Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a heartfelt New Year message, reflecting on Türkiye’s accomplishments in 2024 and outlining ambitious goals for 2025.

The President emphasized unity, resilience, and progress, pledging to tackle national and regional challenges with determination and resolve.

In his address, Erdoğan highlighted the importance of creating a "terror-free Türkiye and a terror-free region." He assured the nation of decisive actions in pursuit of this vision, stating, “We will take determined steps to realize our vision of a terror-free Türkiye and a terror-free region. While we aim for peace through goodwill, we are prepared to deploy our state’s iron fist in a velvet glove when necessary.”

Erdoğan celebrated the nation’s accomplishments over the past year, particularly the successful local elections, which he described as a "democracy festival" showcasing Türkiye's political maturity. He extended gratitude to citizens for their active participation, regardless of their political choices, emphasizing the strength of democracy.

The President also acknowledged progress in key sectors, including employment, exports, production, tourism, and the defense industry. He pointed to a significant decline in inflation during the latter part of the year as evidence that Türkiye is on track to meet its 2025 economic targets.

Erdoğan reassured citizens that the government would continue its fight against economic challenges, including profiteering in housing, rent, and food sectors. He urged patience and unity, promising to focus on policies that restore purchasing power and improve welfare.

“We are on the right path,” he said. “With Allah’s permission, we will reach our goals. Just as it has been us who solved past problems, it will be us who overcome current challenges.”

Turning to foreign policy, Erdoğan highlighted Türkiye’s role in fostering stability in the region, particularly in Syria. He expressed hope that ongoing efforts would lead to lasting peace and prosperity, facilitating the voluntary return of Syrian refugees.

On the Palestinian issue, Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye's unwavering support for a free and sovereign Palestinian state within 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. “We are the only country that has responded in the strongest manner to the massacres in Gaza,” he stated, vowing to continue advocating for peace and justice.

Regarding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Erdoğan expressed hope for a new era of peace in 2025, reiterating Türkiye’s commitment to mediating and supporting diplomatic resolutions.

Concluding his address, Erdoğan reaffirmed his commitment to making the "Century of Türkiye" a period of brotherhood and progress. “May my Lord not make us feel embarrassed before our august nation and the oppressed who have laid their hopes on Türkiye,” he said, extending warm New Year wishes to the nation and the world.

The President’s message conveyed optimism and a vision for collective prosperity, urging citizens to remain united in the face of challenges. (ILKHA)