Türkiye's AK Party praises 'peace-focused' diplomacy after 7-country prisoner swap

By Gizem Nisa Cebi

ISTANBUL (AA) — A major prisoner exchange of 26 individuals that involved seven countries and took place in the Turkish capital Ankara highlights Türkiye's commitment to peace and diplomacy, the country's Justice and Development (AK) Party said on Thursday.

AK Party Deputy Chairman and spokesperson Omer Celik said on X that the swap, conducted under the coordination of the Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT) "has once again demonstrated Türkiye's negotiation and peace-focused capacity."

MIT on Thursday led a successful prisoner exchange involving seven countries in one of the most extensive swap operations in recent years.

A total of 26 individuals were exchanged, transported to the Turkish capital Ankara on seven aircraft — one each from Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, Russia, and two from the US, according to security sources. Belarus was also involved in the swap.

Ten hostages, including two children, were transferred to Russia, while 13 were sent to Germany, and three to the US.

Celik emphasized that the exchange was the result of Türkiye's "multilateral and peace-oriented diplomacy led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan."

He underscored Türkiye's strategic role in global peace efforts.

"Türkiye is strengthening its position as a key country for regional and world peace," he said, pointing to the reliability of the country's diplomatic problem-solving capacity under Erdogan's "multidimensional political approach."

"At a time when regional and world peace is at stake, Türkiye's role has become much more important. "

Celik also reiterated Türkiye's commitment to global harmony, saying:

"We congratulate everyone who contributed to this result achieved at a time when the ground for dialogue is weakening and law and diplomacy are becoming inoperative. The Republic of Türkiye continues to contribute to regional and global peace with the motto 'Peace at home, peace in the world.'"