Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to defending its maritime rights and interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. Speaking to reporters following a Cabinet meeting in Ankara on Monday, Erdogan emphasized that his country is not seeking to outmaneuver other nations in the region but is firmly determined to protect its national interests and maritime jurisdiction. He stated that Türkiye’s foreign policy remains guided by the country’s own interests, noting that Ankara will not hesitate to take necessary steps even if they involve significant costs.
The President defended Türkiye’s ongoing cooperation with Libya, including existing agreements regarding maritime jurisdiction, and criticized efforts that he believes aim to exclude the country from arrangements in the Eastern Mediterranean. He framed Ankara’s approach as one focused on safeguarding national interests while simultaneously pursuing regional cooperation and diplomacy.
Turning his focus to the situation in Libya, the President called for an end to internal divisions, expressing his hope that the country would achieve peace, prosperity, and security through unity. He stated that Türkiye is making sustained efforts to reduce regional disputes and strengthen alliances, adding, "Türkiye no longer wants to see division or fragmentation in Libya or in any other Muslim land." He pledged that Ankara would continue to engage in dialogue with all relevant actors to help bridge these divisions.
The President also addressed the upcoming 13th summit of the Organization of Turkic States, stressing the importance of solidarity among Turkic nations against those who seek to undermine their "unshakable brotherhood." Regarding broader regional conflicts, Erdogan said that Türkiye is working with all available means to "extinguish this fire, alleviate suffering, and stop the bloodshed," while opposing those he claims are fueling regional tensions with expansionist ambitions.
