Speaking at the 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Khankendi, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a wide-ranging address pointing out regional peace, climate action, and deepened cooperation across member states.

In a symbolic moment during his speech, Erdoğan expressed his heartfelt optimism for the future of Khankendi, stating: “I wholeheartedly believe that the city of Khankendi will be a center of peace.” He emphasized that the decision to hold the summit in this historically significant location lent special meaning and importance to the event, signaling a new chapter of development and reconciliation in the region, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

Turning to climate issues, the Turkish leader reaffirmed his country’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. He outlined Ankara’s roadmap toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2053, noting that the 2024–2030 national program aims to reduce carbon emissions by 100 million tons. Erdoğan also confirmed that Türkiye is nearing final approval of the agreements adopted at the upcoming COP29 climate summit, to be hosted in Baku. He congratulated Azerbaijan and President Ilham Aliyev on the designation of Shusha as the ECO Tourism Capital for 2026, calling it a significant milestone for regional cultural and economic exchange.

President Erdoğan then used the platform to advocate for stronger ties between ECO member states and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Highlighting the TRNC’s observer status in the ECO since 2012, Erdoğan emphasized the need to deepen engagement with Turkish Cypriots across multiple sectors. “I expect you to develop your relations with the Turkish Cypriots in various fields, from sports to culture, from economy to tourism,” he urged, denouncing the continued isolation of the TRNC.

On foreign policy, the Turkish president also addressed developments in Syria and Afghanistan. He stressed the importance of establishing constructive relations with Syria’s new leadership, viewing recent changes as a potential turning point for regional stability. “This is a critical and important period for the international community to continue its financial support and develop relations with the new administration,” Erdoğan said. He also emphasized sustained support for the Afghan people, particularly in fostering peace and development amid ongoing challenges.

Concluding his remarks, Erdoğan extended condolences to the people of Pakistan in light of the recent terrorist attack, reaffirming Türkiye’s solidarity with its close regional partner.

By Vafa Guliyeva

Source: caliber.az