Erdogan sets out Türkiye’s regional posture as AK Party marks 25 years
In an exclusive Al Jazeera interview, Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlighted defence cooperation, regional conflicts and Türkiye’s reduced priority for European Union accession.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has used an exclusive Al Jazeera interview to outline Türkiye’s foreign policy and expanding geopolitical role as the Justice and Development Party marks its 25th anniversary.
Erdogan highlighted a recently reported defence deal involving Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, although the source provided no details on its terms or timing. He also called for open maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
In comments reported by Al Jazeera, Erdogan identified Israel as the primary driver of the regional conflict. The account did not independently verify claims about responsibility for escalation or the conflicts discussed.
Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for Syria’s new administration and expressed solidarity with Lebanon and Gaza. The interview also addressed the country’s economic transformation and its changing position towards Europe.
He said European Union accession was no longer a priority for Türkiye, signalling the reduced importance of membership in the government’s stated political outlook.
Erdogan became mayor of Istanbul in the 1990s, founded the AK Party in 2001 and served three terms as prime minister before becoming president in 2014.
