In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reflected on his more than two decades in leadership, a period he describes as having redrawn Turkiye’s political landscape amidst global instability. Speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic’s Ali Al Dafiri, Erdogan traced his political ascent from his election as Istanbul mayor in the early 1990s to founding the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) in 2001. He has retained power through every election since, transitioning from three terms as prime minister to the presidency in 2014.
Marking the 25th anniversary of the AK Party, Erdogan emphasized Turkiye’s expanding influence in the current geopolitical environment. He highlighted recent defense agreements concluded with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, signaling a deepening of regional military cooperation.
Addressing the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, Erdogan identified Israel as the primary catalyst for regional tensions. He called for the maintenance of open maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz while outlining Turkiye’s diplomatic stance on the crisis.
Erdogan also reaffirmed Turkiye’s support for Syria’s new administration, alongside expressions of solidarity with Lebanon and Gaza. On the domestic front, the president discussed the country’s significant economic transformation. However, he acknowledged a shift in foreign policy priorities, stating that accession to the European Union is no longer a goal for Turkiye.
Twenty-five years is a long time. Does anyone else feel like the narrative hasn’t really changed much?
Surprised he didn’t mention Russia more directly. Saudi and Pakistan deals are notable, but the bigger picture is missing.
How does he justify the economic struggles while claiming such success? The reality on the ground feels very different.
The EU accession pivot is a massive shift. Turkiye seems to be betting on regional alliances instead.