Turkey’s Erdogan Claims Country is Vigilant on Global Affairs

In a recent address to Türkiye’s AK Party Gaziantep 8th Ordinary Provincial Congress, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan emphasized that Türkiye does not have any territorial ambitions on any country. He expressed his hope for Syria, Türkiye’s neighboring country, to achieve the peace and tranquility it has been seeking for the past 13 years.

President Erdoğan highlighted the increasing attacks on civilians in Syria’s Idlib as a concerning issue that has triggered recent incidents. He noted that Türkiye, sharing a border of 910 kilometers (565 miles) with Syria, cannot afford to ignore the developments in its neighboring country.

Erdoğan stressed the importance of a new political and diplomatic reality in Syria, emphasizing that Syria belongs to Syrians with all its ethnic, sectarian, and religious diversity. Türkiye is cautious of the separatist terrorist organization’s attempts to exploit the situation in Syria, and Erdoğan made it clear that Türkiye will not tolerate any actions that threaten its national security.

The Turkish President expressed his desire to see a Syria where different identities peacefully coexist and stressed the need for all responsible actors, including international organizations, to support Syria’s territorial integrity for the benefit of the region.

President Erdoğan also addressed the issue of Syrian refugees in Türkiye, acknowledging Türkiye’s significant role in hosting the largest number of Syrian refugees worldwide. He stated that despite contrary propaganda, history will reflect Türkiye’s successful humanitarian efforts in supporting refugees.

Recent developments in Syria, including renewed fighting between regime forces and anti-regime groups in Aleppo, as well as the Syrian National Army’s Operation Dawn of Freedom against the PKK/YPG terrorist group in Aleppo’s countryside, have raised tensions in the region. Anti-regime forces have made significant advancements, capturing key areas in Hama and Homs provinces.

President Erdoğan emphasized the need for Syria to move towards freedom, security, and peace, highlighting the Syrian people’s desire for a peaceful homeland. He also lamented the Damascus regime’s failure to understand the significance of Türkiye’s support.