In a powerful speech at the 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo on December 19, 2024, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the urgent need for global unity and justice, calling for strengthened international cooperation in the face of rising global conflicts. He focused on the importance of rebuilding war-torn Syria and highlighted the failure of global institutions in ensuring security and stability amidst escalating crises worldwide.
Global Security Institutions Falling Short
Erdogan opened his address by criticizing the inability of global institutions to address the growing instability in many regions of the world. He lamented the failure of bodies meant to safeguard global security, noting the increasing number of conflicts and wars that have escalated without significant intervention. “Unfortunately, in the face of increasing conflicts, crises, and wars, the institutions responsible for ensuring global security and stability are not fulfilling their duties,” Erdogan remarked.
The Turkish president urged for a more effective global system that can respond to emerging challenges. He stressed the necessity for stronger cooperation among countries and multilateral institutions to address global security issues, emphasizing that only through joint action can the international community hope to bring peace and stability to war-stricken regions.
Strengthening Economic Ties Among D-8 Members
Erdogan also focused on the advancements made by the D-8 (Developing-8) organization, a group of eight developing countries that aims to promote economic cooperation among its members. He proudly announced the approval of a preferential trade agreement with Egypt, which he believes will boost economic ties and enhance trade within the group. “With Egypt also approving the preferential trade agreement, it will now be possible to implement the agreement on a much broader scale,” Erdogan explained, underlining the potential for economic collaboration among the D-8 countries.
The Turkish president highlighted the importance of regional partnerships, particularly in the context of trade, as a means of creating a more resilient economic network among the developing nations. He urged the members to further deepen cooperation, as the potential for collective growth was evident in the advancements made so far.
Inclusion of Less-Developed Countries in Global Initiatives
One of the key aspects of Erdogan’s speech was his emphasis on the need for global initiatives to include less-developed nations. He stressed that the path to global justice and development cannot be achieved without actively involving countries that are struggling to overcome economic and developmental challenges.
As part of his commitment to this goal, Erdogan announced that Turkey was extending an invitation to less-developed countries to participate in TEKNOFEST, the world’s largest aviation and space festival, held annually in Turkey. “We aim to contribute to global justice and development by including the least developed countries in TEKNOFEST,” he said. The festival, known for its celebration of technological innovation, provides an opportunity for countries to showcase their scientific achievements and collaborate on global technological progress.
Azerbaijan’s Membership Strengthens D-8
Turning to regional affairs, Erdogan welcomed Azerbaijan’s recent accession to the D-8. He hailed it as a crucial development that strengthens the organization and expands its influence in the region. “With Azerbaijan, which has made significant strides in recent years and joined our organization, we are stronger today than in the past,” Erdogan stated, acknowledging Azerbaijan’s growing role in regional politics and its contributions to regional stability.
Syria: A Call for Solidarity and Reconstruction
A significant portion of Erdogan’s speech was dedicated to Syria, a country devastated by over a decade of civil war. Erdogan called for international solidarity in the efforts to rebuild Syria, urging the global community to come together to help its people recover from the destruction wrought by years of conflict.
“The people of Syria need unity and help to rebuild their war-torn country. As their neighbors and brothers, we are trying to contribute to this effort,” Erdogan said. He outlined Turkey’s role in facilitating humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts while calling on other nations to support these efforts.
He reiterated his vision of a peaceful Syria where all ethnic, religious, and sectarian groups could coexist harmoniously. “The construction of a Syria free from terrorism, where all religious, sectarian, and ethnic groups live side by side in peace, is our most sincere expectation,” he concluded, reflecting his long-standing stance on the importance of peace and coexistence in the region.
A Vision for Peace and Justice
President Erdogan’s address at the D-8 Summit underscored the urgent need for global cooperation and justice in addressing the world’s most pressing issues, from Syria’s reconstruction to the reform of global security institutions. His vision of a unified international community working together for peace and stability resonated throughout the summit, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to reshape global governance. As the world faces rising challenges, Erdogan’s call for solidarity and cooperation offers a hopeful glimpse into the future of international relations.
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