Mecca: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, signed by Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, marks a new era in international relations and offers a crucial opportunity to convey a significant message of peace to the world.
According to TRTworld.com, Erdogan, in an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic television, highlighted that the signing of the agreement in Mecca by these three nations serves as a powerful statement of unity and strength. He emphasized that the agreement, signed during a tumultuous period in US-Iran relations, underscores a collective commitment to world peace. Erdogan noted that the choice of Mecca as the signing location amplifies the symbolic value of the agreement, presenting these countries as advocates of peace.
Erdogan elaborated on the agreement's provisions, likening it to NATO's Article 5, ensuring mutual defense among the signatory countries. He emphasized that this agreement could potentially expand beyond Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, inviting other nations to join in promoting peace and stability.
Discussing the ongoing conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran, Erdogan expressed hope for a quick resolution and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to ease global oil traffic. He reiterated Trkiye's stance against war, criticizing Israel for its involvement in regional conflicts and underscoring the importance of dialogue and peace.
Erdogan also addressed mediation efforts between the US and Iran by Qatar and Pakistan, affirming Trkiye's commitment to supporting peace initiatives. He spoke about Trkiye's strong relations with Syria under President Ahmed al Sharaa, pledging continued support for Syria's stability and development.
In response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon and Gaza, Erdogan condemned the aggression and called for international intervention to protect these regions. He reassured continued Turkish support for Lebanon and Gaza, stressing the need for collective action to halt hostilities.
On Trkiye's relations with Sudan, Erdogan expressed optimism for Sudan's leadership under Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and reiterated support for Sudan amid ongoing civil conflict. He also highlighted Trkiye's collaborative efforts with Libya in developing its oil resources.
Touching on Trkiye's relations with the US, Erdogan urged President Trump to fulfill promises regarding the F-35 fighter jets, emphasizing the significance of this commitment for Trkiye. He clarified that Israel was not a focal point in US-Trkiye discussions, focusing instead on defense and trade issues.
Erdogan praised Trkiye's strong ties with Russia, facilitated through continuous diplomatic contacts. He expressed skepticism about EU membership prospects but maintained an open door for future possibilities, asserting that the EU would lose by excluding Trkiye. He concluded by underscoring Trkiye's commitment to strengthening ties with the Arab world and maintaining military readiness.