A chemical explosion at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility in Longview, Washington injured multiple people Tuesday morning, prompting emergency crews to seal off the surrounding industrial area, according to local officials.

Emergency Response

The Longview fire department issued a statement on Facebook confirming that units arrived at the scene shortly after 7:30 am local time. Officials designated the incident an "active emergency response" and warned residents to avoid Industrial Way while crews continued operations at the mill. The department noted that additional information would be released as it becomes available.

Facility Location

The facility is located near the Columbia River on the border with Oregon. Authorities did not immediately provide details on the number of injuries or the cause of the explosion.

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu on Tuesday declared there is "no place" in Türkiye's Republican People’s Party (CHP) for those seeking conflict, speaking hours after a court ruling restored him to the opposition party's chairmanship and invalidated the November 2023 leadership congress. The CHP's official website has been updated to list Kılıçdaroğlu as chair following the decision, which applied the principle of "absolute nullity" to the gathering that brought Özgür Özel to power.

Speaking to TGRT News, Kılıçdaroğlu stated that "those who fight and favor division have no place under this sacred roof," adding that the party's "march to power has begun." He noted that the CHP would "purify itself" and emerge victorious from the internal crisis that has engulfed the party since the contested leadership vote nearly three years ago.

Leadership battle intensifies

Former CHP lawmaker Muslum Sarı met with Kılıçdaroğlu at his Ankara residence on Tuesday and told reporters afterward that preparations are underway for a mass rally scheduled for Saturday. Sarı said the party is following daily affairs and organizing the event while rival factions accuse each other of undermining party democracy and attempting to seize control through illegitimate means.

Sarı also addressed remarks by former CHP Chair Özgür Özel, stating that although Özel had suggested holding a congress at an appropriate time, all dialogue channels had closed when discussions began on how to proceed. "The path is clear, the roadmap is clear, and what needs to be done is clear," Sarı said, adding that he views subsequent developments as a political argument, according to local media.

Legal challenge background

The court ruling followed lawsuits filed by CHP delegates and former Hatay Mayor Lütfü Savas, who challenged the legitimacy of the November 2023 gathering over allegations of vote buying, political favors offered to delegates, and procedural violations. The court deemed the congress legally invalid under the principle of "absolute nullity" — a doctrine in Turkish law for acts considered fundamentally unlawful — and ordered the pre-congress administration reinstated on an interim basis.

The decision automatically restored Kılıçdaroğlu's administration to oversee preparations for a new congress and leadership election, effectively reopening a leadership battle that has divided Türkiye's main opposition party. CHP officials have repeatedly rejected the allegations of irregularities and submitted legal defenses during the proceedings.

Prosecutor probe continues

Separately, Ankara prosecutors launched an investigation in 2024 into allegations of vote rigging linked to the congress process, examining claims that violations compromised the integrity of the leadership vote. The plaintiffs had requested the cancellation of the results, arguing that the alleged irregularities damaged the party's internal democracy.

The legal challenges mark a major development for the CHP, which had been led by Özel since he unseated Kılıçdaroğlu in the contested internal contest. The court's ruling has triggered a fierce struggle between rival factions inside the party, with both camps trading accusations over the legitimacy of the leadership change.

Türkiye as stability anchor

“During a period when our region is struggling with crises, Türkiye stands out as an island of stability with its economy, able personnel, and strengthened internal front,” Erdogan said. He noted that Türkiye is now reaping the benefits of policies pursued over the past 23 years under the AK Party, particularly in the defense industry. “With defense and aerospace exports rising from 248 million to more than 10 billion, Türkiye is writing a rare success story in the world,” he added. Erdogan predicted that Türkiye will emerge as “one of the shining stars of the new era” once regional instability subsides.

Türkiye’s mediation role

Erdogan reiterated that Türkiye is doing whatever is necessary to promote peace, including offering mediation. Ankara has been actively involved in efforts to resolve the Iran-US conflict, despite Pakistan leading the formal mediation. Turkey has also hosted talks between Russia and Ukraine and has offered to mediate between Israel and Palestine. The president’s message underscores Turkey’s ambition to be a regional peace broker while criticizing Israeli actions that Ankara views as destabilizing.

Misleading wording

Users on social media argued that the wording implied the autonomous vehicle had caused the collision, while the article itself reportedly stated that the bus had been struck by a tram. A community note later appeared beneath the Reuters post on X, stating: "Contrary to the headline, the bus 'was' hit by a tram as stated in the article."

Social media reaction

Several users accused Reuters of damaging the reputation of Karsan through the framing of the headline. The debate spread widely among Turkish social media users, with many questioning the editorial wording and calling for greater precision in international reporting involving Turkish companies.

Karsan background

Karsan has emerged as one of Türkiye's leading exporters of electric and autonomous public transportation vehicles and operates in multiple European markets. The company has been actively expanding its presence in the autonomous vehicle sector.

Global platform

Organizers announced that the second Zero Waste Forum will assemble over 120 ministers, 200 mayors, and representatives from international organizations, local governments, and the private sector. The gathering will discuss sustainable development, climate diplomacy, and economic resilience within the framework of Zero Waste Week.

Samed Agirbas, president of the foundation and COP31 high-level climate champion, said the gathering demonstrates the unprecedented global reach achieved by the Zero Waste Movement since Emine Erdogan founded the initiative. He noted that the event has emerged as a leading civil platform for environmental policymaking.

Institutional backing

The United Nations and the World Bank have signed on as principal stakeholders, with the World Bank dispatching a 30-member delegation — one of its largest representations at a single event. Harvard University, Oxford, and Yale will also provide scientific and technical expertise throughout the sessions, Agirbas told reporters.

Agirbas noted that more than 120 ministers are expected to attend, a figure exceeding the 72 ministers who participated in last year’s UN Climate Conference. The turnout reflects Istanbul’s growing centrality as a venue for high-level international dialogue on environmental governance.

Ministerial agenda

Three ministerial sessions will focus on energy and natural resources, agriculture and forestry, and industry and technology. The meetings will examine sustainable food systems, production process redesign, and technological transformation strategies alongside the future of global energy policies.

Agirbas stated that the forum will address topics expected at COP31, including the integration of zero-waste approaches into the international climate agenda. He added that ten young delegates from Kibera — one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements — will present challenges facing disadvantaged communities.

Final declaration

The forum’s final declaration is expected to secure signatures from representatives of more than 180 countries. The outcome will cement the event’s role in positioning zero-waste policies as essential pillars of economic development and international cooperation rather than purely environmental concerns.

Message of Solidarity

In a statement shared on the domestic social media network, Erdogan offered warm greetings to African leaders and citizens. "I wholeheartedly congratulate the May 25 Africa Day and the anniversary of the founding of the African Union, and send my love and respect to all our African brothers and sisters," he said, referring to the "strong historical and human ties" uniting Türkiye with the continent. The president emphasized that Ankara remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships with African nations based on mutual respect and shared values.

