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Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Sunday that Türkiye's top priority in foreign policy is to end conflicts in the region, emphasizing the country’s self-reliance and extensive experience in counterterrorism.
Speaking during a series of visits and meetings in Aksaray, Fidan addressed business leaders, civil society groups, and reporters, highlighting Ankara's economic progress, regional role, and security policies.
"Our first priority is for conflicts in our region to end as soon as possible," Fidan said, adding: "Whether in the use of force or in national security activities, from counterterrorism to other operations, our number one goal is to ensure stability, peace, and calm in the region."
Fidan described Türkiye as a "solid fortress" for its citizens and a stabilizing force for surrounding nations.
"Our state inevitably assumes the role of a locomotive and protective country for neighboring states," he said.
"Our foreign policy should not only advance Türkiye’s interests but also bring peace and stability to the entire region," Fidan added.
He listed areas where Türkiye has engaged diplomatically and economically: Syria, Iraq, Iran, the Caucasus, the Black Sea, the Balkans, the Aegean, the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Western Mediterranean, Central Africa, southern Africa, the Atlantic, South America, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Asia-Pacific.
Commenting on Türkiye's operational and intelligence capabilities, Fidan said the country's defense industry and counterterrorism expertise have benefited other nations.
"Türkiye has intense experience in counterterrorism," he said. "When we assist countries like Somalia or others in Africa, the climate changes immediately."
He criticized some Western countries for indirectly supporting adversaries, adding, "The best our closest friends could do was not to support our enemies."
Using President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's expression, Fidan said, "We cut our own umbilical cord," emphasizing Türkiye's self-reliant approach to addressing challenges.
He explained that this capability has strengthened the country while creating awareness of the need to help other nations facing similar difficulties.
"When you use the power in your hands for good, it is actually a matter related to the civilization and your lineage," Fidan said. "Our society is not one that can say 'What's it to me?' about the troubles others are experiencing."
The foreign minister emphasized that Türkiye assists countries in need regardless of their religion or sect, contributing to global stability and preventing chaos.
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