Türkiye | Ministry of Foreign Affairs Alerts & Announcements

[EnigmaMage]

Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Dışişleri Bakanlığı
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye​

 

[EnigmaMage]

Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Dışişleri Bakanlığı
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Türkiye​

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Turkiye Issues Strong Statement Against Egyptian Interdiction Zone (EIZ) Policies​

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The Republic of Turkiye wishes to express its position on the recently announced Egyptian Interdiction Zone (EIZ) and its associated policies concerning the CORE and PERIPHERAL regions. We firmly believe that these policies are, in our view, highly unconventional and challenging to support.

Turkiye, as a nation committed to upholding the principles of international law, sovereignty, and respect for the territorial integrity of all nations, cannot wholeheartedly endorse a policy that restricts the actions of foreign governments within their own territories to such an extent. While we recognize Egypt's legitimate right to safeguard its national interests and protect its borders, we find that these policies raise serious questions about the adherence to international norms and the principles of non-interference and self-determination.

In particular, the policy established for CORE regions appears to be highly restrictive, essentially limiting the decision-making capacity of other nations within their own territories. We understand the importance of regional stability but believe that such an absolute prohibition on external influence may unintentionally undermine the very principles of peace, cooperation, and self-determination that it seeks to promote. Nations should have the flexibility to manage their internal affairs and external relations in a manner consistent with international law.

Furthermore, the potential for Egypt to determine the legitimacy of actions within CORE regions and conduct operations without external interference raises concerns about unilateral and unchecked power, which may lead to unforeseen consequences and instability in the affected areas.

In the case of PERIPHERAL regions, the requirement for nations to seek Egypt's approval for actions taken in self-defense or for reasons deemed acceptable by Egypt also raises concerns. While we do not maintain diplomatic relations with Egypt, we believe that any policy that limits the right to self-defense, a fundamental principle of international law, requires careful consideration and the involvement of all affected parties.

It is essential to underline that the Egyptian government does not have the authority to prohibit military activities within the territories of sovereign nations. International law, including the Global Assembly Charter, recognizes the right of nations to self-defense and the ability to conduct military operations as necessary for their security and sovereignty. If the Egyptian government seeks to prohibit other nations from conducting military activities, it may face the risk of sanctions and legal challenges under international law.

Turkiye reiterates its support for diplomatic dialogue and multilateral cooperation to address regional concerns and disputes. We remain open to engaging with Egypt and all other nations involved in the EIZ to ensure that the principles of international law, mutual respect, and collaboration are upheld in the pursuit of regional stability.

Turkiye stands firmly against this policy and encourages Egypt and other relevant stakeholders to engage in constructive discussions to address the concerns we have expressed and ensure that the EIZ policies align with the broader framework of international law and cooperation.

END OF STATEMENT​

 

[EnigmaMage]

Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Dışişleri Bakanlığı
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Türkiye​

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Hagia Sophia Decision & Severing Diplomatic Ties with the Holy See​

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The Turkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues this official statement to address the recent developments surrounding Hagia Sophia and our diplomatic relations with the Holy See.

The decision by Prime Minister Abdullah Gul to gift the historic Hagia Sophia to the Holy See has generated significant discourse, within our nation. We understand and respect the diverse range of opinions this decision has evoked. Turkiye has always been a place where different cultures, religions, and traditions coexist, and our commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue remains unwavering.

The decision to repurpose Hagia Sophia is framed by the Prime Minister as an initiative to promote interfaith understanding and cooperation. While this intention is laudable, it is undeniable that the move has raised concerns among various political and religious groups within Turkiye. It is vital to reiterate that our nation was founded on the principles of secularism and cultural preservation.

In response to this situation, the Turkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken the step of adding the Holy See to the list of banned entities, thus severing diplomatic ties with the Holy See. This decision is intended to safeguard our national and cultural sovereignty, as we believe that external interference in our domestic affairs cannot be tolerated.

We have also recalled Ambassador Selma Şahin, who had been representing our nation in Vatican City, as a reflection of our commitment to recalibrate our diplomatic relationship with the Holy See.

The decision surrounding Hagia Sophia and the subsequent severing of diplomatic ties is not a step taken lightly. We understand the gravity of the situation, and we will closely monitor developments, continuing to uphold our principles of secularism, pan-Turkism, pan-Islamism, cultural preservation, and national sovereignty.

The Turkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains dedicated to ensuring the well-being of our nation and its cultural heritage while preserving our commitment to peaceful coexistence in a diverse and ever-evolving world.

For further inquiries, please contact the Turkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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