Message of a 'terror-free Turkey' from the NSC

The National Security Council (NSC) meeting has concluded.

The meeting, chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the Presidential Complex, lasted approximately 2.5 hours. A written statement was released following the NSC meeting.

The NSC statement is as follows:

1. The Council was briefed on the operations being conducted with determination, resolve, and success both domestically and abroad against all kinds of threats and dangers to our national unity, solidarity, and survival, primarily the PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETÖ, and DAESH terrorist organizations, as well as recent international developments.

2. It was stated that with the achievement of the goal of a terror-free Turkey, made possible by the sacrifices of our noble martyrs and veterans, the foresight and resolve of our nation, and the steadfastness of our state, our national unity and solidarity will be further consolidated, the peace and prosperity of all our citizens will increase, our country's socioeconomic development and progress will accelerate, and our democracy will be strengthened.

In this context, it was underlined that the process of the separatist terrorist organization dissolving itself, laying down its arms, and disarming, as well as the liquidation of all its extensions, will continue to be followed closely and meticulously.

3. It was stated that Turkey will continue to support efforts in Syria aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability under the new administration and clearing the country of all terrorist organizations; it was emphasized that provocations designed to disrupt stability are being monitored carefully and that the approach aimed at preserving Syria's territorial integrity and its unitary structure, including all religious, sectarian, and ethnic identities, will be maintained.

4. The latest situation regarding the Palestinian issue was discussed; attention was drawn to the need for Israel to end its persistent policies of genocide, invasion, and occupation, return to a ceasefire regime as soon as possible, and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches the region without obstruction and in sufficient quantities; it was stated that legitimate steps to be taken to ensure the people of Gaza can live freely in their own homeland in safety, peace, and prosperity, as well as efforts to rebuild the devastated Gaza, will continue.

5. Satisfaction was expressed regarding the entry into a process that prioritizes negotiations and diplomatic efforts in the Russia-Ukraine War; it was stated that our country will continue to take initiatives in the coming period to ensure the process concludes with a fair and honorable agreement and to establish lasting peace.

6. Our unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina was reaffirmed once again; it was noted that Turkey will continue to monitor all developments that could negatively affect the environment of peace in the Balkans and will continue to exert efforts with an inclusive and embracing approach to preserve peace and stability in the region.

7. It was stated that Turkey will serve the prosperity, peace, and tranquility of our entire region by offering similar contributions to other partners with whom it has opportunities for cooperation in the fields of security and stability, in addition to the contributions it makes to the alliances it is a part of, by leveraging the opportunities offered by its geopolitical position, its superior military power and capabilities, and its advanced and productive defense industry.

In this process, the revitalization of Turkey-European Union relations in general and Turkey's indispensable role in planning for Europe's security were highlighted.