President Erdogan said in his remarks following a cabinet meeting in the capital Ankara: "Our vision for a Turkish century is gradually being realized, and we will not allow any entity acting as an alternative to the imperialists to obstruct this blessed process."
He continued, saying: "We saw how Turkey's size and influence are much greater than its geographical borders, following the incident of the military cargo plane crash," recalling the heroic martyrs who died in the incident, and affirming that their memory will always be commemorated.
He stressed his country’s determination to defend peace, justice, stability, development and mutual benefit along Turkey’s southern border from Iraq to Syria.
Regarding the Palestinian issue, Erdogan stated that Turkey will continue to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip using all available means despite Israeli obstacles, stressing that "as long as the occupation continues in Palestine, and as long as Palestinian lands are being usurped, no country in the region will be safe."
He continued, saying, "The people of Gaza must be saved from the dilapidated tents, and sending the containers that are in our country to Gaza will lead to a major breakthrough on the ground," adding that "we will work hard and make efforts, and God willing, we will ensure that the path to lasting peace in the region is wide open."
The Turkish President touched on the recent Iraqi elections, which were held in safety, expressing his hope that they would bring good to all Iraqis.
Regarding the Cyprus issue, he said: "If Greek Cyprus demonstrates the same constructive stance adopted by Turkish Cyprus, it is possible to find a fair and genuine solution on the island, based on equality of sovereignty and international status."