Turkish President Recept Tayyip Erdoğan spoke at the Foreign Economic Relations Board's General Assembly on Saturday.
President Erdoğan, remarking on both the military and the economy, also touched on Turkey's membership bid to the EU.
Erdoğan spoke about Turkey's involvement in Syria, reiterating that he would not allow terrorism in Syria to impact Turkey.
“Our citizens are dying in Gaziantep and Kilis. We decided that day that we would intervene. We decided that day that we would take an active role in Syria. The north of Syria is a region of threat for Turkey. We believe that there should be a safe zone, free from terrorism. If not, Gaziantep and Kilis will always be under threat," said Erdoğan.
“There is no doubt that our martyrs have affected us all deeply, but for a piece of land to be called our home, our country, there must be martyrs and the wounded," said Erdoğan.
Turkey's President also spoke about the national campaign to mobilize against terrorism, and how the campaign was not defined by warfare but rather included investments and economy-supporting projects.
“Our 2023 goal of ranking in the world's top 10 economies can only be achieved through hard work. When I talk about a mobilization against terrorism, I am not talking about arming yourself and stepping out onto the streets," said Erdoğan, clarifying that the fight against terrorism was not limited to warfare.
“Our nation will not forget the businessmen who are supporting our country. Businessmen trusting our country are fighting against the economic blows our country has suffered," Erdoğan continued, stating that the government would continue to support businessmen and entrepreneurs.
Erdoğan also commented on Turkey's bid to enter the EU.
“The EU's decision to not accept Turkey's membership is entirely political. In our private consultations, they say 'You are Muslims, they will not accept you'. But if you ask them, they have freedom of belief. Where? You cannot order exile based on ethnic factors. What did they do to the Catholics in France?" reminded Erdoğan.
