Susanna Riva Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, a dominant figure in Turkish politics, has led Turkey through a period of unprecedented transformation. In an exclusive interview, the Turkish president reflects on two decades of leadership and Turkey's growing role in the global geopolitical landscape.
His political career began in the 90s, when he was elected mayor of Istanbul.
In 2001, he founded the Justice and Development Party, known as the AK Party, which has won every subsequent election. After three terms as prime minister, Erdogan was elected president in 2014 and remains in office today.
Turkey in the geopolitical context
As the world faces global turmoil, Erdogan has redefined Turkey's role in international politics.
In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, he discussed Turkey's growing influence and recent defense agreements with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Erdogan emphasized the importance of free maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz , identifying Israel as the main driver of regional conflicts. He also reiterated Turkey's support for the new Syrian administration and its solidarity with Lebanon and Gaza.
Turkey's Economic Transformation
Domestically, Erdogan reflected on Turkey's economic transformation and its future. He declared that European Union membership is no longer a priority, signaling a significant shift in the country's domestic politics.
The President also discussed the challenges and opportunities Turkey faces in its economic development. He highlighted the progress made and future ambitions, emphasizing the importance of innovation and sustainable growth.
The future of Türkiye
Looking to the future, Erdogan outlined his vision for Turkey. He spoke of the importance of maintaining political stability and continuing to strengthen international relations. He also emphasized the importance of investing in education and technology to ensure a prosperous future for the country.
As the AK Party celebrates its 25th anniversary, Erdogan reflects on what has been achieved and what remains to be done. His leadership continues to shape Turkey's future as the country navigates the complexities of the global geopolitical landscape.