Ankara, December 14, 2024 – The Europe Today: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently delivered a poignant address highlighting the intricacies of diplomacy and the lessons learned over his two-decade leadership on the international stage.
Speaking on Saturday, Erdogan described diplomacy as “a delicate art,” emphasizing the intelligence, foresight, and strategic patience necessary to navigate global politics. “Diplomacy, much like politics, is a delicate art,” Erdogan stated. “It requires intelligence, experience, foresight, insight, prudence, and strategic patience. It demands the ability to calculate not just the next few moves but ten moves ahead.”
Reflecting on his government’s extensive experience in global affairs, Erdogan acknowledged the challenges Türkiye has faced during his tenure. “With the grace of our noble nation, we have been representing Türkiye on the international stage, a veritable den of wolves, for the past 22 years,” he said. Since assuming office in 2003, initially as Prime Minister and later as President, Erdogan has transformed Türkiye into a pivotal player in regional and global diplomacy.
Erdogan’s leadership has been marked by a blend of assertive foreign policy and humanitarian initiatives, with Türkiye’s role in global diplomacy taking on increasing significance. Among his most notable accomplishments is Türkiye’s involvement in mediating conflicts, most notably during the 2022 negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. These peace talks were lauded internationally for their potential to ease tensions in the volatile region. Additionally, the Black Sea Grain Initiative, brokered by Türkiye, has been credited with ensuring the flow of Ukrainian grain to global markets amid the ongoing war.
In another recent diplomatic triumph, Erdogan successfully mediated a peace agreement between Somalia and Ethiopia, addressing their long-standing dispute over Somaliland and Ethiopia’s access to the sea. Türkiye’s sustained engagement in these conflicts has solidified its status as a trusted partner, fostering both economic ties and goodwill.
Erdogan also took the opportunity to reiterate Türkiye’s commitment to humanitarian diplomacy. He pointed to Türkiye’s steadfast support for oppressed communities, particularly in regions where Western nations have been less active. “While Western countries turned their backs and left the oppressed to die, we stood by them solely in the name of humanity, brotherhood, and Islam,” Erdogan stated.
As the host of the largest refugee population in the world, Türkiye has been a significant player in addressing the global refugee crisis, particularly with those fleeing the conflict in Syria. Erdogan called for greater international cooperation in sharing the responsibility for refugees, a sentiment recognized by the United Nations and other international bodies.
In addition to his diplomatic engagements, Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s firm defense of its national interests in international forums. “In very challenging negotiations, we have defended the rights of our country and our nation. Praise be to God, we have not let our nation bow its head in shame throughout these 22 years,” he said.
As one of the most experienced leaders in global diplomacy, Erdogan reflected on his approach to decision-making, stressing caution and deliberation. “We always thought a thousand times before we spoke once,” he noted, underscoring the measured and strategic approach that has guided his presidency.
Looking back on his legacy, Erdogan’s emphasis on patience, strategic thinking, and humanitarian values highlights his vision for Türkiye’s continued role on the world stage. Whether navigating complex diplomatic negotiations or offering aid to the oppressed, Erdogan’s leadership has positioned Türkiye as both a regional power and a defender of global equity.
