President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan answered journalists’ questions on the return flight to Türkiye after attending the 12th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Azerbaijan.
President Erdoğan reminded that the Turkic States Cooperation Day was celebrated on October 3 and stated:
"Thus, we have marked the 16th anniversary of the Nakhchivan Agreement, which laid the foundation of our Organization. In a relatively short period, this exceptional institution, which we consider our family council, has achieved remarkable progress. While strengthening its institutional framework, our organisation has also made the common vision of the Turkic world more visible on a global scale. At today’s summit, we discussed an extensive agenda encompassing our sectoral, humanitarian, and cultural cooperation, as well as foreign policy. Alongside the institutional integration process of the Turkic world, we also addressed steps to enhance cooperation with other countries and international organisations. We decided to create a new format called “Organisation of Turkic States Plus” to further reinforce our Organisation’s role as an international actor. In the Gabala Declaration, we formally documented our decision to initiate cooperation in the field of critical minerals, as well as matters related to the defence industry, energy, and connectivity. The declaration was crafted with a clear focus on the summit’s theme of regional peace and security. In the declaration, we expressed our collective perspectives on key foreign policy matters, encompassing the stability processes in Gaza, Syria, and the South Caucasus. We have also instructed our Foreign Ministers to convene on a more frequent basis to address regional and global developments."
"We are witnessing that the TRNC has increasingly expanded its direct contacts with the member states of the organisation."
President Erdoğan stated that they participated via live connection in the groundbreaking ceremony of the mosque to be built in Fuzuli with the partnership of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan and noted that Turkmenistan’s admission as an observer member to the Turkic Academy and the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation marked a new phase in completing the family photo.
Emphasising the great importance they place on ensuring the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is represented at the highest level it deserves within the organisation, President Erdoğan said, "We are witnessing that the TRNC, since obtaining observer country status in 2022, has increasingly expanded its direct contacts with the member states of the organisation. As we did at our Budapest Summit in May, we reiterated in the Gabala Summit declaration the solidarity of the Turkic world to secure the inherent rights of the Turkish Cypriots. We have also enacted the necessary regulation to implement the decision regarding the observer membership of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus at the Turkic Academy."
"Next year, we will serve as the term president"
President Erdoğan stated that during the meetings held on the sidelines of the summit, he had the opportunity to discuss global and regional issues on the agenda with his counterparts, and added:
"Our organisation is also making strides towards becoming a global actor with its increasing international visibility, expanding influence, and strengthened foundations for cooperation. On this path, we will further institutionalise and diversify our cooperation and enhance the global influence of our organisation. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Kyrgyzstan on completing its term presidency of the Organization of Turkic States and to commend Azerbaijan for hosting this successful summit. Next year, we will serve as the term president and, inshallah, organise the summit in Türkiye. On this note, I hope that the 12th Summit of our Family Council will lead to auspicious outcomes for the Turkic world, as well as all our friendly and brotherly nations."
"Where there is risk, precaution will inevitably follow"
Upon being asked a question by a press member, "There are major tensions in the world. There is a risk that these tensions could escalate into a global conflict. In this context, some countries have entered into defence agreements. Are additional defence and security measures feasible within the Organisation of Turkic States? President Erdoğan stated the following:
"First of all, the Organisation of Turkic States is no longer merely a cultural union. It is a strategic solidarity platform. As global tensions impact everyone, they also directly concern member states of the Organisation of Turkic States. Due to their proximity to conflict zones, it can be said that our family council experiences these tensions more acutely than other countries globally. Therefore, where there is risk, precaution will inevitably follow. Nonetheless, we are fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise. We are discussing a multifaceted cooperation, ranging from intelligence and border security to cyberspace. There is a noticeable global trend towards heightened defence spending and progress in security measures. As members of the Organisation of Turkic States, we are also moving in this direction. Further steps can be thoroughly discussed and implemented as needed."
"Our colleagues are in Sharm el-Sheikh"
In response to the question, "Regarding your meeting with US President Donald Trump upon your return from the UN visit, you said, 'We explained the steps that need to be taken first towards a ceasefire and then towards a lasting peace with regard to Gaza and Palestine.' And progress followed soon after. Last Friday, Donald Trump set a deadline for Hamas. Afterwards, he held a phone conversation with you. What were Türkiye's ways of persuading both the USA and Hamas in this process?" President Erdoğan replied:
"All Palestinians know that Türkiye safeguards and advocates for Palestine's interests. We defend the rights of the oppressed in Gaza, as well as the rights of our brothers and sisters in other parts of Palestine, as if they were our own. We have been striving for years to end the bloodshed in Gaza and ensure the security of the oppressed."
