President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to maintaining diplomatic and mediation efforts as a primary pathway for resolving global conflicts. In a video address to the 9th Istanbul Mediation Conference, the President emphasized that Istanbul has evolved into a vital hub for international diplomacy, acting as a bridge between diverse cultures and peoples for centuries. He expressed his gratitude to the foreign ministry for organizing the event.
Highlighting the current state of global affairs, Erdogan expressed concern over escalating tensions and a declining sense of trust in international institutions and law, which he warned is deepening global instability. He stated that Türkiye adheres to a principle of persistent engagement, refusing to abandon diplomacy even when parties are unwilling to communicate or when optimism for a resolution is fading. As evidence of this approach, he pointed to Türkiye’s role in facilitating prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, as well as ongoing mediation initiatives across Africa.
During his address, the President reiterated his long-standing criticism of the global power imbalance within the United Nations, specifically calling for reform of the UN Security Council. Repeating his assertion that “the world is bigger than five,” he argued that a system where the will of more than 190 nations is subject to the discretion of five permanent members is neither equitable nor capable of restoring international confidence. He noted that millions of people in regions such as Sudan, Lebanon, and Palestine, who look to the UN for support, are currently facing deep disappointment.
Erdogan concluded by rejecting any approach to international politics rooted in mistrust. He maintained that diplomacy remains a viable option for even the most complex disputes, provided that global leaders demonstrate the necessary courage, sincerity, and political will to keep communication channels open. He pledged that Türkiye would continue its efforts to bring conflicting parties together, mediate to achieve fair solutions, and assume responsibility for peace.
