Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, addressing the 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo, underlined Ankara’s commitment to fostering stability in Syria and emphasized the importance of restoring the country’s territorial integrity and unity.

“We work to contribute to the establishment of stability in Syria,” Erdoğan said. “Our sincerest expectation is the reconstruction of a terror-free Syria where all ethnic groups live side by side in peace.”

Global Challenges and the Role of the D-8

President Erdoğan highlighted the growing significance of the D-8’s founding principles—peace, dialogue, cooperation, justice, and equality—amid escalating global conflicts and crises. He criticized international organizations for failing to address these challenges effectively, stating:

“Organizations tasked with safeguarding global security and stability unfortunately do not fulfill their duties in the face of escalating conflicts, crises, and wars.”

Erdoğan expressed hope that the summit’s decisions would offer guidance in addressing global issues, particularly the inefficiencies of the post-World War II political and economic systems.

Focus on Youth and SMEs

Erdoğan noted the importance of youth and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as drivers of growth in D-8 member states, which collectively boast a population of over 1 billion.

“At a time of aging populations in the West, a young population offers significant advantages for us if it is put to good use,” he said.

He proposed enhancing the role of SMEs in trade, investment, rural development, and other sectors, suggesting targeted programs to maximize their benefits from preferential trade agreements within the D-8 framework.

Expanding the D-8’s Reach

Erdoğan stressed the need to expand the D-8’s influence by welcoming new members and partners. He warmly welcomed Azerbaijan as the newest member of the organization, stating, “Today, we are stronger than yesterday with the D-8 membership of Azerbaijan.”

A Call for Solidarity with Syria

Turning to regional issues, Erdoğan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to the Syrian people during this critical period. He called for unity and reconciliation in Syria, emphasizing the need for swift reconstruction efforts.

“The Syrian people need unity, solidarity, and reconciliation to revive their war-torn country swiftly,” he stated. Erdoğan urged D-8 member states to support Syria in its struggle for stability and peace.

The summit provided a platform for discussions on pressing global and regional issues, with Erdoğan set to address the situations in Palestine and Lebanon during subsequent sessions. (ILKHA)