"We have always maintained our contact with Hamas throughout this process. We continue to remain in contact. President Erdoğan stated, "We are explaining the most reasonable course of action and the necessary steps for Palestine to move forward into the future confidently," and continued:
"Our colleagues are currently in Sharm el-Sheikh. They have been there all day, and as of tomorrow morning, they will begin the meetings. During both our visit to the United States and our most recent phone conversation, we explained to President Trump the ways in which a resolution in Palestine could be attained. He, in turn, specifically asked us to speak with Hamas and help persuade them. We promptly contacted our counterparts regarding the matter. I informed President Trump that we support his peace efforts, and we have also made this public. Hamas, in its response, stated that it is ready for peace and negotiations. In other words, they did not adopt a contradictory stance. In my opinion, this is a highly valuable step. Hamas is taking the lead over Israel. Why do I say this? Because Hamas has suffered such heavy losses—over 100,000 injured. Everywhere they stayed was completely destroyed. Now, they do not even have anywhere to take refuge. We have not seen, nor do we see at present, Israel displaying similar and constructive attitudes. Neither do we expect such a stance from them. We will strive to resolve the Israel-Palestine issue based on a two-state solution. We hope that, inshallah, we will succeed with the support you provide as well."
In response to the question, “A hope for peace has emerged for Gaza. They accepted the peace plan proposed by US President Trump. Now, looking at that peace plan, two international bodies stand out. One is a Peace Council positioned above the interim government of Palestine, and the other is an International Stabilisation Force for security. You say in every speech, 'We will support Gaza and all the efforts made for it.' Will Türkiye be able to participate in these two international bodies—the Peace Council and the International Stabilisation Force? Will Turkish troops be deployed to Gaza?'' President Erdoğan replied, “Our priority is the immediate establishment of a comprehensive ceasefire. We must achieve this first. It is essential that humanitarian aid is delivered to Gaza without interruption as soon as possible.''
President Erdoğan highlighted the prompt restoration of Gaza's infrastructure, which Israeli attacks had destroyed, as one of his top priorities, saying, "We are conducting intensive diplomatic efforts for this. It is crucial that Gaza remains the land of the Palestinian people. Ultimately, it is also vital that Gaza is governed by the Palestinians themselves.''
Underscoring that the methods for ensuring security and the way the stabilisation force would be established and operated can be discussed in detail, President Erdoğan stated, ''For this reason, I place utmost importance on the negotiations in Sharm El-Sheikh. Meetings have started today, but tomorrow’s discussions are crucial. Our Director of the National Intelligence Organisation will also attend. The outcome of these discussions is of great significance. When I say, 'We support every effort,' it is with full consideration of all possible scenarios. We hope Israel keeps its promises and does not take any steps that would sabotage this peace. While we are hopeful for a lasting ceasefire and peace, we are equally cautious.''
''The flotilla has made the unlawful blockade visible''
In response to the question, “You brought 36 Turks and 137 activists from the Sumud Flotilla to our country. The foreign activists thanked Türkiye as they disembarked from the plane. Here, Türkiye’s global power became even more evident. We observe that our country is effective and competent in all regional matters, holding a balanced position. How should we interpret the next phase?” President Erdoğan stated:
“The group you mentioned was the first stage. During the second stage, we brought a total of 16 people from Israel, 14 of whom are Turkish citizens. They went to Jordan, and from there they arrived in İstanbul. In other words, we retrieved the Sumud groups in Israel in two separate batches. This flotilla has made the unlawful blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza visible, which is why it is critical. They managed to bring ships carrying only humanitarian aid as far as Gaza’s territorial waters, thereby breaking the blockade. In my view, this is the most important aspect of their success. From the very moment the Sumud Flotilla set sail, we, as Türkiye, closely monitored the process with our drones (UAVs) and naval vessels. For example, on Sunday, based on the footage obtained by our Akıncı drones, I tracked the Sumud Flotilla almost from morning until evening, observing where it was, what it was doing, and its overall status.''
President Erdoğan underlined that the teams were constantly monitoring the situation and that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the intelligence services worked extremely hard throughout this process.
