Turkish president calls for global unity, justice at D-8 summit, urges rebuilding efforts in war-torn Syria

Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticizes global security failures, advocates for stronger cooperation during speech at 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo, Egypt

Türkiye’s president on Thursday called for global unity, justice, and rebuilding efforts in war-battered Syria, addressing escalating global conflicts and the challenges in maintaining security and stability. "Unfortunately, in the face of increasing conflicts, crises, and wars, the institutions responsible for ensuring global security and stability are not fulfilling their duties," Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in his speech to the 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo, Egypt. Erdogan stress the need for stronger international cooperation and also highlighted recent advancements within the D-8 organization, particularly the approval of a trade pact with Egypt. "With Egypt also approving the preferential trade agreement, it will now be possible to implement the agreement on a much broader scale," he said, underscoring the potential for expanded economic ties among member countries. The Turkish president further pointed to the importance of including less-developed nations in global initiatives. "We aim to contribute to global justice and development by including the least developed countries in TEKNOFEST, the world's largest aviation and space festival," he said, stressing the Turkish-based festival's role in promoting technological progress across borders. On regional issues, Erdogan hailed Azerbaijan joining the D-8, calling it a significant step for the organization’s strength. "With Azerbaijan, which has made significant strides in recent years and joined our organization, we are stronger today than in the past," he said. Turning to the situation in post-Assad Syria, Erdogan called for solidarity in rebuilding the country, scarred by 13 years of civil war. "The people of Syria need unity and help to rebuild their war-torn country. As their neighbors and brothers, we are trying to contribute to this effort," he explained. The president added that the ultimate goal is peace and coexistence in Syria. "The construction of a Syria free from terrorism, where all religious, sectarian, and ethnic groups live side by side in peace, is our most sincere expectation."