Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday issued a warning against hostile actions aimed at encircling Trkiye, declaring that the nation will not allow its path as an independent and prosperous state to be obstructed. "Let no one's imagination be led elsewhere by our dignified and calm stance. On these lands that we have made our homeland by giving and taking lives, we will allow no one to carry out an operation," Erdogan stated following a Cabinet meeting in Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan highlighted various topics discussed during the meeting, including justice, the economy, urban planning, and public safety, with decisions aimed at enhancing citizens' welfare, peace, and security. He emphasized that Trkiye harbors no hostility against any country, society, faith, or culture, but stands firmly against illegality, injustice, tyranny, and banditry, regardless of its source.
Erdogan expressed the nation's desire to continue its path as an independent and prosperous state, undeterred by those opposed to Trkiye's growing strength and efforts to establish peace and stability in the region. He reiterated that those who are allies of Trkiye will benefit, while those who harbor hostility will not succeed.
In remembrance of recent tragic events, Erdogan mentioned the capsizing of a passenger ship traveling from Girne to Tasucu in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) during Victory Day on Aug. 30. The incident resulted in 239 rescues, 14 casualties, and ongoing search efforts for 14 missing individuals. Erdogan noted the cooperation with TRNC authorities in investigating the accident, which led to the detention of eight crew members, including the captain. Additionally, search and rescue operations continue for 10 crew members of a dry cargo ship that sank off Silivri on Sept. 2.
Erdogan also discussed Trkiye's intent to fortify ties with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), describing it as a complement to the United Nations. He noted Trkiye's increasing global prominence and historical ties across a vast geography. Erdogan highlighted the nation's efforts to intensify relations with SCO member countries, which represent a significant portion of the global population and economy.
Addressing regional conflicts, Erdogan criticized Israel for its role in the ongoing Mideast war and its consequences. He accused Israel of undermining the Islamabad accord, which had aimed to bring peace to the region. Erdogan stressed that the region's turmoil will persist unless the underlying mindset shifts.
Erdogan also noted Trkiye's economic achievements despite global crises. He reported a rise in August exports by 8.1% and a 4% increase in exports for the first eight months of 2026, nearing the year-end export target. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by historic oil prices due to the Iran-centered global crisis.
Despite these tensions, Erdogan emphasized Trkiye's commitment to economic growth and development, as outlined in the Medium-Term Program. The program focuses on strengthening agriculture, industry, services, and increasing high-technology production, among other goals.
Preparations for the COP31 summit in Antalya were also addressed, with Erdogan highlighting infrastructure improvements and the expected participation of over 190 countries and 100,000 visitors. The summit aims to reinforce Trkiye's commitment to climate diplomacy and sustainable development.
Finally, Erdogan congratulated Trkiye's women's volleyball team, the "Sultans of the Net," for winning the 2026 CEV Women's European Championship, marking their second consecutive European title.