The world is witnessing a new global development every day. A region like Laleli, which is assertive in the field of logistics and accommodation while trading with many countries of the world, is undoubtedly likely to be affected positively or negatively by these developments. In this respect, I believe that these issues are extremely important in determining our predictions and shaping our goals.
As you know, global powers reached out to Libya before they could share the Syrian cake. While the Astana process, carried out in cooperation with Turkey and Russia, had provided a certain environment of stability, albeit partial, in Syria, the world suddenly turned its attention to Libya. Undoubtedly, stabilizing our neighbor Syria by uniting around a new and fair constitution that covers all segments of society is one of Turkey’s priorities. Unfortunately, the aggressive attitude of the regime forces on the Idlib issue, which was agreed upon within the framework of the Sochi Agreement, may leave Turkey alone with a new wave of migration. This situation will spark a new and widespread migration movement from Turkey to Europe. In this respect, I believe that it is important for all parties to act carefully and in line with the agreements. Regarding Libya, it is a shame for humanity for the whole world that global powers act oil and energy-centered instead of people-oriented. The Libyan people, who have lived under oppression for many years, now deserve peace and prosperity. The actions of regional actors who mobilize foreign fighters and interest gangs for their own interests are incompatible with humanity and brotherhood. In the end, it is the Libyan people who suffer and are oppressed. It is admirable that Turkey took the initiative during this crisis and stood by the Libyan people, with whom it has historical and cultural ties. As a nation that has always stood by the oppressed, we will fulfill our duty here to the end. Our greatest wish is for a culture of compromise to prevail, for the parties to meet on the basis of a certain agreement and focus on the future of Libya. Otherwise, an endless dark process will push the entire region into great weakness, and this result will not benefit anyone.
Unfortunately, the world does not always progress in a structure where justice prevails and the righteous are strong. We see this clearly in the Mediterranean, especially recently. The exclusion of Turkey, which has the largest coastline in the Mediterranean, from natural energy projects is the biggest example of this. Although our country, which acts based on agreement and understanding, has repeatedly stated that no project in which Turkey is excluded from the game will be successful, our neighbors continue their stubborn attitude on this issue. Partnerships based on fair sharing and a win-win philosophy will contribute greatly to regional peace. Moreover, the agreements in which our compatriots in Cyprus are tried to be excluded are, in the final analysis, nothing more than futile activities. Chasing small gains by establishing such periodic associations will not benefit any country. Knowing this and acting on this axis is important for the whole world, especially our neighbors. As a matter of fact, the memorandum of understanding regarding the Classification of Maritime Jurisdiction Areas signed by Turkey with the UN-recognized Libyan administration has turned all these games and plans upside down. I hope that this agreement, which will benefit both Libya and Turkey, will bring good things to the people of both countries.
We always say that a growing and developing Turkey is a guarantee for all oppressed people, especially our neighboring countries. It is in the interest of the brotherly peoples with whom we have historical ties and with whom we shared the same table in the past, to act with this awareness. For this reason, I believe that it is important for them to know the power, importance and value of Turkey. This geography needs unity instead of separation, solidarity instead of division. Instead of wasting our energy internally, it is possible to keep up with the times and become a regional center of attraction.
As you know, unfortunately, we lost many lives and more than a thousand citizens were injured in the earthquake that took place in Elazığ last month. During and after the earthquake, our people and our state showed a great example of solidarity and made a unique effort to heal the wounds. On this occasion, we saw once again that our troubles and joys are the same. We all experienced together that when one of us gets hurt, a blind fire falls into the hearts of eighty million people. I wish God’s mercy to all our brothers and sisters who lost their lives in the earthquake, a speedy recovery to our injured, and my condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May God protect our country and nation from such disasters.
As I conclude my words, I offer my respects and hope that we all experience a process full of goodness, friendship and success on behalf of our country and our region.