''The fight on both the diplomatic and legal fronts''
Recalling that Israel violated international law by intervening against the flotilla in international waters, President Erdoğan said, ''We worked intensively to secure the release of both our citizens and the other foreign nationals on the flotilla from Israel. We also began evacuating our citizens within a short period. When the first team arrived, our people—including my own daughter—welcomed them, along with our citizens and those from other countries.''
President Erdoğan stated that Turkish Airlines had made excellent preparations, providing clothing and even vegetarian meals, noting, ''They said, 'We have never seen such attention and care anywhere else but from Turkish Airlines.' Something truly remarkable unfolded there, beyond the bounds of international diplomacy. May Allah bless all those who contributed. May Allah bless the Turkish Airlines executives. The second group also came via Jordan, and they too were safely and comfortably brought ashore.''
Stating that the experiences of the activists who arrived in Türkiye have been documented through both medical reports and legal records, President Erdoğan emphasised that the fight continues on both the diplomatic and legal fronts, and that they will not take a single step back.
''We take pride in standing on the right side of history''
When asked, ''Since October 7, 2023, due to what has happened in Gaza, the international system, the global human family, and each one of us individually have gone through a very shocking and painful two years. Yet, undoubtedly, given your position, your dedication to the Palestinian cause, and your experience, you have seen a different, unfiltered side of these events. You have also seen a dimension we have not, the backyard. Specifically regarding Gaza, what did you see? How would you assess the situation?'' President Erdoğan replied, ''I can say that Gaza has become almost like the visible front of the apocalypse in the world. Consider this: 67,000 Palestinians martyred; in addition, more than 169,000 injured. But there is something even more striking. One of my friends beside me informed me that these numbers were wrong. When I asked why, they replied, 'The numbers are incorrect. When those trapped beneath the rubble are also taken into account, the numbers are said to be around 600,000'." We only talk about the 169 thousand injured for now. We are talking about our martyrs. Yet, humanity remains silent in the face of all this. Sadly, nothing is being done."
President Erdoğan noted that two years marked by pain, blood, and tears have passed, and emphasised that a great tragedy and genocide have been witnessed in Gaza, and stated the following:
"Israel’s assaults, violating international law, have been recorded in history as a dark stain. What Israel is carrying out is not legitimate self-defence but a deliberate act of genocide and terrorism. The massacres Israel has carried out openly and recklessly, along with those who have turned a blind eye to them, have been inscribed in the disgraceful pages of human history. These acts are unforgivable. As Israel kills babies and targets hospitals, ambulances, marketplaces, refugee tents, UN missions, schools, and places of worship, those who frame their sentences with “but” or “however” will be unable to justify this stance to future generations. History remembers both those who stand on the right side and those who persist in wrongdoing. It is clear where everyone took a stand during the Nazi genocide. Those who overlooked the genocides in Bosnia and other areas are also obvious. They are well-known to our generation. They are feeling shame today, and those who stay silent about the Gaza genocide will face a similar fate tomorrow. We take pride in standing on the right side of history, both yesterday and today. Therefore, we are at peace."
A journalist, stating that the SDF in Syria consistently failed to comply with the March 10 agreement, asked, “You have issued your warnings repeatedly. It is clear that Israel has provoked the SDF, along with various other groups. There are also some talks taking place today. Moreover, there are rumours of discussions regarding the security talks and agreements between Syria and Israel. What will your plan of action be in the next phase?", President Erdoğan stated that they have a clear stance on this matter.
President Erdoğan highlighted that they will never let Syria be pulled back into instability and emphasised that Türkiye closely observes all developments on the ground and that its patient, prudent, and dignified approach should never be seen as a sign of weakness.
President Erdoğan stated, “The Syrian Democratic Forces must honour their promise. It should fully integrate with Syria. I think we can solve many problems if we act in the spirit of a shared history and future. As I have previously stated; those who align themselves with Ankara and Damascus will prevail. The alliance of Turks, Kurds, and Arabs is the key to lasting peace and stability in the region. No one must be swayed by provocations or deceived by false hopes."
President Erdoğan noted that the Syrian administration remains sensitive to the tensions in Aleppo and that the Syrian Democratic Forces are expected to comply with the March 10 agreement and stated, "Syria's territorial integrity is indispensable for us. It is impossible for us to accept any opposing stance against this. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and his administration share the same perspective as us. As Türkiye, we will continue to stand by the Syrian people."
