Türkiye reaches ‘unprecedented level in fight against terrorists': Foreign minister

By Gizem Nisa Cebi

ISTANBUL (AA) - Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated Friday that Türkiye has made significant strides in combatting "terrorist organizations" and reaching an "unprecedented level" of success.

"We have reached an unprecedented level in our fight against terrorist organizations. There are three main elements of this success: Strong political leadership, our national strategic capabilities, and a new and constructive engagement process with our neighbors, especially Iraq," Fidan said during his speech at the "Izmir Business World Gathering" event organized by the Izmir Chamber of Commerce.

"At this critical stage, we are determined to completely eradicate the roots of terrorism," he noted.

The minister also stressed Türkiye’s commitment to eradicating terrorism's roots, noting: "We have never sought to create hostility in Aegean or Eastern Mediterranean. However, we will never refrain from protecting our vital interests."

Fidan underscored the necessity for consultation and collective wisdom in the current global uncertainty.

"Regardless of the circumstances, our main goal is to establish peace, security, and stability in our surroundings. This is one of the primary objectives of our foreign policy. However, large and powerful states like Türkiye can shoulder such responsibility."

- ‘Terrorism fundamental threat to security’

Fidan stated that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s vision of peace and development is evident in Türkiye’s foreign policy, focusing on ending the war in Ukraine and Gaza for fair, and lasting peace.

He highlighted the efforts for peace and stability by establishing a culture of regional ownership in the Balkans and South Caucasus.

He noted that they are working on enhancing their relations with Greece "through a positive agenda and addressing issues."

"Whether for our country or our region, the fundamental threat to security is terrorism."

- Economic relations with US, EU countries

Fidan finally stated that Türkiye’s goal is clear, and the strategies leading to this goal are results-oriented.

He criticized the lack of "strategic contributions from allies" like the US and EU in promoting "peace and regional development" citing these countries’ "daily political debates and prejudices" against Türkiye.

"Despite the biases I mentioned with the US and EU countries, we are working tirelessly to increase our economic relations," the minister noted.

For Fidan, the focus is on "increasing trade volume and direct investments", intensifying "diplomatic efforts towards updating the Customs Union with the European Union and achieving visa liberalization."