Continental Engagement

The African Union traces its origins to May 25, 1963, when 32 independent African states established the Organization of African Unity in Addis Ababa — now the seat of the AU Commission. The annual commemoration serves as a platform to celebrate continental solidarity and sustainable development. Ankara has pursued an intensified diplomatic outreach strategy toward Africa since 2003, elevating engagement through three Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summits and expanding Turkish Airlines routes to more than 60 destinations across the continent, according to diplomatic sources.

Economic and Security Ties

Turkish cooperation agencies including TİKA and the Turkish Maarif Foundation maintain extensive development and educational programs throughout Africa, while bilateral trade volumes have grown substantially over the past two decades. Defense cooperation has also expanded in recent years, with several African nations acquiring Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles from Turkish manufacturers to bolster their security capabilities. The next Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summit is expected to convene in 2026, building on agreements signed during the 2021 Istanbul gathering.

Diplomatic channels

The Turkish leader told the Omani sultan that Ankara continues working alongside brotherly nations in the region to establish lasting peace and stability, according to a statement from Türkiye's Communications Directorate. Erdogan emphasized that supporting diplomatic efforts remains essential to preventing further conflict, noting that military escalation serves neither regional nor global interests.

Palestinian rights

Erdogan stated that Türkiye maintains active efforts to ensure peace in the Palestinian territories and will continue defending Palestinian rights across all international platforms. The president reaffirmed Ankara's commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause through bilateral and multilateral channels.

Erdogan conveyed his Eid al-Adha greetings to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq during the exchange, which comes as Muslims worldwide observe the annual holiday marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage. The conversation reflects ongoing coordination between Ankara and Muscat regarding regional security developments.

Favorable conditions

He said regular rainfall since autumn had created favorable conditions, while April brought one of the most significant meteorological patterns seen in the past 50 years, helping meet crop water requirements during critical stages of development. Serpi said rainfall levels in central Türkiye exceeded seasonal norms in April, noting that the region accounts for 37% of wheat cultivation areas and 31% of total wheat production.

Regional outlook

He added that rainfall in southeastern Türkiye, which accounts for around 20% of production, had also strongly supported grain development and improved yield expectations in arid regions. "In some areas of Hatay, a yield of 700-800 kilograms (1,543-1,763 pounds) is expected," he said. Grain development in northwestern and northern Türkiye has been more favorable than last year.

Production forecast

"Türkiye could achieve a wheat harvest of around 23 million tons and a barley harvest of 8.7 million tons in the 2026 production season if current climatic conditions don't cause any notable adverse effects by May," Serpi said. He noted that temperature trends during the grain-filling stage, distribution of May rainfall, and continued low drought risk will be decisive.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry on Sunday condemned the terrorist bombing of a passenger train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, expressing sorrow over the 28 deaths and reaffirming solidarity with Islamabad in the fight against terrorism.

Blast targets railway in volatile province

The explosion struck the railway line as the train traveled toward the cantonment area, killing 28 passengers and wounding 90 others, according to police. Authorities confirmed the blast targeted the busy route in the mineral-rich region, which has long faced separatist violence.

Ankara extends condolences to victims

In a written statement, the ministry said it was deeply saddened by the attack. "We strongly condemn this heinous attack and extend condolences to the families and people of Pakistan," the statement said, stressing that such violence targeting regional peace remains unacceptable under any circumstances.

Strategic corridor plagued by militancy

Balochistan serves as a major route for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and has endured decades of insurgency from separatist groups. The region’s mineral wealth and strategic location have made it a persistent flashpoint for militant activity despite ongoing security operations.

Umerov serves as the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office and leads Kyiv’s delegation in peace negotiations with Russia, engaging in multiple rounds of talks aimed at securing a ceasefire and establishing frameworks for lasting security guarantees. His visit to Türkiye comes amid sustained international pressure for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, which has persisted for over two years with no comprehensive peace settlement achieved.

Mediation Role

Ankara has maintained an active mediation role throughout the crisis, leveraging its unique position as a NATO member with established diplomatic channels to both Ukraine and Russia to facilitate dialogue between the warring parties. Turkish officials have repeatedly emphasized the necessity of a negotiated settlement based on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, while continuing to host technical talks and humanitarian coordination meetings when possible.

The Sunday meeting follows recent high-level contacts between Turkish and Ukrainian officials, though authorities declined to provide additional details about the specific agenda or duration of discussions between Fidan and Umerov. Diplomatic observers note that Türkiye remains committed to supporting peace initiatives even as battlefield conditions continue to shift across eastern Ukraine.

Railway corridor operational

Kilic described the development as a milestone in direct trade within the framework of the ongoing normalization process between Ankara and Yerevan. Posting on the social media platform X, he emphasized that the move would improve quadruple cooperation among Türkiye, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. "I hope this new step will be beneficial for all these countries," he said, adding that it would make a significant contribution to regional peace and stability.

Pashinyan welcomed the opening as a major development for Armenia’s economy and thanked partners in Türkiye and Georgia for their cooperation in establishing the link. The Armenian premier noted that his country now possesses railway access to Russia through Georgia and Azerbaijan, and to China via Russia and Kazakhstan, significantly expanding Yerevan’s connectivity options beyond traditional routes.

Future regional links

The railway route passing through Türkiye and Georgia is expected to strengthen Armenia’s connection with the European Union, according to Pashinyan’s statement. He added that rail links with Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Iran were also anticipated in the near future, further integrating Armenia into regional trade networks that have been bolstered by the recent diplomatic thaw.

Ongoing counter-terrorism cooperation

The operation underscores Türkiye’s continued commitment to cross-border counter-terrorism efforts, even as the country faces multiple security challenges, including the Iran war and instability in Syria. Türkiye has long cooperated with Syrian intelligence services since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, despite lacking formal diplomatic relations. The capture of a suspect tied to the Ankara bombing is a significant achievement for victims’ families who have sought justice for nearly 11 years.

Türkiye’s broader counter-terrorism posture

Türkiye has been actively targeting Daesh remnants in Syria and Iraq, as well as conducting operations against the PKK and its affiliates. The joint operation with Syrian intelligence suggests a pragmatic security partnership that transcends political differences. For Turkish officials, ensuring that terrorists involved in past attacks are brought to justice remains a top priority, regardless of the passage of time.

Ceasefire and diplomatic context

A ceasefire brokered by Pakistan took effect on April 8, but a first round of direct talks in Islamabad on April 11-12 failed to produce a lasting agreement. President Trump later extended the truce indefinitely. The phone call between Fidan and Araghchi underscores Türkiye’s continued diplomatic engagement, even as Pakistan leads the formal mediation. Ankara has maintained open channels with both sides and has offered to host future talks if needed. Turkey also has a direct stake in the outcome, given its reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for energy imports.

Ankara’s diplomatic role

The calls underscore Türkiye’s active diplomatic engagement in the Iran-US conflict, even as Pakistan leads the formal mediation effort. Ankara has maintained communication channels with both Tehran and Washington and has offered to host talks. Turkey also has close ties with Qatar, which has its own lines of communication with Iran. The consultations suggest that Türkiye is coordinating with other regional mediators to ensure that any potential agreement addresses Turkish interests, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and energy security.

