President Erdoğan answered journalists' questions on the return flight to Türkiye following his official visit to Azerbaijan.
President Erdoğan, reflecting on his participation in the 17th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, remarked that the ECO, of which Türkiye is a founding member, has developed into a regional platform serving a population of over half a billion across a geographical area of 8 million square kilometres since its inception in 1985.
Emphasising the organisation's commitment to enhancing cooperation in a region of significant geostrategic importance and considerable potential, President Erdoğan stated, "At the same time, it also upholds the common values shared by its members and the bonds of ancient brotherhood. Our country is home to the organisations affiliated with ECO, including the Trade and Development Bank, the Education Institute, and the Regional Coordination Centre for Food Security. As you know, the overarching theme of the summit is “New ECO Vision for a Sustainable and Climate Resilient Future.” This is entirely appropriate, as the regions in which our organisation is located are among the most severely impacted by the climate crisis. The summit served as a forum for exchanging perspectives on green transformation, energy resource efficiency, sustainability, and climate change."
Pointing out that there was also a discussion at the summit about how to make the organisation more effective, President Erdoğan continued:
"We have put forth a few suggestions on this matter. To this end, we evaluated the measures intended to enhance the functioning of our organisation, particularly in relation to trade, connectivity, economic integration, and the efficient use of energy resources. We strive for the organisation to transition to a results-oriented and project-focused structure, all the while preserving its core mission, thus promoting economic and commercial collaboration among its members. It appeared that there was also a consensus regarding this issue. We engaged in discussions to establish the framework of the 2035 Vision Document, which is intended to steer the organisation's transformation accordingly. As member countries, we also assessed the outcomes of the labour, women, and youth forums that took place immediately prior to the summit."
"ECO Tourism Capital for 2025: Erzurum"
President Erdoğan highlighted that enhancing tourism collaboration within the organisation is a priority, noting, "As you are aware, we are actively engaged in various efforts in Erzurum, which has been designated as the 2025 Tourism Capital of the Economic Cooperation Organisation. We have organised and are currently organising nearly 50 events within this framework, including the Winter Games, the Palandöken Economic Forum, and the Gastronomy Festival. Allah willing, we will carry on our joint efforts to promote tourism cooperation in Shusha, which is chosen as the 2026 tourism capital."
President Erdoğan highlighted that, as part of the summit, the situation in Iran and Gaza was assessed within the framework of regional developments and considering Israel's aggressive stance, saying:
"In this context, we engaged in discussions with President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran. As Türkiye, I reaffirmed to him our readiness to do whatever it takes to turn the current de facto ceasefire into a lasting peace. Once again, I extended my condolences for our brothers who lost their lives in Israel’s bandit-like attacks. I will continue to stay in touch with him regarding the developments. We also held detailed discussions with my brother Ilham Aliyev, the President of Azerbaijan, and my dear friend Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan. We had sincere conversations with the leaders of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Of course, the holding of the summit in Khankendi, liberated by Azerbaijan, and the representation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus at the summit as an observer by its President, Mr Ersin Tatar, carried special significance for us. As you are aware, we recently visited Lachin on the occasion of Azerbaijan’s Independence Day and, together with my brother, Ilham Aliyev, inaugurated the city airport. This time in Khankendi, we once again demonstrated our solidarity with Azerbaijan by voicing our stance and messages in support of peace, stability, and development. "I hope this visit will deepen our ties with the member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organisation and further strengthen our bond of brotherhood."
"We advocate the 'win-win' thesis in this area as well"
In response to a press member's question, "US President Donald Trump has decided to increase tariffs around the world. This situation prompted countries to raise their tariffs reciprocally, leading to an increase in regional collaborations. On this note, as the Economic Cooperation Organisation, were new decisions made at this summit to enhance economic cooperation among member countries during this period?” President Erdoğan responded:
“First of all, as one of the founding members of the Economic Cooperation Organisation, we view this platform not only as an economic instrument but also as a geopolitical one. One of our organisation’s goals is to contribute to the development of its member countries. Cooperation is crucial for collective development and success. Especially amid rising trade costs and risks, enhancing this cooperation is vital. At the summit in Khankendi, I emphasised that regional collaborations will provide a stronger foundation for economic growth. We have consistently advocated for assessing and creating new cooperation opportunities within the Economic Cooperation Organisation and across all platforms on which we participate, and we continue to do so. Among the Economic Cooperation Organisation’s recent goals, we have strongly supported and continue to support initiatives like trade liberalisation, logistics infrastructure integration, and customs simplification. In addition to these, we aim to boost our trade volume with members like Central Asian countries, Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, while also strengthening regional resilience through alternative financial models. Balances in the world are now changing very rapidly. Managing this dynamic process skilfully and adapting to change is also important. You'd be the one to lose if you fail to adapt your commercial activities and partnerships to changing conditions. We work to ensure that our friends win alongside us. In other words, we advocate, and will continue to advocate, the 'win-win' thesis in this area as well."
