President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said, "We, together with Mr. Putin, may have an invitation to Bashar al-Assad. If Mr. Putin can visit Türkiye, this could be the beginning of a new process."
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan talked to journalists and answered their questions on his return flight from Kazakhstan, where he attended the 24th Summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
President Erdoğan stated that he was invited to the summit as the guest of honour by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan and that he also attended the 2022 Leaders' Summit in Uzbekistan as a special guest.
President Erdoğan acknowledged that Türkiye was a dialogue partner of the organisation since 2012 and that, in this context, he delivered an address at the session that was attended by other countries invited to the summit. Erdoğan noted that, during the session themed "strengthening multilateral dialogue—the pursuit of sustainable peace and development," they exchanged views on current global challenges.
Stating that he underscored the need for multilateral dialogue, cooperation and solidarity in response to the challenges that afflict this region, particularly Gaza, President Erdoğan said, "I underlined that we are striving to build an international system in which the right is strong, rather than the strong being right."
President Erdoğan stated that they reviewed bilateral and multilateral cooperation opportunities in the fields of economy, energy, connectivity, and security and also addressed issues such as terrorism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, irregular migration, and climate change.
Noting that they saw benefit in increasing cooperation with members of the organization in the fight against terrorist organisations such as PKK/PYD/YPG, FETO and DAESH, President Erdoğan also said that he shared his views on stopping Israel and increasing international pressure on the Israeli administration to end the destruction in Gaza.
President Erdoğan stated that the summit was also useful for expressing Türkiye's potential contributions to the organisation.
Remarking that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation gained an identity that emphasises cooperation in economic and commercial areas over the years, President Erdoğan said, "The organisation, which covers a geography of 3.8 billion people, has a total economic power of 27 trillion dollars among its members. As you know, Türkiye desires to expand cooperation with other countries on the continent through the Asia Anew initiative. Our participation in the summit was also fruitful in this respect."
Noting that he held bilateral meetings with the leaders of some member and invited countries during the summit, President Erdoğan said that in this context he held bilateral talks with President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh of Mongolia, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, President Xi Jinping of the People's Republic of China and President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus.
President Erdoğan mentioned that he also had a trilateral meeting with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, along with informal discussions with other leaders.
"We discussed mediation"
President Erdoğan was reminded that he was the only leader in NATO who had a positive and open relationship with President Putin of Russia, and that thanks to this relationship, significant steps on many issues—including the grain crisis—could be taken, and then he was asked, "The world's eyes were focused on your meeting with Putin in Astana. After the meeting, you said 'A just peace is possible' on Ukraine.' Do you believe there will be promising progress towards peace? You gave strong messages about cooperation with Russia. What is your vision for how this process will unfold? What does Russia expect from Türkiye? Will Putin seek to escalate or de-escalate tension in Ukraine? What is your take on that?"
President Erdoğan mentioned that he has been in contact with President Vladimir Putin of Russia and President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine since the conflict started.
President Erdoğan stated that they had the opportunity to discuss the effectiveness and extent of their mediation efforts during these meetings and continued:
"During my meeting with President Putin of Russia today, we had a discussion about the mediation. We have achieved an impressive start, particularly in the context of the Black Sea Grain Corridor. As you are aware, we have transported 30 million tonnes of grain along the corridor. I asked his perspective on the idea of initiating a fresh process here, as he insisted, setting aside grain shipments to the West, and instead creating a new corridor through Türkiye to Africa and other nations that are vulnerable in terms of food security. President Putin stated that he remains committed to the Istanbul Grain Initiative in this regard. It would be beneficial for us to improve this Because Putin has a negative view towards Europe. Since Europe has targeted Russia, Russia also has a negative view towards Europe and the West. He says, "They will not utilize our means." Regarding Africa, he is eager to employ all available resources due to the poverty in the region. They have already positioned Türkiye differently in this regard. Therefore, we will continue to negotiate within this framework. For the time being, we'll focus on the Russian leg of the corridor: 'How far can we go, and what kind of support will they provide?' I believe that with the results we will get in this regard, we will hopefully make the Black Sea Grain Initiative operational again."
Stating that the only winners of the war are the "merchants of blood and death," President Erdoğan said, "I am hopeful that the tension will be alleviated and that the groundwork for peace can be established. We are prepared to contribute to the creation and protection of that ground, as we have in the past.
"This could be the beginning of a new process"
"I would like to ask about the resumption of the Türkiye-Russia-Syria and Iran quadrilateral talks. In this context, you said, 'We have no reason not to re-establish diplomatic relations with Syria.' What conditions need to be fulfilled or what kind of developments need to take place for you to meet with Bashar al-Assad?" President Erdoğan said, "I had previously stated on Friday, following the Friday prayers, that we could start a new process with Syria. We, together with Mr. Putin, may extend an invitation to Bashar al-Assad. If Mr. Putin can visit Türkiye, this could be the beginning of a new process."
