President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan answered questions from journalists, including Yeni Şafak Newspaper Editor-in-Chief Hüseyin Likoğlu, on his return from his visit to Astana. Erdoğan’s interview with journalists on the plane continued as follows;
‘Türkiye-Russia Relations and Ukraine Peace’
He stated that they discussed the issue of mediation in his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and that this process helped to take important steps. He stated that they made a good start on the Black Sea Grain Corridor and that they will make progress in line with Russia’s expectations from Turkey.
‘Cooperation with Syria and Iran’
Referring to the process of restarting the four-way talks between Turkey, Russia, Syria and Iran, Erdoğan stated that a new process could be started with Syria and that a meeting with Bashar Assad could contribute to building peace.
‘Fight Against Terrorism and Military Operations’
Emphasizing that the operations carried out within the scope of the fight against terrorism and Turkey’s indiscriminate fight against terrorism, Erdoğan stated that the security forces were carrying out an effective fight against terrorist organizations and that the necessary steps would be taken.
‘NATO and Russia Relations’
Referring to the relations between NATO and Russia and the danger of World War III, Erdoğan stated that efforts were being made for peace and that mediation was being carried out to resolve tensions with Russia. He also stated that the second man of NATO could be a Turk and that efforts were being made to resolve Turkey’s problems within NATO.
‘The Cyprus Problem and Israeli Relations’
Referring to the Cyprus issue and Israel’s influence in the region, Erdoğan emphasized the importance of peace and stability on the 50th anniversary of the Cyprus Peace Operation and stated the necessity of international pressure to resolve tensions in the region.
‘Economy and Inflation Process’
Making evaluations regarding the disinflation process envisaged by the economic program, Erdoğan stated that inflation has entered a downward trend and the economic program has begun to show its positive effects. He also stated that new steps will be taken in monetary policy and that inflation will continue to fall rapidly.
‘The National Team and the Merih Demiral Incident’
Speaking about the reactions to the grey wolf sign made by national football player Merih Demiral during the quarter-final match, Erdoğan drew attention to the reactions by stating that this gesture made to reflect his excitement was normal.