"Gaza has no time to lose"
In response to a press member's question, "After the ceasefire in Iran, eyes turned to Gaza, where a ceasefire is also expected. Can we anticipate the United States taking steps to force Israel to a ceasefire?" President Erdoğan said, "Gaza has no time to lose; humanity is struggling in Gaza. Turning a blind eye to people being condemned to hunger and bombarded is incompatible with the principles of humanity. We are working tirelessly to achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible and to ensure the most effective delivery of humanitarian aid. As Türkiye, we have never ceased our diplomatic efforts, and we convey the seriousness of the humanitarian situation there to every interlocutor we engage with."
Reiterating that he had a meeting with US President Donald Trump on the evening of the first day of the NATO Leaders Summit in The Hague, Netherlands, President Erdoğan added:
"We also discussed this issue in the meeting. I urged them to take part in the Gaza process and said, 'You are the ones best positioned to manage this process with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. There are people who are deliberately killed in food lines. You need to intervene to prevent these people from being killed.' I observed a positive approach from him on this matter. The number of our martyrs in the food queues has so far reached between 55 and 60 thousand. I hope that the steps we have taken will bring this situation to an end. Meanwhile, there are nearly 100,000 wounded in the region. Among the wounded, there are those who are being sent to our country gradually for treatment. They are being treated in our hospitals. We will see to their treatment, and we will continue to do so."
President Erdoğan stated that from the very beginning, they have prioritised the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza at both political and diplomatic levels.
Since the early days of the war, President Erdoğan emphasised that they have labelled Israel’s attacks in Gaza as "genocide" and that they are among the countries spearheading ceasefire efforts through diplomatic channels, noting:
"We have actively contributed to initiatives, including opening humanitarian aid corridors and evacuating patients through our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Turkish Red Crescent." We offered direct support to the mediation efforts conducted through Qatar and Egypt. Thanks to Mr Trump’s initiatives, a 60-day temporary ceasefire plan has now come onto the agenda. In this process, the United States' influence on Israel will be decisive. It is critical that Western countries, particularly the United States, intensify their efforts to exert pressure on Israel in order to negotiate a ceasefire at this juncture. We are of the opinion that the ceasefire between Israel and Iran has also opened up an opportunity for Gaza. In this regard, Hamas has exhibited its goodwill on several occasions. Nevertheless, the ongoing challenges in achieving lasting calm in the region can be attributed to the breaches of ceasefires by Israel. We are actively engaged in preventing a recurrence of the same situation. It is essential to establish a ceasefire that Israel will fully adhere to. To achieve this, it is essential to create a solid foundation for negotiations. The issue of guarantees to be provided for the ceasefire is of particular significance. In addition, the issue of uninterrupted transportation of humanitarian aid is crucial. It is essential to ensure the secure delivery of these aids. Additionally, the infrastructure of Gaza has been decimated by Israel. We are detailing the necessary steps for the reconstruction of the infrastructure, the revitalisation of Gaza, and ensuring it becomes a habitable space once more. Nearly a million people have been forced to relocate, and people are living below the starvation line. Should a ceasefire be established, it is essential for the international community to promptly invest in reconstruction initiatives. The establishment of a permanent ceasefire could pave the way for lasting peace in the region. In order to achieve this, it is imperative to establish a ceasefire that is both robust and enduring and that is strictly upheld. The sole solution to this chronic issue in our region is a two-state solution."
When asked about the Greek authorities' negative reaction to the statement made by the US Ambassador to Ankara, Tom Barrack, regarding the F-35s, President Erdoğan stated, "We are primarily interested in the F-35s for our own security. The F-35 issue transcends mere military technology; it embodies our commitment to robust partnerships on international platforms such as NATO. However, this issue has indeed allowed us to take matters into our own hands and has accelerated our advancements in the defence industry. It is not a threat to anyone that we are enhancing our security infrastructure. Especially not for our friends and allies."
President Erdoğan continued by reflecting on the decision adopted at the NATO Leaders' Summit to ramp up defence spending among allies:
"It was stated that 'NATO countries should enhance their own defence infrastructures to meet their needs, which would subsequently bolster NATO's defence.' Consequently, Greece's apprehension regarding our defence initiatives is both unfounded and futile. Türkiye is not a threat to any country that does not display a hostile attitude or endanger its security and interests. Conversely, Türkiye is a country that diligently strives to promote peace, tranquillity, and security both in its region and globally, and is highly dependable for its allies. Each and every conflict that exists around the region is one that Türkiye strives to resolve peacefully. We have discussed the F-35 matter internally and are following up on it. I believe that Mr. Trump will remain faithful to the agreement we made on this matter. I think the gradual delivery of these F-35s to Türkiye will take place during his term.”