Context

Negotiations between Iran and the US have been ongoing since a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire took effect on April 8. The first round of talks in Islamabad on April 11-12 ended without a breakthrough, but the truce has been extended indefinitely. Key sticking points include Iran’s nuclear program, the US naval blockade, and the closure of the strait. For Türkiye, which relies heavily on energy transiting Hormuz, a successful diplomatic resolution is a top priority.

Summit focus: spending and industrial capacity

Rutte confirmed that the Ankara summit will focus on increased defence spending and the path toward the 5% of GDP target, as well as the urgent need to ramp up defence industrial production on both sides of the Atlantic. “We know that today our industries are not able to produce everything we require,” he said, adding that allies must “produce faster and at greater scale.” He also noted that European allies and Canada are taking on greater responsibility, making “the whole alliance stronger, firmly anchored by the transatlantic bond.”

Zelenskyy to attend, Article 5 ‘ironclad’

Rutte confirmed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will attend the Ankara summit, having already received an invitation. He reaffirmed that allies’ commitment to Article 5 is “ironclad,” warning: “Were anyone to be foolish enough to attack us, the response would be devastating.” He added that NATO is “more aligned today than before” and that Türkiye would “put up an incredible show in Ankara.” The July summit will be the second NATO leaders’ meeting hosted by Türkiye, following Istanbul in 2004.

Family photo and summit preparation

Before the formal talks, NATO foreign ministers assembled for a traditional family photo session. The Helsingborg meeting is a key preparatory step for the NATO leaders’ summit scheduled for July 7-8 in Ankara, which Türkiye will host for the second time after Istanbul in 2004. Agenda items are expected to include transatlantic burden‑sharing, defence spending, the war in Ukraine, and the alliance’s response to the Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Türkiye’s role

Türkiye, as a NATO member with the alliance’s second‑largest military, has been increasingly vocal about its strategic importance, particularly in mediating regional crises. Fidan’s attendance underscores Ankara’s active engagement in shaping NATO’s agenda ahead of the Ankara summit. Bilateral meetings on the sidelines, including with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, also took place.

Decades of bloodshed

The ministry noted that Giotopoulos was serving 17 life sentences plus an additional 25 years for orchestrating the 1991 killing of press attaché Çetin Görgü, the attempted assassination of embassy counsellor Deniz Bölükbaşı the same year, and the 1994 murder of counsellor Haluk Sipahioğlu. “The move represents an unacceptable display of tolerance toward this vile terrorist and amounts to a grave disrespect to the memory of our martyred diplomats and their families,” the statement read.

Call for accountability

A Greek judicial panel approved Giotopoulos’s conditional release citing his advanced age. Türkiye urged Greek authorities to refrain from actions that could weaken counter‑terrorism efforts and to uphold their responsibilities regarding the punishment of convicted terrorists. The incident has further strained already tense Turkish‑Greek relations, which have also been roiled by disputes over the Aegean, Eastern Mediterranean, and the term “Turkish Straits” at the UN.

Resilience and safe‑haven status

Erdoğan emphasised that recent regional events — including the Iran war and its spillover effects — have proven Türkiye’s resilience against crises through its economy, defence industry, diplomatic capacity, social solidarity, and stable governance. “This period once again showed that our country acted as a safe haven in its region,” he said. He added that the government is determined to strengthen this exceptional aspect of Türkiye in the coming period, commissioning legal, administrative, financial, and institutional reforms.

Financial literacy and market integrity

The president congratulated the National Education Ministry and the Capital Markets Board for reaching approximately 18 million students with financial literacy content following the declaration of May 22 as Financial Literacy Day. He stressed that protecting investors and consumers from market risks remains a top priority. “Regulatory institutions must prevent manipulation and speculation to protect citizens who invest their hard‑earned savings,” Erdoğan said, adding that increasing trust in capital markets is essential to direct idle savings into value‑creating areas.

Preparations for Ankara summit

The meeting comes as NATO allies prepare for the July leaders’ summit in Ankara, where transatlantic burden‑sharing, defence spending, and the alliance’s response to the Iran war are expected to dominate the agenda. Fidan and Rubio last spoke by phone in April to discuss the Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid. Turkey and the US have also been coordinating on the Black Sea grain corridor, Syria, and counter‑terrorism.

No further details

While the Turkish Foreign Ministry did not disclose the specific topics discussed, such bilateral meetings typically cover regional crises, bilateral defence cooperation, and preparations for the upcoming summit. The Helsingborg gathering is the final foreign ministers’ meeting before the Ankara summit, making it a key moment to align positions among allies. Türkiye has increasingly positioned itself as an indispensable NATO member bridging Europe, the Black Sea, and the Middle East.

Türkiye recognized new technologies early

Dendias said: “We must admit that Türkiye has succeeded in developing significant production capacity in recent years, and this deserves every praise. It recognized new technologies early. At a time when many countries did not even know what unmanned aerial vehicles meant, Türkiye reached a certain level of UAV production.” He added that Türkiye has built a substantial export capacity, particularly selling to third-world countries and many nations in Africa, and through this effort has also generated diplomatic influence.

‘We must accept this as a fact’

The Greek minister emphasized that these achievements are undeniable. “All of this is absolutely true, and we must accept it. This is something our neighboring country has accomplished,” Dendias stated, while also stressing the close relations between Greece and European nations. His remarks mark a rare acknowledgment from a senior Greek official of Türkiye’s growing defense capabilities, particularly in the field of unmanned systems. Türkiye continues to expand its defense exports and technological cooperation with allies worldwide, with Turkish drones playing a decisive role in conflicts from the Caucasus to Eastern Europe.

NATO's top defense spender

Sikorski credited Poland’s reputation as a country that “takes defense seriously” with helping to secure continued US engagement within the alliance. He noted that Warsaw, alongside Lithuania, ranks as NATO’s highest defense spender relative to GDP — allocating 4.7% last year and 4.8% this year.

Ukraine support and Ankara preparations

The Polish minister also expressed optimism regarding developments in Ukraine, stating that Kyiv had received additional resources from the European Union while US-made weapons financed by European partners continued to flow to the battlefield. “Things are looking up,” Sikorski said, adding that Moscow should recalculate its strategy given the sustained Western support.

Friday’s ministerial gathering in Sweden is focused on preparations for the NATO summit in Ankara, where allied leaders are expected to discuss burden-sharing, regional security challenges, and further assistance for Ukraine. The meeting brings together foreign ministers from the 32-member alliance to finalize the agenda for the leaders' gathering in Türkiye's capital.

Rescue efforts

Following torrential rains that claimed three lives, an extensive search is being carried out in the Karaçay locality by AFAD, Coast Guard, fire department, gendarmerie, and volunteer NGO rescue teams. The combined efforts include ground searches, drone surveillance, and tracking dogs to locate the missing individuals.

Weather impact

The severe flooding in Hatay follows heavy rainfall that caused waterways to swell, sweeping away victims. Turkey has experienced increasingly extreme weather events linked to climate change, with flooding becoming more frequent in coastal provinces.

Safety warnings

Authorities have urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas during heavy rain and to heed weather warnings. Search operations continue as hope remains for finding the missing individuals.