Underscoring that the years that have elapsed in Syria have unequivocally demonstrated the necessity of a permanent solution mechanism, President Erdoğan stated the following:
''With its infrastructure decimated and its people in disarray, Syria must recover and put an end to its instability. The current quiet on the ground can pave the way for peace through intelligent policies and solution-oriented approaches that are free of prejudice. One problem is that the region's instability allows terrorist organisations to operate freely, particularly the PKK/PYD/YPG. It is critical for Syria's future that these terrorist organisations are eliminated indiscriminately and collectively. Syria's democratic infrastructure must be built in order to achieve an inclusive and dignified peace, all while preserving Syria's territorial integrity. The winds of peace blowing in Syria, as well as the climate of peace that will prevail throughout the country, are also required for the return home of millions of people who have been spread across other countries. We have always extended a friendly hand to our neighbour Syria and will continue to do so. We will always support a prosperous and united Syria, embraced by a new social contract that is fair, dignified, and inclusive. As long as Syria initiates this massive embrace and recovers in all areas.''
"It becomes evident that they do not wish Syria to rise again"
Upon the questions citing that the acts of provocation began simultaneously in the north of Syria and Kayseri, "Is the situation in the north of Syria currently under full control? Is a meeting between Damascus and Ankara on the table? Are there countries that are bothered by the normalisation process between Türkiye and Syria? How could the voluntary and willing repatriation of Syrians in Türkiye be furthered? Or, are there countries that oppose this as well?" President Erdoğan said, "Not countries, but groups like PKK/PYD/YPG and DAESH are the ones that are bothered by it. It becomes evident that they are opposed to such a meeting and do not wish Syria to rise again."
President Erdoğan continued his remarks by stating that there are numerous structures in the north of Syria, as well as those who aspire to improve their relationship with Türkiye on time, and added:
"In fact, Prime Minister of the Syrian Interim Government Abdurrahman Mustafa intervened immediately after the incidents in the north of Syria and promptly turned these negative developments into positive ones. In Türkiye, the situation in Kayseri was alleviated through the prompt intervention of our security forces, which resulted in a positive outcome for all parties involved. We would not permit an escalation of such situations, even if they were to occur temporarily in our country. Neither would a situation of this nature be tolerated by the Syrian structures that stand against terrorist organisations. Those who seek to undermine the atmosphere of solidarity in Türkiye by launching racist campaigns are attempting to fulfil the orders that they receive from shadowy organisations. However, we are rather experienced in thwarting such schemes. We do not tolerate chaos-mongers and exploiters looking to take advantage of a despicable incident. Our state implemented the necessary measures in response to the incident in Kayseri and continues to do so. Nobody is permitted to assume the role of the state's law enforcement, judiciary, or government of this country. Though they may think their cunning schemes are unbreakable, our unity, brotherhood, and solidarity are capable of thwarting any of their schemes."
"We have not allowed, and we will not allow, the establishment of a terrorist haven in our region"
In response to the question, "As part of the fight against terrorism, you previously stated that an operation would take place during the summer. Currently, the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) and the National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) are carrying out extremely effective surgical strikes. Given this, is there a plan to conduct a military operation? It was stated that as part of the new process, Iraq may back a joint operation. Is there any chance that this will occur?" President Erdoğan remarked:
"For now, the outcome will be dependent upon the unfolding of events in the region. Saying, 'We will take this type of step,' before the developments have achieved a particular stage of maturity, would be wrong. However, if it is deemed necessary, given future developments, the step will be taken. Actually, blows are occasionally being dealt against the PKK in the north of Iraq, much like in the north of Syria. Twelve to thirteen PKK terrorists were just neutralised. Fifteen PKK terrorists were eliminated on a different occasion. Put simply, we take a firm stance against terrorism. This is a result of the good ties we have there. We are able to implement actions of this nature in Iraq and Syria at any time due to our favourable relations. Our law enforcement forces are constantly on the lookout. We make and execute immediate decisions based on the severity of the threat. We consistently emphasise to those we interact with that terrorism is the head of the snake, which stifles the region's ability to live in peace, tranquillity, stability, and development. During our most recent visit to Iraq, we had talks in this regard. Additionally, our officials communicate with their counterparts regularly. We are making a very clear and forthright statement, and we will not back down. "We have not allowed, and we will not ever allow, the establishment of a terrorist haven in our region."
