Foreign Ministry embarks on modernization journey

In a move to strengthen its diplomatic effectiveness, the president unveiled a decree outlining a series of reforms for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

A new presidential decree has brought about significant changes in the organization and operations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Published in the Official Gazette, the “Presidential Decree Amending the Presidential Decree on the Presidency Structure” outlines a series of reforms to modernize the ministry’s infrastructure, processes, and capabilities and align with a new strategic vision.

The ministry has introduced legislative amendments to reflect Türkiye’s new vision in its foreign relations, enabling a framework for swift, efficient, and effective operations.

Regional focus and specialized directorates

The decree outlines a strategic move toward expanding Türkiye’s diplomatic footprint globally, with an emphasis on representation in every region. The plan envisions a centralized structure that will reflect Türkiye’s growing influence and robust diplomatic network across various continents.

Noteworthy changes include the establishment of a separate General Directorate for Latin America, branching out from the Americas General Directorate. Similarly, the South Asia General Directorate now includes distinct divisions for Iran and Iraq, forming the Iran-Iraq General Directorate.

The growing importance of Central Asia has led to a renewed focus on the Turkish States Organization (OTS). This is reflected in the establishment of a specialized directorate within the OTS General Directorate, highlighting its strategic role in the region.

Enhanced specialization and coordination

In a bid to align with comprehensive and multidimensional endeavors, the ministry aims to enhance its operational areas and organize service units in line with these activities.

The number of General Directorates within the ministry has been increased, with the goal of establishing separate directorates for each region or country of focus.

Key directorate changes

• The Directorate for Consular Services and Overseas Citizens now ensures quicker responses and strengthened coordination for citizens abroad.
• The Migration Policies and Visa Procedures General Directorate has been revamped to streamline visa and migration processes under a single authority.
• The Information General Directorate, previously part of Public Diplomacy and Strategic Communication, has been restructured to align with current needs in foreign relations.

Specialized Units

To bolster Türkiye’s regional development and proactive humanitarian policies, the Humanitarian and Technical Assistance General Directorate has been formed. This unit will coordinate bilateral and multilateral cooperation on disaster relief and manage incoming and outgoing humanitarian aid.

Furthermore, the establishment of the International Mediation General Directorate aims to enhance Türkiye’s institutional mediation efforts under a specialized framework.

Strategic focus on bilateral relations

General directorates previously responsible for bilateral political affairs have been renamed as “Bilateral Relations General Directorates,” indicating a comprehensive scope covering economy, politics, trade, energy, culture, health, security, defense, and technology.

Coordinated efforts and future goals

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s directives emphasize the importance of effectively communicating Türkiye’s activities and providing accurate information to decision-makers.

The ongoing transformation aims to adapt swiftly to innovations and integrate them into foreign relations. The ministry is institutionalizing the increasingly global practice of science diplomacy.

The ministry underscored the critical role its work, alongside the safety and security of its personnel, plays in safeguarding the nation’s well-being. To this end, the ministry is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul that emphasizes a holistic approach to information security, personnel safety, and physical security.

Looking ahead, the ministry pledges to continue its transformation efforts across all areas, striving to elevate Türkiye’s diplomatic standing. A robust Ministry of Foreign Affairs is an indispensable pillar of strong international relations.

Source: Newsroom