Advanced autonomous coordination

The drones were launched and monitored by a single human operator, leveraging domestically developed algorithms and a distributed architecture to autonomously navigate the combat zone. The swarm’s intelligence system enabled real‑time communication to identify, classify, and distribute targets once in the designated airspace. The drones executed a simultaneous dive and detonated their anti‑personnel warheads with high accuracy. STM General Manager Ozgur Guleryuz stated that the deployment demonstrated the operational maturity of autonomous systems on the battlefield.

Proven combat system

The baseline Kargu system, fully developed through domestic means, entered Turkish Armed Forces inventory in 2018. The rotary‑wing drone has been extensively used for counter‑terrorism, special forces, and cross‑border operations. STM has exported the system to 15 countries. Kargu features electro‑optical and infrared cameras for precision day‑and‑night strikes, over 30 minutes of endurance, a 10‑km operational range, and in‑house software allowing effective operation even when GPS is jammed. The success marks a major milestone for Türkiye’s rapidly growing defence industry.

Diplomatic coordination

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said earlier Thursday that Ankara had arranged special flights to return Turkish citizens and international participants to Türkiye. "A special flight has been planned to bring our citizens and third-country nationals back," Fidan told reporters, noting that the Foreign Ministry had coordinated the operation with Israeli authorities.

Flotilla seized in international waters

The Global Sumud Flotilla stated Tuesday that Israeli forces had seized all 50 vessels in its convoy following attacks in international waters. The flotilla — which carried 428 people from 44 countries — departed last Thursday from the Turkish district of Marmaris in a renewed attempt to break the blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007, organizers said.

The activists had attempted to deliver humanitarian supplies to the Gaza Strip, which has been under Israeli blockade since 2007. Thursday's deportations conclude a week-long detention that began when Israeli forces boarded the vessels in international waters.

Praise for Erdoğan as a strong ally

Asked about his phone call with Erdoğan, Trump said: “We had a very good phone call with President Erdoğan. We have a very good relationship. He is a strong person, but I have a relationship with him that nobody else has. I think he has been a very good ally. Some may doubt that, but I think he has been a great ally, and his people respect him.”

Warning on Iran negotiations

Trump also commented on ongoing negotiations with Iran, saying that the leaders currently in talks are more “reasonable” and “sensible” than previous figures. “If we get a deal, we save a lot of time, energy, and most importantly, lives. We need to get the right answer from them – a completely 100% correct response. Otherwise, things will move very quickly. I must say we are dealing with very good people. Capable and smart people. I hope they make a deal that will be great for everyone.” Türkiye has consistently supported diplomatic solutions to the Iran crisis and continues to serve as a key regional partner for both Washington and Tehran.

Standing against war and chaos

“As Türkiye, we will continue to stand for peace and stability against those investing in war and chaos,” Erdoğan said. His comments come amid intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, where thousands of civilians have been killed. Türkiye has consistently condemned Israeli actions, providing humanitarian aid to Gaza and supporting diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire.

Military readiness and regional role

The EFES-2026 exercise, one of the Turkish Armed Forces’ largest drills, includes over 10,000 personnel from 50 countries. Erdoğan’s speech at the event underscored Türkiye’s military readiness and its growing diplomatic weight. Ankara has positioned itself as a mediator in regional crises, including the Iran war, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the Israeli-Palestinian front. Erdoğan reaffirmed that Türkiye will not remain silent in the face of what he termed genocide.

Humanitarian commitment

The statement stressed that Türkiye will continue to protect the rights of its citizens while fulfilling its humanitarian responsibilities toward civilians in Gaza. Fidan reaffirmed Ankara’s continued support for the Palestinian people. The flotilla, carrying 428 people from 44 countries, departed from Marmaris last Thursday in an attempt to break Israel’s 2007 blockade on Gaza. Israeli forces attacked the aid mission in international waters, detaining all activists on board.

International response

Ten countries, including seven European nations, had summoned Israeli envoys to protest the incident. All detained activists were later released from Ktziot prison and transferred for deportation. Türkiye has been a vocal supporter of the flotilla and condemned the Israeli interception as an act of piracy. Ankara is expected to receive returning citizens and third-country nationals in the coming hours.

More than food

“The memory of a nation sometimes lives in a folk song, and sometimes in hearts gathered around the same table,” Duran wrote. He emphasised that Turkish cuisine has for centuries represented not merely sustenance but also “sharing, abundance, hospitality and culture.” The event highlights how food traditions preserve collective memory and foster social bonds across generations.

Gratitude to culinary custodians

Duran expressed thanks to chefs, producers, and all those who contribute to preserving and passing down Turkish culinary traditions to future generations, congratulating participants on Turkish Cuisine Week. The annual celebration, part of Türkiye’s broader cultural diplomacy efforts, has gained international recognition, promoting Anatolian cuisine as a cornerstone of the country’s soft power. Turkish Cuisine Week coincides with similar heritage-focused events that reinforce national identity and cultural pride.

Celebrating traditional culture

World Ethnosport Confederation President Bilal Erdoğan welcomed participants, stating that visitors would collectively experience the richness of traditional culture throughout the festival. He highlighted activities including wrestling competitions, equestrian sports, and workshops designed to engage children and families with traditional arts and heritage. “Over these four days, we will once again experience the richness of our culture together. With our children and elders, we will breathe in the spirit and atmosphere of tradition as families,” Erdoğan said.

International participation and opening

Erdoğan noted that the festival would host guest artists, athletes, and cultural figures from around the world. He emphasised that children attending would experience how valuable and meaningful cultural richness truly is. Following his speeches, Erdoğan officially opened the festival by cutting a ribbon together with children. The Ethnosport Festival has grown into a major cultural event, reflecting Türkiye’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional sports and heritage amid rapid modernisation.

Awaiting confirmation

He noted that it has not yet been officially confirmed, adding: "That is what is already being discussed among the consuls and what is being observed on the ground." The Global Sumud humanitarian aid flotilla said Tuesday that all 50 vessels in its convoy had been seized by Israel.

Flotilla details

The flotilla, carrying 428 people from 44 countries, departed last Thursday from the Turkish district of Marmaris in a new attempt to break the Israeli blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007. Israel has faced international condemnation for its interception of the flotilla and treatment of activists.

International response

Several countries, including Italy and Poland, have summoned Israeli diplomats to protest the treatment of their citizens. Italy called the events "unacceptable" and demanded an apology over the treatment of activists shown zip-tied and forced to kneel in a video posted by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

‘Barbarity exposed’

In a statement posted on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal, Duran said: “I strongly condemn the intervention carried out against the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters, as well as the aggressive treatment of those on board the flotilla, which had set out to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.” He added that the verbal and physical attacks against civilians once again “clearly exposed the Israeli administration’s lawless conduct and its disregard for human dignity and universal humanitarian values.” Referring to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Duran said: “The barbarity displayed by a genocidal Israeli minister towards the activists has taken its place among the darkest pages of history.”