"Part of a geoeconomic revolution"
President Erdoğan was asked the following questions: “At what stage is the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace agreement?” When will the Zangezur Corridor open? Is there clear information on this?” What benefits will activating the Middle Corridor bring to the region?
Drawing attention to the fact that Türkiye’s relationship with Azerbaijan is different from relations between other countries, President Erdoğan said that Türkiye and Azerbaijan are bound not only by friendship but also by brotherhood.
President Erdoğan emphasised that the phrase “two states, one nation” is not just an ordinary saying: “It embodies profound meanings and is reflected in concrete reality. We have proven this many times throughout history. Therefore, we cannot view the events in this region as outsiders.”
Pointing out that peace and stability in the South Caucasus would benefit everyone, President Erdoğan stated, “The diplomatic framework of the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia has been finalised. By the end of 2024, the final text of the peace agreement was agreed upon during meetings held in Brussels, Moscow, and Tbilisi. Although Armenia initially opposed the Zangezur Corridor, it is now adopting a more flexible approach to participate in economic integration. This region's development is an opportunity not only for Azerbaijan but also for Armenia, for us, for Iran, and for other countries. The Zangezur Corridor will bring new opportunities not only to Azerbaijan but also to the entire region. We see this corridor not only as a geopolitical asset but as part of a geoeconomic revolution.”
Highlighting that the opening of the Zangezur Corridor will also be a strategic development for the Middle Corridor, President Erdoğan added:
“When the corridor is opened, Turkish goods will cross the Caspian and reach Central Asia and China more quickly, and goods travelling from Europe to China will begin to transit through Türkiye. The Middle Corridor, stretching from the south, encompasses numerous countries, including Türkiye and Azerbaijan. It also integrates with the route coming from China It has such an importance. We are taking all necessary steps in the best way possible throughout this process. The most important part here is the Zangezur line. It also includes the rail system. For this reason, the importance of the Zangezur line in freight transportation is increasing and will continue to increase.
The Middle Corridor draws all its strength from here. The integration of the Middle Corridor with the Zangezur line and its subsequent role in freight and passenger transport are significant. President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan attaches enormous importance to this. Iraq also places importance on it. It will be a line passing through Iğdır and connecting with Nakhchivan. I believe that with the construction of this line, we will have taken a significant step forward in freight transport. In addition, Türkiye’s Kars-Iğdır-Nakhchivan railway line and the construction investments in Karabakh will operate more effectively when the Zangezur Corridor is opened.”
Emphasising that the world is changing, which makes it necessary to take new steps, President Erdoğan continued:
“Keeping up with change means activating potentials and opening doors to gains. The peace that Armenia and Azerbaijan will sign will change the climate of the region. With the reconciliation achieved, we will witness new and historic windows of opportunity opening one after another. By activating the dormant potential of the region, which has been left idle due to conflicts and wars, one of the finest examples of a win-win model will be created.”
"The Caucasus can no longer bear a new conflict"
When asked about the tension between Russia and Azerbaijan, President Erdoğan emphasised that Türkiye is a country with deep diplomatic and strategic relations with both Azerbaijan and Russia.
President Erdoğan noted that they are closely monitoring the tension and calling on both countries to exercise restraint, expressing his belief that the issue will be resolved more easily and reasonably through statements that would ease the diplomatic tension.
President Erdoğan expressed his hope that the negative developments between the two countries would end as soon as possible: “Our greatest wish is that these unfortunate incidents do not cause irreparable damage to relations between Russia and Azerbaijan. It is possible to resolve the issue by containing these local incidents and their consequences without allowing them to escalate. It is necessary to approach the issue calmly. We know that our two friends are at a level of understanding that will enable them to overcome this problem. We will continue to support constructive steps toward resolving the issue. Our priority will be to avoid sudden escalations that could undermine the hard-won stability of a region that has already seen enough wars and conflicts. "The Caucasus can no longer bear a new conflict."
President Erdoğan said that Türkiye believes the issue will be resolved through diplomatic processes while maintaining calm. He mentioned that this topic came up in his meeting with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and conveyed that Aliyev took careful and cautious steps.
President Erdoğan said, “He is not in favor of pursuing or escalating this matter. From what Mr. Ilham told me, I understood that they will make up for it.”
"Syria's territorial integrity is very important to us"
Regarding developments in Syria, President Erdoğan stated that Türkiye supports all developments that contribute to Syria’s prosperous future and reinforce peace and stability:
“Just as we stood by the Syrian people from the very first days of the civil war, which is now behind us, we will also stand by them in the process of rebuilding their country and unity.” President Erdoğan emphasised that he believes the Syrian administration will take faster steps towards development after the decision by the U.S. and Europe to lift sanctions.