"It might require some time"
Upon the question, "For the past twelve years, Türkiye has been participating as a dialogue partner in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). By attending summits, you have also consistently been present at the organisation's work table. Is Türkiye's full membership in the SCO on the table? What is your take on such a process?" President Erdoğan responded:
"It is evident from the composition of the SCO that Russia maintains ties with the Turkic states. Moreover, the majority of SCO is comprised of Turkic states. These Turkic states will become even more influential within the organisation. Through the SCO, we also hope to strengthen our ties with Russia and China. Our wish is to be welcomed as full members of the organisation, not just as dialogue partners. Iran finally has become a full member of the SCO. Besides that, Pakistan is also a full member. There are nine full member states as of right now. Although it might require some time, there is no reason Türkiye cannot be one of these states."
President Erdoğan noted, "Türkiye has been fighting terrorism indiscriminately for many years. It is regretful that our allies have left us alone in this conflict, contrary to NATO's sense of cooperation, and have even encouraged terrorist organisations."
Upon the question, "NATO's Secretary General has been replaced by Mark Rutte. Your bilateral relations are known to be good. Will this relationship help Türkiye overcome its challenges within NATO? Is there any news on the possibility of a Turkish person serving as NATO's second in command? Will such a person take office, and if so, who does Türkiye endorse?" President Erdoğan said that they discussed these issues with Rutte.
"When Rutte visited me, I told him about this expectation. In truth, he did not portray a pessimistic outlook. He conveyed the impression that such a development might be advantageous for Türkiye. He also stated that he planned to visit Türkiye before taking office," said President Erdoğan while expressing appreciation to Mark Rutte.
President Erdoğan mentioned his journey to the Bosphorus with former Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and said that he invited Rutte to a journey to the Bosporus as well, and added:
"We communicate Türkiye's expectations of NATO at every opportunity. Strengthening the Alliance's unity and coherence, as well as preserving and enriching the spirit of solidarity, are critical. On global concerns, including terrorism, we must act with a perspective that protects the security and interests of NATO members. Türkiye has been fighting terrorism indiscriminately for many years. It is regretful that our allies have left us alone in this conflict, contrary to NATO's sense of cooperation, and have even encouraged terrorist organisations. We will continue to express our thoughts on these issues to Mr Rutte. We will explain, one by one, what we believe, propose, and do in all of the challenges we face with our allies, not just to Mr Secretary General, but on all forums, particularly at the NATO Summit."
"There are countries and circles in the West that are fanning the flames"
When President Erdoğan was reminded that after the statements made about World War III by NATO and Russia, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan and the Ministry of National Defence also made statements concerning this risk, and he was asked about his view on the subject, he said:
"Unfortunately, there are countries and circles in the West that are fanning the flames. They support an approach that could lead to World War III. Arms dealers need markets. The West is also a market for arms dealers. In his recent remarks, Mr Putin has expressed his support for peace. Because fatigue is evident on both sides. So we asked them, 'When will we have peace?' They have reached the stage where 'there is no time for this; the whole point is for mediators like you to step up.' We are doing our best to step up ourselves. We hope that the war between Russia and Ukraine will come to an end. We continue to step up and stay on top of developments. Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan and Minister of National Defence Yaşar Güler are staying on top of the situation. I hope we can reach a conclusion as soon as feasible. Our mottos, 'The world is greater than five' and 'A fairer world is possible', which we have been advocating for years, are tangible ways to dispel this bad climate and avoid the likelihood of a massive war."
Noting that that it is still possible to implement solutions, President Erdoğan said, "The necessary actions are to revise the global system, guarantee that all individuals adhere to international law without discrimination, eradicate terrorism through a holistic approach, and establish a global sharing system that is founded on justice and equity."
"We hope that the massacres committed by Israel will end"
"Has Israel and its supporters' use of the Greek part of Cyprus as a military and logistical base posed a threat to the TRNC and Türkiye, particularly our rights in the Mediterranean? Will you have a message for the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation?" In response to the question, President Erdoğan remarked that new developments have occurred since Israel's onslaught on Palestine.
When reminded of the fact that Hamas agreed to the ceasefire text with minor adjustments, President Erdoğan said, "The head of Mossad will travel to Doha. President Biden of the US will also reach out to Netanyahu on the issue. At this point, Western countries must exert collective pressure on Israel. As a result of this pressure, I believe a ceasefire for some will be achieved. We also discussed these issues in our meetings with the Emir of Qatar. They are also applying the required pressure through several channels. We hope that a definitive ceasefire will be negotiated in the next days as a result of the call of President Biden to Israel, bringing an end to Israel's recent atrocities."
President Erdoğan stated that Israel could not yield any result from the masses it made in its land, nor will it from the Greek Cypriot section of Cyprus, adding, "When did these attacks begin? Since then, has Israel achieved what it set out to achieve? No, it has not. They stated that they would complete the work within a week or 15 days. They could not yield any result. Any action that will spread the fire throughout the region should be avoided."