Call for release of volunteers

Duran called for the safe return of all detained aid volunteers to their home countries and stressed that Türkiye, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s leadership, will continue to stand with “the oppressed” and defend “the just cause of the people of Gaza on every platform.” Türkiye has been at the forefront of international efforts to break the Gaza blockade and has repeatedly condemned Israel’s interception of civilian aid missions.

UN Security Council session

Speaking during an open session of the UN Security Council titled Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict in Hamilton, Canada, Yildiz emphasized that protection of civilians must remain a top priority for the international community. "Selective approaches to international law undermine the credibility of the international legal system and erode confidence in multilateral institutions," he said, adding that double standards in the application of international law cannot be tolerated.

Cyprus atrocities documented

Referring to the eastern Mediterranean island, Yildiz noted that Turkish Cypriots between 1963 and 1964 experienced political exclusion, violence, displacement, and isolation. Atrocities committed against Turkish Cypriot civilians during this period were well documented in UN archives, he stated, underscoring the historical importance of accountability mechanisms.

Middle East crises

Turning to the Middle East, Yildiz said humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip remain dire despite the ceasefire and called for urgent progress toward a two-state solution. On Lebanon, he stressed the importance of preserving the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability, describing the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire as an important step that should be built upon.

Regarding Syria, Yildiz said the Syrian people now have a historic opportunity to build a future based on safety, dignity, and equal citizenship. He welcomed accountability efforts for crimes committed under the former regime, noting that Türkiye strongly supports international efforts aimed at ensuring accountability and deterring violations of international humanitarian law.

Africa conflicts

Addressing Africa, Yildiz said Sudan's humanitarian crisis remains catastrophic and requires urgent international attention. He reaffirmed Ankara's support for a Libyan-led political dialogue to resolve the protracted conflict in the North African state.

Ceasefire and regional files

Erdogan expressed confidence that a reasonable solution to disputed issues remains possible regarding Tehran, the Turkish Communications Directorate said. Ankara will continue supporting constructive initiatives to resolve conflicts while working to establish lasting stability in Syria — an important gain for the entire region — and prevent further deterioration in Lebanon, he added.

NATO Summit and hate crimes

Erdogan noted that preparations for the NATO Summit in Ankara are progressing and that maximum efforts are being made to ensure its success in every aspect. He also conveyed his condolences to Trump for a recent attack on a mosque in the US state of California, stressing that Türkiye opposes hate crimes targeting any religious group.

Trump praises 'very good' call

Trump later told reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland that the conversation was "very good," hailing his personal relationship with the Turkish president. "Isn't it nice that I have relationships with some very tough people? He's a tough guy, and I have a relationship with him that nobody else does," he said. "He's been very much of an ally — some people would doubt that, but I think he's been a great ally, and his people respect him a lot," Trump added.

Long-term deterrence

Shekerinska told attendees that maintaining security across the alliance requires sustained commitments rather than temporary measures. "In order to continue protecting our alliance, we need strong military deterrence, we need a strong defense posture," she said. She stressed that elevated defense spending must continue "not just for now, but for years to come," adding that enhanced military capabilities remain the most effective means of preventing conflict.

Ankara’s alliance role

The NATO official highlighted Türkiye’s planned spending increases as impressive demonstrations of its commitment to both the alliance and broader regional security. She noted that Ankara has long exceeded NATO’s 2% GDP defense benchmark — even during periods when numerous allies fell short — and maintains the organization’s second-largest army. "We always stress that Türkiye has been an invaluable ally for nearly 75 years," Shekerinska said, citing contributions across maritime, land, and air domains while adding that Ankara remains committed to further increases aligned with collective spending goals.

Evolving security challenges

Shekerinska identified threats stretching from the Arctic to the Mediterranean and Black Sea region, including missile and drone attacks, cyber threats, and instability in NATO’s southern neighborhood. She urged allies to accelerate defense industrial production to ensure credible deterrence capabilities against these persistent dangers. The upcoming summit presents a crucial opportunity to demonstrate delivery on commitments made in The Hague last year regarding increased defense investments, she noted.

Panel participants

Following her keynote address, Türkiye’s Permanent Representative to NATO Ambassador Basat Oztürk, National Defense Commission Chair Hulusi Akar, NATO Acting Assistant Secretary General for Operations Burcu San, and Belgian Air Force Maj. Gen. Harold Van Pee joined discussions on adapting the alliance to emerging risks. The panel highlighted Ankara’s longstanding contribution to collective security and its role in addressing modern warfare challenges. The event formed part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to reinforce transatlantic cooperation ahead of critical alliance meetings.

Iran and Hormuz

Ministers are also expected to discuss developments related to Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, including their implications for Euro-Atlantic security and the broader global security environment. NATO's southern flank policies and recent developments affecting Euro-Atlantic security, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war, are also expected to be on the agenda.

NATO-Ukraine Council

The meeting will begin May 21 with an informal working dinner of the NATO-Ukraine Council attended by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Fidan is expected to reaffirm Türkiye's support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while highlighting Ankara's diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

Ankara summit preparations

On May 22, the meeting will continue with a session attended only by the foreign ministers of NATO's 32 member states. Fidan is expected to brief allies on preparations for the Ankara summit, outline Türkiye's expectations, and stress Ankara's efforts to ensure the meeting demonstrates NATO unity and cohesion.

Bilateral relations

The meeting likely focused on strengthening bilateral ties between Türkiye and Mauritania, as Ankara has been expanding its diplomatic and economic engagement with African nations in recent years. Türkiye's Africa strategy emphasizes cooperation in trade, defense, and development.

Regional context

The talks come amid ongoing regional tensions following the US-Israeli war on Iran and continued diplomatic efforts to maintain a fragile ceasefire. Türkiye has been actively engaged in mediation efforts across multiple conflicts.

Strategic significance

The project was described as significant in light of recent developments in the Strait of Hormuz, as it could reduce NATO's reliance on maritime fuel transport while improving fuel sustainment and interoperability among allies. "Our project is five times more cost-effective than its alternatives and, if approved, will become operational in a much shorter period," according to a ministry statement.

Patriot deployment

Touching upon air defense systems deployed in Türkiye, officials said the issue is being coordinated with allied countries. In addition to the Spanish Patriot system already deployed, NATO assigned two additional Patriot systems following the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran. One of these systems will be rotated by Germany, with the rotation expected to be completed in June.

Türkiye's strategic role

Officials underlined Türkiye's role as a key NATO ally, citing its experienced armed forces, active position within the alliance, growing defense industry, and strategic location between Europe, the Black Sea, the Caucasus, and the Middle East. European countries are increasingly recognizing Türkiye's strategic role in future European security architecture.

Tourism numbers continue to rise

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu in Antalya, where she concluded a weeklong tour of Türkiye’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Morris said: “When I arrived in 2023 there were 3.8 million British visitors (annually) and we now have almost 4½ million British visitors coming to Türkiye, and I'm sure that those numbers will continue to grow.” She noted that Türkiye is a popular destination not only for its beaches but also for its rich culture, archaeological sites, and cuisine. British visitors remain the third-largest group of tourists to Türkiye by nationality.