"We hope that both the F-35 issue will be resolved and the CAATSA sanctions will be lifted"
In response to the question, "After coming back from the United States, you had another talk with Trump. What topics did you address in this meeting? Did the F-35 issue come up? Will the CAATSA sanctions be lifted?", President Erdoğan noted that, as in every other area, there is cooperation between Türkiye and the U.S. in the defence industry.
President Erdoğan stated that they have discussed both matters with the United States to further strengthen these relations and that they expect positive outcomes, adding:
"In our meeting with Mr Trump, we received positive messages on this matter. We addressed the F-35 issue clearly and explicitly. Additionally, Türkiye is a partner in this project; it has met its financial commitments and fulfilled all of its responsibilities. None of the justifications for our removal from this programme have any legitimacy. Mr Trump had also implicitly touched upon the matter before. Necessary technical talks are being held at every level in order to take concrete steps. We hope that in the end, both the F-35 issue will be resolved and the CAATSA sanctions will be lifted. We need to achieve that too. Our visit has kicked off a new era in Türkiye–U.S. relations and further cemented the dialogue and friendship between us."
In response to the question, "One of the pressing issues which came up during your meetings in the United States was the status of Halkbank. What was the result in regards to that?" he remarked, "Mr Trump, both during our meetings in the U.S. and in our latest phone conversation, said, 'The Halkbank issue is over for us.' Of course, this is an extremely important expression of political will, and it is valuable for us. On the other hand, we are aware that there are still some processes that need to be completed. Our hope is that these processes will be concluded positively as soon as possible."
"That frame is the real picture of Türkiye"
Responding to the question, "There is a photo taken at the October 1st reception marking the opening of the Parliament. And it was widely debated in the public. What are your thoughts about this matter?", President Erdoğan remarked:
"The presence of those who attended the Parliament’s opening reception was very important to us. We also came together with the DEM Group there and had conversations. Beyond these conversations, we had the opportunity to discuss what can be done for the future. I hope what comes next will be auspicious. As for the photograph taken at the reception, that frame is the real picture of Türkiye. Some try to portray Türkiye as a country divided into camps and fragmented, but the truth is the image of unity and solidarity captured there. Those who were not part of that scene should sit down and reflect on themselves."
When asked, "Recently, terrorist organisations and gangs have been using children, mostly those under the age of 18, which has raised concerns among our families. The 11th Judicial Reform Package will increase penalties related to this issue. Will there be any additional sanctions besides these?" President Erdoğan answered:
"The murders committed by individuals under the age of 18 have deeply saddened us. We are determined to save our children from the hands of terrorist organisations and criminal gangs. As the state, we are engaged in an all-out struggle in this regard. With the 11th Judicial Reform Package, we are increasing the deterrence of penalties. But punishment alone is not enough. Without strengthening the family, supporting education, and expanding social solidarity, no lasting solution can be achieved. Unfortunately, we are faced with a problem too complex to be resolved solely through penalties or changes to the education system. In addition to legal regulations, we are working on measures to protect children who witness, are exposed to violence, or are isolated — before they become involved in crime. In other words, we are focusing not only on the children involved in crime but also on the factors that lead them to it."
"The Turkish economy is rising on strong foundations"
When it was pointed out that inflation in September exceeded expectations, and was asked, "Certain circles have started to criticise the economic structure again over this. Would you like to convey a message to these centres spreading pessimism and to our sensible citizens on this matter?" President Erdoğan said:
"Due to seasonal effects, it is true that inflation in September came in higher than expected. But no one should turn this into a picture of pessimism regarding the Turkish economy. We are implementing a programme that builds the future, not one that barely saves the day. We are determinedly and successfully continuing to implement our programme. Alongside all this, we are focused on the bigger picture of the economy, not temporary fluctuations. Fighting inflation is certainly not easy. We have succeeded in this fight in the past. We will succeed again. Because we are experienced in this matter. We know what we are doing and are striving to overcome it. Do not worry — the Turkish economy is rising on strong foundations."
"We are aware of your sensitivity regarding children and the issue of Palestine, and equally, we know how deeply you feel about your mother. We came across something on social media today. It is October 7th. Surely, you haven't forgotten." To these remarks, President Erdoğan said: "God bless you. It is not easy. May God never let anyone live a life without their mother, and may He never test anyone that way. So much time has passed, but truly, from the very first moment, life without a mother felt unbearable. May God reunite us with our mothers in paradise, in His presence and beauty."