoğan underscored Türkiye’s active involvement in halting bloodshed in conflict zones like Gaza, Ukraine, and Kashmir. He emphasized that Türkiye is not a bystander but a nation that shapes global developments, both at negotiation tables and in real-world arenas. “We will continue to look toward the horizon and beyond. Our eyes are on Palestine, Gaza, Sudan, Africa, and Ukraine,” he said, highlighting Türkiye’s broad diplomatic vision.
The President’s remarks followed recent cease-fire negotiations hosted in Türkiye between Russia and Ukraine, further cementing the nation’s role as a hub for peace diplomacy. Beyond global affairs, Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism. He recalled the immense sacrifices made in the struggle, noting that nearly $2 trillion has been invested over the years and countless lives have been lost. “We are taking decisive steps to eliminate terror, not just from our land but from our region. We will not stop until we succeed.”
Referring to the PKK’s recent declaration to lay down arms, Erdoğan condemned critics of the development. “Some mourned its end, revealing how terror served their interests. They fed off instability, wore masks of revolution while indulging in comfort. Now, with peace near, their narrative is crumbling.”
Erdoğan called for national unity, urging citizens to “share both joy and grief together” and embrace a future free from the burden of terrorism. “A new era is near,” he said, full of hope. Youth, he stressed, are the heart of Türkiye’s progress. “We empowered you with education, innovation, and opportunity. You now lead in politics, public service, and defense. Our UAVs, drones, and Akıncı aircraft are proof of your genius.”