Strategic partnership and defense cooperation

Morris highlighted the recent signing of a new bilateral strategic partnership framework during Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s visit to London, laying the groundwork for deeper collaboration. She noted that the UK and Türkiye are already working together in the Balkans and are looking to expand into Africa and other regions. On defense, she said cooperation continues to grow, with opportunities to strengthen NATO’s overall defense capability. She also confirmed that negotiations for a modernized free trade agreement are continuing, with another round expected soon in Ankara.

NATO summit and post-Assad Syria

Morris emphasized the importance of Türkiye hosting the NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara this July, saying the UK looks forward to working closely with Turkish colleagues in the run-up to the event. She also noted that the UK is working closely with Türkiye and the new Syrian government to support a secure, united, and prosperous Syria in the post-Assad era. Reflecting on her three-year term ending soon, Morris said serving in Türkiye had been a “tremendous honor and privilege.”

Historical allegations and counter-claims

The ministry accused Greece of advancing “groundless allegations” through legislation adopted in 1994 over the Pontus issue and noted that such narratives are unfortunately being taught in Greek schools. “Greece should cease exploiting history for political concerns,” the statement read. Ankara argued that Athens is trying to “cover up” its historical defeat and alleged atrocities committed during its military campaign in Anatolia. The ministry cited “war crimes and atrocities” by the Greek army, documented in Allied investigation commission reports and Article 59 of the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne.

Call for peace and cooperation

Türkiye also reminded Greece of historical events including the Tripolitsa massacre of 1821 and violence following the occupation of Izmir on May 15, 1919. “We invite Greece, instead of distorting facts and deriving hostility from history, to take an attitude that will develop our bilateral relations in peace and cooperation,” the ministry said. The exchange comes amid broader regional tensions, with Türkiye and Greece remaining at odds over Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean issues, though both are NATO allies. Ankara has consistently called for dialogue and confidence-building measures.

Ceasefire efforts and the Strait of Hormuz

Erdoğan stated that Türkiye has been actively working to maintain a ceasefire and secure peace in the ongoing regional conflict, adding that the Strait of Hormuz should be reopened as soon as possible. He accused Israel of seeking to prolong regional conflicts and continuing to violate international law — including acts described as piracy — and stressed the need to increase international pressure on Israel.

Economic integration and security cooperation

The Turkish president underlined that Türkiye’s inclusion in Europe’s security strategy initiatives would be mutually beneficial. He called for an update to the Turkish-EU Customs Union and urged expanded cooperation across all fields to strengthen economic integration and advance shared interests. The call reflects Ankara’s continued push for closer engagement with Brussels amid heightened geopolitical turbulence, including the Iran war, energy supply disruptions, and instability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Significance of the day

May 19 is a national holiday dedicated to youth and sports, reflecting Atatürk's belief that "youth are the guardians of the revolution." The day is celebrated across Türkiye with ceremonies, sports events, and visits to Anıtkabir.

Anıtkabir visit

The children's visit to Atatürk's mausoleum represents the passing of his legacy to younger generations. Anıtkabir, located in Ankara, is a significant national monument where thousands pay tribute to the founder of modern Turkey.

Youth and Sports Day

The holiday emphasizes the importance of youth in shaping the nation's future and encourages participation in sports and physical activities. Schools and sports clubs organize events nationwide to commemorate the day.

Flotilla attack

Israeli forces have seized more than 40 of the 54 vessels from the Gaza-bound flotilla and detained around 300 activists. The flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid, was attacked in international waters as it sought to break Israel's 17-year blockade of Gaza.

International condemnation

Ten countries, including Türkiye, Pakistan, Spain, and Brazil, have condemned Israel's attacks on the flotilla. Foreign ministers of these nations called the attacks a "clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law" and demanded the immediate release of all detained activists.

Previous incidents

Israeli forces previously intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla in April, detaining more than 170 activists, including 20 Turkish nationals. Activists reported being subjected to sexual violence and beatings during detention.

Ceasefire context

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran in February. Tehran retaliated with strikes targeting Israel as well as US allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement.

Trump's postponement

President Trump later extended the truce indefinitely, giving way to diplomacy. On Monday, he said he postponed a planned military attack on Iran after a request from Gulf leaders and that "serious negotiations" are underway. Trump said Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE believe a deal is close to being sealed.

Turkish diplomacy

Türkiye has maintained active diplomatic engagement throughout the conflict, with Fidan holding numerous calls with regional and international counterparts to advocate for de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

“From the German government’s perspective, it is highly desirable that we continue to expand the strategic relations between Türkiye and the European Union,” he said, highlighting security and defense among areas of common interest.

Germany backs broader role for Türkiye

Wadephul said Germany supports taking Türkiye fully into account as the European Union develops defense policies and industrial initiatives aimed at strengthening Europe’s military capabilities.

He described Türkiye as an important NATO ally and a major trading partner for the EU.

Support for Customs Union modernization

The German foreign minister also reiterated Berlin’s support for modernizing the EU-Türkiye Customs Union and said Germany would contribute positively to Türkiye’s European Union accession process.

He added that if Türkiye seeks EU membership, Germany would remain “a friendly and reliable partner,” while noting that full membership depends on meeting the bloc’s political and economic criteria.

He said the economy expanded by 3.6% last year, pushing gross domestic product to $1.6 trillion and per capita income to $18,040.

Exports and trade continue to grow

Erdogan said Türkiye’s foreign trade volume reached $820 billion, while total goods and services exports rose to $396 billion, with a target of surpassing $400 billion in the near future.

He added that April exports increased 22.3% year-on-year to $25.4 billion, becoming the second-highest monthly export figure in the republic’s history, while annualized goods exports climbed 4.2% to $275.8 billion in 2026.

Defense and tourism sectors highlighted

The president said services exports increased 8.7-fold since 2002, reaching $122.6 billion in 2025 and making Türkiye the world’s sixth-largest service-surplus generating nation.

He also pointed to growth in the defense industry, noting that defense and aerospace exports exceeded $10 billion last year, while agreements worth $8 billion were signed during the SAHA 2026 International Defense and Aerospace Exhibition.

Tourism revenues, he said, rose 4.2% in the first quarter of 2026 to $9.9 billion after Türkiye welcomed 64 million visitors in 2025 and generated $65.2 billion in tourism income.

Employment and investment

Erdogan said employment reached 32.5 million people and unemployment remained in single digits for 35 consecutive months.

He also stated that international investors established around 89,000 companies in Türkiye over the past 23 years, investing $290 billion, creating jobs for 1.2 million people and generating approximately $70 billion in annual exports.

Calls for fair market practices

The president said authorities would continue strict inspections against opportunistic pricing and urged businesses to preserve fair trade practices.

A meeting at Dolmabahce

The reception took place at the Presidential Dolmabahce Working Office in Istanbul, according to Turkish diplomatic sources. The meeting, closed to press cameras, was also attended by the boy’s father and aunt. During the gathering, young Ramadan presented President Erdogan with a book he had written as a token of gratitude.