President Erdoğan remarked on the swift advancement of rebuilding bilateral relations between Türkiye and Syria, stating, "We are developing our cooperation with our neighbour in every field. A stable, peaceful, and strong Syria will also benefit its neighbours and contribute to their peace and security. Syria's territorial integrity is very important to us We have taken an active position on the ground with operations such as Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Peace Spring to ensure our own border security and to end the instability in Syria."
President Erdoğan stated that the Syrian people are the sole owners of Syria's resources, opportunities, and potential and continued as follows:
"We can implement models such as free trade zones, logistics hubs, and border markets in the north of Syria. While doing all this, we clearly emphasized our red lines. We will never accept a plan that would legitimise terrorist organisations or their extensions. We are offering all available assistance to eradicate terrorism on Syrian soil, disband all armed groups, and guarantee the Syrian Army's control over the entire Syrian territory. Lasting peace and stability in Syria aligns with our interests as well. Those who strive to disrupt this will also face Türkiye.
Türkiye will advocate for economic development and seize any opportunities. We will enhance our gains at the negotiating table by taking into account our military, diplomatic, and economic interests during this process. President Ahmad Al-Sharaa does not hold a negative perspective on these issues shaped by the lifting of sanctions and engagements with the United States. His approach is likewise positive. During my meeting with my brother Ilham Aliyev, he expressed, 'I am ready to provide all kinds of support' concerning natural gas to Syria. It is very, very important that Ilham Aliyev has such an approach."
Recalling that Syria's most important problem is natural gas, President Erdoğan continued his remarks as follows:
"Natural gas is necessary to ensure there is energy. There is an issue with energy. We are also making an effort to provide energy assistance to a certain extent. However, I was genuinely at peace when I received this positive news from Mr. Aliyev today. As soon as I return, I will inform the Minister of Energy of this good news. He will inform President Al-Shaara about this. Inshallah, we hope to pursue these initiatives together by integrating the steps we have taken with Azerbaijan's assistance. Steps have already been taken to lift sanctions. We intend to build on this by strengthening it."
Regarding a question about Türkiye’s foreign policy—particularly in the context of the statements “The world is bigger than five” and “A fairer world is possible”—and the new steps to be taken in response to ongoing global conflicts, President Erdoğan gave the following reply:
"We do not approach foreign policy with a belligerent attitude. We are taking steps to prioritise peace policy, and we will continue to do so. Thankfully, we have not fallen into the trap of the fire circle that surrounds us, and we will not. In collaboration and unity with our neighbours, we will persist in our foreign policy approach focused on peace. Developments are already pointing in that direction. We approach those who wish to entrap us by stating the exact opposite: "A fairer world is possible" and "The world is bigger than five." In our foreign policy negotiations, we bring other countries into this vision as well. This approach is widely embraced, and in this way, we are carrying this process forward—and we will continue to do so. Regardless of how much our counterparts attempt to provoke us into a conflict, we will not be drawn into that trap."
President Erdoğan stated that they continue to tirelessly explain Türkiye's rightful arguments on all platforms and expressed satisfaction with the increasing number of people who acknowledge Türkiye's legitimacy every day.
President Erdoğan stated that the mottos “A fairer world is possible” and “The world is bigger than five” have now become the cornerstone of Türkiye’s foreign policy vision. He emphasised that this vision resonates strongly with the domestic public as well and that Türkiye’s independent stance in foreign policy has become a source of pride and confidence for its citizens.
President Erdoğan stated that this reality serves as a source of motivation for them and that they are working to be the voice of the oppressed and the downtrodden across the world to show that a global order built on "masters and slaves" does not prevail. He added, "We will continue to explain that the root cause of injustices in the world is the perception that might makes right. We will continue to explain that the foundation of a fairer world can only be laid by making the fairest distinction between what is just and what is unjust."
President Erdoğan stated that they will continue to speak out that decisions concerning the future of the world cannot be made by a handful of power-holders but must be taken equally by all nations that make up the global community. He further stated that it is now more widely recognised that this imbalance is the root cause of the systemic crisis that has been observed in recent years.
President Erdoğan noted that this situation increases their sense of responsibility, stating, “We must raise our voice even louder and convey these truths to more people. For this, we must use new communication tools in addition to conventional methods. We will strive to use new media tools that will carry and spread our voice and message in the most effective way. Reinforcing its regional leadership with a strong moral argument, Türkiye aims to rise to the top ranks in the global league. We support all of this not merely with statements but through concrete projects across infrastructure, education, economy, defence, and diplomacy.”