Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that the Makkah Defense Agreement is a strong step in the right direction for the peace and security of the region.
Speaking to journalists at the Turkish House in New York, President Erdogan said that in such a sensitive and complex region, when such an important initiative comes out, it is natural to face various trials. Some circles will surely be worried by the new thinking and new political will, but Turkey is an experienced state, which will neither be provoked nor fall into any trap.
He said that this cooperation will be strengthened after the process of institutionalization of Makkah Defense Alliance is completed. The imposition of security formulas for the region by external powers has often resulted in greater instability, so now the countries of the region must come forward to solve their own problems.
President Erdoğan said that through the Makkah Defense Agreement, the foundation has been laid for finding a regional solution to the region’s problems. He expressed hope that this alliance will be the basis for stronger and more effective cooperation in the future. He said that Turkey has full confidence in its nation and its brother countries.
Regarding the reforms in the United Nations, President Erdogan said that in the current world system, the opinions of more than 190 countries are limited by the veto power of only five countries. According to him, effective protection of global peace and stability is not possible through such an unfair system.
He said that the current veto mechanism in the United Nations Security System should be abolished and a system should be established that provides more fair representation to all member states. The General Assembly also needs to be made more empowered and effective.
According to Erdogan, instead of the monopoly of only five countries, all regions, especially Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Islamic world, should get proper representation with their voice and experience in global decisions.
Regarding Gaza, he said that lasting peace in the Middle East is not possible without stopping the bloodshed, making the ceasefire permanent and providing the Palestinians with a dignified future on their land. It is not enough to stop the war, it is also necessary to rebuild Gaza, guarantee that the war does not start again and ensure the political future of the Palestinians.
Regarding Turkey’s return to the F-35 program, Erdogan said that US President Donald Trump has expressed a positive intention in this regard and Turkey now wants to see this intention transformed into practical measures.
He said that Turkey attaches primary importance to indigenous capabilities for its defense needs and is determined to develop its own combat aircraft, air defense systems and defense industrial capabilities, including these warplanes. Discussions are also ongoing with the UK regarding the Eurofighter.