Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reaffirmed Turkiye’s ambition to serve as a global beacon of peace and humanitarian diplomacy, declaring the country a proactive force in resolving international crises while combating terrorism and empowering its youth.
Speaking at Gençfest, a major youth event in Istanbul, Erdogan highlighted Turkiye’s diplomatic efforts from Gaza to Ukraine and praised its role in mediating cease-fire talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations held in Turkiye this week. “We are working tirelessly, one by one, for peace and cease-fires,” he told the crowd.
Emphasizing Turkiye’s departure from passive international observation to active peace leadership, Erdogan said, “Turkiye is leading peace diplomacy. A Turkiye that does not watch events from the sidelines but leads and guides them.”
He also underlined Turkiye’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, recalling the nation’s decades-long struggle and financial sacrifices. “We are taking deliberate and decisive steps to rid our country and region of terror,” he said. Noting a recent statement by the PKK to lay down arms, Erdogan criticized detractors for attempting to sow doubt, claiming they profit from continued instability.
Calling for unity among Turkiye’s diverse communities—including Turks, Kurds, Arabs, Alevis, Sunnis, and Circassians—Erdogan framed national solidarity as crucial to the country’s future. “We stood firm despite efforts to sever us from our civilizational roots,” he declared.
Addressing Turkiye’s youth, Erdogan praised their growing involvement in politics, public service, and technology. “We entrusted our defense industry to young minds—and now we have our own UAVs, our Akıncı aircraft. We are admired globally,” he said.
In conclusion, Erdogan positioned Turkiye as a nation forging a secure, inclusive, and future-oriented path. “Soon, we will relieve Turkiye of the burden it has carried for 40 years. That moment will mark the beginning of a new era.”
Source: Daily Sabah
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