From Gaza to Istanbul with a message of hope

Despite his young age, Ramadan Abu Jazar has amassed 1.5 million followers on Instagram, where he regularly posts content depicting daily life in Gaza, often conducting informal interviews with residents. His social media biography states that his mission is “spreading hope through words.” His videos offer a rare window into the struggles and resilience of Palestinian families under Israeli bombardment and siege. Türkiye has consistently opened its doors to Gazans fleeing conflict, and Erdogan’s meeting with the young influencer underscores Ankara’s moral and diplomatic support for the Palestinian cause.

No further details disclosed

No additional information about the meeting’s agenda was released. However, the gesture was widely interpreted as a symbolic embrace of Palestinian civilians, especially children, who continue to endure the brunt of the ongoing war.

Ankara demands release of activists

In a written statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said Israeli forces intervened against the flotilla, which included citizens from nearly 40 countries. “We condemn the intervention carried out by Israeli forces in international waters against the Global Sumud Flotilla, which constitutes a new act of piracy,” the ministry said. It added that Israel’s “attacks and intimidation policies” will not prevent international solidarity with the Palestinian people. Ankara called on Israel to immediately halt the intervention and unconditionally release all detained participants. Turkish authorities are taking necessary steps to ensure the safe return of Turkish citizens aboard the flotilla and are coordinating closely with other countries.

Flotilla attacked in international waters

The Israeli army attacked the flotilla on Monday in international waters. Live broadcasts showed Israeli naval forces intercepting the vessels one by one. The Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported that detained activists were being transferred to a navy ship described as a “floating prison” before being taken to the port of Ashdod. The Global Sumud Flotilla has demanded “safe passage” for its humanitarian mission, accusing Israel of “illegal acts of piracy” aimed at maintaining a “genocidal siege” on Gaza. Türkiye has consistently supported civilian initiatives to break the Gaza blockade and has called on the international community to ensure safe passage for humanitarian missions.

'Open invitation'

Speaking at the reception, Cinema General Director Birol Güven said the event aimed to serve as an "open invitation" for foreign filmmakers to come to Türkiye. The Turkish film and TV industry is no longer just a field producing content, but has become a major industry exporting production power to the world, Güven said. "Türkiye has become a powerful hub for international productions not only with its natural beauty, but also with its technical infrastructure, skilled crews, strong production capacity and dynamic industry."

Micro dramas for promotion

Güven noted that Türkiye is the first and only country producing micro dramas to promote film locations, with clips available on the "Go Türkiye" YouTube channel. He also noted that while Istanbul is widely recognized, many other regions across Türkiye offer rich filming opportunities.

Turkish actors speak

Actor Engin Altan Düzyatan told Anadolu that Türkiye has the world's second-largest television series industry after the US, offering extensive technical capabilities, historical and natural filming locations, and geographic diversity. Actress Özge Gürel emphasized that Türkiye is "a natural film set," adding that "every corner of Türkiye has its own unique beauty."

Cannes Film Market stand

Türkiye also opened a stand at the Cannes Film Market, hosting Turkish sales agencies and industry representatives to increase the international circulation of Turkish films and provide information about co-production opportunities, the incentive system, and filming processes.

Ceasefire context

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran in February. Tehran retaliated with strikes targeting Israel as well as US allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement. US President Donald Trump later extended the truce indefinitely.

Iran's position

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently said Tehran is trying to maintain the ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance, but trust is lacking in the US. He also stated that all vessels except those of countries at war with Iran can transit the Strait of Hormuz.

Turkish diplomacy

Türkiye has maintained active diplomatic engagement throughout the conflict, with Fidan holding numerous calls with regional and international counterparts to advocate for de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

Diplomatic delegation honors community

Türkiye’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ahmet Yildiz and his wife Emine Yildiz attended the proceedings, as did Consul General in New York Muhittin Ahmet Yazal. Onal extended his gratitude to the Federation of Turkish American Associations and various delegations from Türkiye for sustaining the decades-long tradition. The parade has served as a vital platform for showcasing Turkish heritage to American society while maintaining strong cultural ties to the homeland.

Community expansion and institutional goals

Addressing members of the Turkish community gathered at the festival grounds, Onal said the embassy is "extremely pleased" to see the community expanding in numbers and expressed pride in its achievements. "We are proud to be representatives here of Türkiye, whose influence in the world is steadily increasing," he stated, adding that strengthening communication and solidarity within the Turkish American community remains a primary priority for the embassy and consulates across the US.

Outreach and upcoming events

Onal called upon Turkish Americans to maintain regular contact with diplomatic missions through social media platforms and official websites, noting that community leaders are expected to contribute actively to these outreach efforts. He also invited attendees to support the Turkish national football team, which will travel to the United States next month to participate in FIFA World Cup events. The ambassador emphasized that sustained engagement between the diaspora and diplomatic representatives would further enhance Türkiye's standing in Washington.

Kazakhstan visit strengthens Turkic cooperation

Erdogan said Ankara and Astana had elevated bilateral ties through a new Declaration on Eternal Friendship and Expanded Strategic Partnership signed during his visit, noting that 12 agreements were sealed across various sectors. He highlighted that nearly 5,500 Turkish companies have invested around $6 billion in Kazakhstan while Turkish contractors have undertaken projects worth nearly $30 billion — with the two countries aiming to increase bilateral trade from $10 billion to $15 billion.

Attending the informal Organization of Turkic States summit in Turkistan, Erdogan said leaders signed the Turkistan Declaration to enhance cooperation through digitalization and artificial intelligence. He emphasized Ankara's support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus's participation in the organization, describing the TRNC as "an inseparable part of the Turkic world" and stating that the Turkic world is embracing the Turkish Cypriot people by fulfilling its responsibilities.

NATO summit and EU ties

The Turkish president addressed expectations for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, saying the alliance faces a "historic decision" regarding the future of global security architecture and emphasizing that fair burden-sharing is essential for the bloc's effectiveness. Erdogan noted that recent developments have increased the importance of the Ankara summit, adding that sincere cooperation and a common understanding of security are necessary as threats have become more complex since the alliance's founding.

On EU relations, Erdogan criticized "discriminatory attitudes" and "shallow statements" from within the bloc while describing Türkiye as "a major opportunity" for Europe. He said Brussels has reached "a crossroads" in its approach to membership talks, warning that inconsistent policies harm the EU at a time of major global transformations and emphasizing that Ankara remains firmly committed to its full membership vision.

Defense industry and US cooperation

Regarding defense ties with Washington, Erdogan said talks over the F-35 fighter jet program were ongoing and expressed hope for a positive outcome. He highlighted the domestically developed fifth-generation fighter jet KAAN as the beginning of a broader transformation in Türkiye's defense industry, noting that the recent SAHA 2026 defense fair in Istanbul attracted more than 150,000 visitors and generated $8 billion in business volume.

Türkiye's ambassador to the United Nations said on Friday that Syria has remained among the least affected countries by regional turmoil since December 2024, describing the nation's gradual move toward sustainable stability as encouraging despite ongoing Israeli military actions. Speaking before the Security Council in New York, Ahmet Yıldız noted that Syria has been moving "slowly but surely" toward stability since the change in government late last year.

