In a speech delivered at an event on migration management in Istanbul, Erdogan said that migration is a "global problem" that sees millions of people displaced annually due to injustice and conflict. He noted that human trafficking gangs have exploited this crisis in an "inhumane" manner.
The Turkish president criticized the policies of Western powers, which he said "forced millions to leave their homelands," noting that wealthy countries "failed to assume their moral and humanitarian responsibilities toward migrants and refused to accept them."
Erdogan explained that Türkiye has received more than 4 million migrants, whom he described as "oppressed," stressing that his country has not and will not close its doors to those in need of protection.
He added, "We will hold accountable anyone who treats migrants with racism or hostility," warning against spreading discord and hatred within Turkish society.
Regarding the situation in Syria, Erdogan stressed that his country would continue to provide support to help Syria restore stability, asserting that achieving stability there would facilitate the return of more Syrian refugees to their homes.
The Turkish president concluded by stressing that protecting Türkiye's internal security is a top priority, saying, "We will not tolerate any attempt to undermine our country's unity or exploit migrant issues to sow discord among our citizens."
