UPDATE - Türkiye reaffirms commitment to global peace after landmark prisoner exchange

UPDATES WITH FOREIGN MINISTER’S STATEMENT

By Gizem Nisa Cebi and Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - Türkiye on Thursday reaffirmed its dedication to international peace and stability after leading a landmark prisoner exchange operation.

"Türkiye will continue to offer every possible contribution to the establishment of peace and stability in the international arena," a Foreign Ministry statement said.

Türkiye's National Intelligence Organization (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.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry statement also detailed that the operation included a total of seven aircraft — two from the US, and one each from Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Russia. It noted that, of the individuals transported to Türkiye, 10 hostages, including two children, were transferred to Russia, 13 to Germany, and three to the US.

"From the very beginning of the negotiation process to the final moment of the exchanges, all security measures, logistical planning, and needs of the operation were managed by the National Intelligence Organization," the ministry added.

- 'Center of peaceful diplomacy'

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan praised the "historic" operation and congratulated MIT personnel who took part in the operation.

"Türkiye will continue to be the center of peaceful diplomacy in line with the vision of our President (Recep Tayyip Erdogan)," he added.