Yıldız criticized Israel's military activities in Syria as destabilizing while praising Syrian authorities for adhering to the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement. "We reiterate our call on Israel to fully comply with this agreement without delay, refrain from further escalatory actions, and reverse its encroachment," he said, emphasizing that preserving stability in southern Syria remains essential for broader regional security.

Political transition and accountability

The Turkish envoy welcomed recent judicial proceedings aimed at holding officials from the former Syrian regime accountable for alleged human rights abuses. He described the planned convening of Syria's People's Assembly as "an important milestone" in the country's political reconstruction process.

Yıldız stressed the importance of completing the integration process in northeastern Syria and maintaining a unified state structure throughout the country. "There is no room for dual structures within the military, judiciary, or administration of a united Syria," he told council members.

Economic recovery and regional connectivity

Yıldız pointed to early signs of economic recovery emerging across Syria, noting that recent disruptions to regional trade routes linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have highlighted Damascus's strategic importance as a regional transit hub. "A stable and unified Syria can serve as a vital nexus connecting the Middle East, Türkiye, and Europe through trade, transportation, energy, and infrastructure networks," he said.

He cited a recent agreement signed by Türkiye, Syria, and Jordan to strengthen road and railway connectivity as part of broader regional integration efforts. The ambassador acknowledged that major challenges remain, particularly in rebuilding critical infrastructure damaged during years of conflict.

Security threats and humanitarian support

Yıldız warned that landmines, unexploded ordnance, and chemical weapons remnants continue to pose serious risks across Syria despite the decline in large-scale violence. The ambassador further cautioned that the threat posed by ISIS (Daesh) remains significant, warning that the terror group could attempt to exploit regional instability to regroup in ungoverned spaces.

He reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to humanitarian assistance for Syria, noting Ankara's longstanding role in facilitating the UN cross-border aid mechanism over the past decade. Although that mechanism has ended, he said Türkiye would continue supporting UN humanitarian operations in coordination with Syrian authorities and international partners.

Ankara appreciates contributions

The ministry said it appreciated the contributions made by all relevant parties to the negotiation process. “We hope that this agreement will give momentum to efforts aimed at finding a comprehensive political solution to the conflict in Yemen,” the statement read. Türkiye has long supported UN-led mediation efforts to end the decade-long civil war in Yemen, which has caused one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

Commitment to Yemen’s unity and peace

“Türkiye will continue to support efforts to preserve Yemen’s territorial integrity and national unity, and to ensure lasting peace in the country,” the ministry added. The prisoner swap deal marks a rare step toward confidence-building between the warring sides, though a comprehensive political settlement remains elusive. Ankara continues to advocate for dialogue and reconciliation as the only viable path to end the suffering of the Yemeni people.

Defense and industrial cooperation needed

“Crises in Palestine, Lebanon, Iran, Ukraine, and many others indicate that we need to strengthen our defense and increase our cooperation in the industrial sector,” Erdoğan said. He noted that Türkiye aims to advance coordination in cybersecurity within the OTS during its upcoming term, stressing that cybersecurity is now as vital as security in land, air, and maritime domains. He also expressed hope that the Turkic world will continue to strengthen political, economic, and cultural relations with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Common alphabet and AI initiatives

Erdoğan called for the widespread use of a common Turkic alphabet across education, culture, academic collaboration, and digital transformation. He added that AI-based initiatives, including a Turkish language model designed to showcase the richness of the shared language in the digital sphere, should be supported. Türkiye continues to lead efforts to deepen integration among Turkic states, viewing the OTS as a key platform for regional stability, economic growth, and cultural unity.

Bilateral agenda

The closed-door meeting was held at the hotel where Erdoğan was staying and was also attended by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. While no further details about the content of the discussions were released, such meetings typically cover bilateral trade, defence cooperation, investment opportunities, and regional issues. Türkiye and Uzbekistan have significantly deepened ties in recent years, with bilateral trade volume growing steadily and Turkish companies active in Uzbek infrastructure, energy, and construction sectors.

Strategic context

The Erdoğan-Mirziyoyev meeting follows a series of high-level visits and agreements between Ankara and Tashkent, including defence industry cooperation and cultural exchanges. Both leaders are also participating in the wider OTS summit, which focuses on artificial intelligence, digital development, and economic integration among Turkic nations. The meeting underscores Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening relations with Central Asian republics as part of its broader Eurasian foreign policy.

Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrived in the historic Kazakh city of Turkistan on Friday to participate in the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, marking another high-level engagement in Central Asia for the Turkish leader. Erdogan was welcomed at Hazret Sultan International Airport by Kazakh State Counselor Erlan Qarin, Turkistan Region Governor Nuralgan Kucherov, and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Ankara Yerkebulan Sapiyev, among other senior officials.

First lady Emine Erdogan accompanied the president alongside the Turkish delegation, underscoring the diplomatic significance of the visit. The arrival ceremony reflected the deepening institutional ties between Ankara and Astana within the framework of Turkic multilateral cooperation.

Summit Agenda

The informal summit convenes at the invitation of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who has positioned Turkistan — a city of historical importance to the Turkic world — as a symbolic venue for the gathering. Leaders are expected to discuss regional cooperation, economic integration, and shared security challenges during the closed-door sessions scheduled for Friday.

The Organization of Turkic States has emerged as a key platform for Ankara’s Central Asia policy, facilitating coordination on trade corridors, cultural exchanges, and strategic partnerships across the Eurasian landmass. Friday’s meeting follows recent diplomatic activity among member capitals aimed at consolidating institutional mechanisms.

Regional Leaders Convene

Beyond Erdogan, the summit brings together Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus President Tufan Erhurman. The presence of the TRNC leader marks continued efforts by the organization to deepen engagement with the Turkish Cypriot administration despite ongoing diplomatic isolation by other international bodies.

The leaders’ gathering in Turkistan represents the latest attempt to align strategic interests among Turkic-majority states, with discussions likely to address connectivity projects linking the Caspian and Mediterranean basins. The summit concludes Friday evening with a joint statement expected to emphasize solidarity on issues ranging from transport infrastructure to humanitarian coordination.

Transatlantic vision and defence industrial growth

In a video message, Turkish Communications Director Burhanettin Duran said: “In our 74-year journey with NATO, we have faced many challenges and difficulties. Each time, in keeping with the principle of mutual loyalty, we have managed to overcome these tests.” Presidential advisor Cagri Erhan added: “As during the conditions in the early 1950s, the United States and Türkiye will play the leading role for this new era of transformation.” Former US Ambassador to Türkiye James Jeffrey noted that Türkiye has played a decisive role in every major security challenge from Ukraine to the Middle East.

Defence industrial shift and ‘responsible adult’

Rich Outzen of the Atlantic Council pointed to growing US-Turkish defence industrial cooperation, saying: “The new paradigm is Türkiye makes good enough stuff that there are actually US companies that want to buy it,” citing collaboration in shipbuilding, drones, and AI. Roger Kangas of the Caspian Policy Center suggested Türkiye “may have to be the responsible adult in the room” to bridge diverging allies. The Ankara summit is expected to showcase Türkiye’s role as an indispensable NATO member bridging Europe, the Black Sea, and the Middle East.