Technology brings not only development but also independence, security: Turkish president

By Gokhan Ergocun

ADANA, Türkiye (AA) - Technology represents not only development and prosperity but also independence, security, and sovereignty, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday.

Speaking at TEKNOFEST, Türkiye’s premier technology event, in the southern city of Adana, Erdogan emphasized that Türkiye understands the pain of foreign dependence, especially in the defense industry.

It was never easy to organize TEKNOFEST or to manufacture advanced technology products, Erdogan said, noting that none of the achievements Türkiye has made over the last 22 years came "on a silver platter." The country faced significant “difficulties and sabotage.”

"We have been betrayed from within and from abroad, witnessing all forms of injustice and double standards," he stressed.

"Now, we are exporting to countries that previously refused to sell us defense industry products," he added.

Anadolu has been the global communication partner for TEKNOFEST, which began on Wednesday and will run through Sunday.

- TEKNOFEST reduces foreign dependence

On Türkiye's economic growth, Erdogan pointed out that the country’s GDP exceeded $1.1 trillion for the first time last year.

He highlighted that Türkiye has increased the share of indigenous production in its defense industry to 80%.

Türkiye is now among the top three countries globally in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), he said.

Erdogan also acknowledged the country's success in research and development, as well as in design centers, noting that TEKNOFEST plays a key role in enhancing Türkiye's technology ecosystem.

"TEKNOFEST shows that foreign dependency is not our destiny," he underlined.

He further emphasized that Türkiye is strengthening its defenses against state-backed cyberattacks and digital terrorism. Electronic warfare and the development of national software are priorities on the country’s agenda, he added.

"We are taking firm steps toward becoming a country that not only uses technology but also designs, develops, produces, and exports it," Erdogan said.

"From tanks to armored vehicles, from warships to submarines, from aircraft to UAVs and air defense systems, we are becoming extremely powerful," he added.