In a decisive diplomatic appeal, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on both Russia and Azerbaijan to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation, as tensions between the two countries threaten regional stability. Speaking to reporters during his flight back from Azerbaijan, Erdogan underscored Ankara’s commitment to preserving its deep strategic ties with both Moscow and Baku.
“Unfortunate Incidents Must Not Damage Relations”
“Ankara’s greatest wish is that these unfortunate incidents do not cause irreparable damage to the mutual relations between Moscow and Baku,” Erdogan said. His comments come at a sensitive time, as recent disputes between Russia and Azerbaijan have raised alarms in diplomatic circles.
Erdogan emphasized that Turkey’s diplomatic relations are grounded in respect for regional peace, and he called for restraint, dialogue, and cooperation to prevent tensions from spiraling out of control.
New Horizons: Peace Agreement Between Baku and Yerevan
Turning to the ongoing peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Erdogan expressed optimism:
“With the peace agreement between Baku and Yerevan, we will witness the opening of new, historic opportunities.”
He highlighted the potential of the Zangezur Corridor, a key geo-economic route linking Western Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan exclave and further extending trade connectivity between China, Turkey, and Russia.
Erdogan described the corridor as part of a “geo-economic revolution” that could benefit not just Azerbaijan, but the entire region.
Interestingly, Erdogan noted that Armenia, which initially opposed the Zangezur Corridor, is now showing a more flexible stance towards economic integration.
F-35 Deal: Erdogan Looks to Trump for Delivery
Addressing the stalled F-35 fighter jet delivery from Washington, Erdogan voiced his hope that the issue would see resolution under Donald Trump’s leadership.
“The F-35 issue is not only about military technology for Turkey, but also about strong partnerships on global platforms, especially within NATO,” he emphasized.
The F-35 dispute remains a key point of friction in US-Turkey relations, and Erdogan made it clear that progress on this front would symbolize renewed strategic cooperation.
Gaza Ceasefire, Iran-Israel Tensions, and Hope for Stability
Erdogan also touched on the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel, stressing that Turkey sees this as an opening for further diplomatic efforts, particularly in securing peace in Gaza.
“Hamas has shown goodwill repeatedly, and we must capitalize on this window to end violence in the region,” he said.
On Syria, Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s red lines, ruling out any acceptance of plans that could legitimize terrorist groups near the Turkish border.
He proposed the creation of free trade zones, logistics hubs, and border markets in northern Syria as a model for sustainable development and stability.
Turkey-Azerbaijan Energy Cooperation Expands
In a notable revelation, Erdogan shared that his “brother,” Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, has pledged full support in supplying natural gas to Syria—a move that could boost regional energy security.
“This is how we build bridges for lasting peace and prosperity in the region,” Erdogan concluded.
Comments are closed.