Erdogan: Türkiye will stay course despite regional conflicts

Cabinet meeting in Ahlat

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Tuesday that Türkiye will remain firmly on its development path despite ongoing regional conflicts, declaring the nation's direction "clear" and its destination certain during an address following a Cabinet meeting in eastern Bitlis province. "Türkiye is on the right path, God willing. Its direction is clear, and sooner or later it will reach its destination," Erdogan said at the Ahlat Presidential Complex. He added that the government holds the "sacred trust" of the country's 86 million people securely, stating, "Türkiye is safe. The trust entrusted to safe hands, representing 86 million people, is secure. We will under no circumstances allow this sacred trust to be cast into shadow."

Economic resilience

The Cabinet convened under Erdogan's chairmanship to discuss foreign policy, trade, security and the government's "Terror-Free Türkiye" initiative. Erdogan noted that regional economic crises are affecting Türkiye but stressed the administration's commitment to employment, exports, agriculture and tourism targets. He said that as the economic shockwaves from Iran-US tensions gradually subside, the effects on daily life will become clearer.

Anti-terror initiative

Erdogan highlighted legislation recently approved by parliament with 467 votes, calling the bipartisan support a historic consensus that strengthens the disarmament process. "Come, let us fulfill our debt of gratitude to our martyrs and veterans properly by ridding Türkiye of terrorism," he said, urging citizens across the political spectrum to participate. He cautioned that those who sabotage or oppose the initiative will be held responsible before history, and called on civil society organizations to increase their contributions.

Regional peace efforts

Erdogan reiterated Türkiye's commitment to peace in the region, stating that Ankara's diplomatic efforts are disrupting the plans of criminal networks built on conflict. "We see what bloody scenarios are being devised for our region. God willing, we will not allow them to be carried out," he said. "We have no hidden agenda or intentions, contrary to what some claim. Our aim is for an atmosphere of peace to prevail around us," Erdogan added, emphasizing continued support for neighboring countries' recovery.