FM Fidan reaffirms Türkiye’s support for Meskhetian Turks on deportation anniversary
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi (not seen) hold a joint press conference after their meeting at Representative Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Istanbul, Türkiye on Oct.19, 2024. (AA Photo)
On the anniversary of the 1944 deportation of Meskhetian Turks, Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated the country’s commitment to supporting their cultural identity and welfare, while also aiding their integration into new communities worldwide.
Key points of FM Fidan’s statements
- On Nov. 14, 1944, around 100,000 Meskhetian Turks were forcibly expelled from Georgia’s Meskheti region.
- Fidan shared a message on social media to commemorate the anniversary, offering condolences to those who died during the deportation and expressing solidarity with the descendants of the Meskhetian Turks, who now number about 500,000 worldwide.
- Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s ongoing support for the return of Meskhetian Turks to their homeland and efforts to help them integrate and thrive in their current communities, especially through economic development projects in Georgia.
- Türkiye has also extended scholarships, special citizenship offers, and long-term residence permits to Meskhetian Turks. During the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Türkiye played a key role in helping those in need relocate safely to the country.
- Fidan stressed that Türkiye will continue to monitor the situation of Meskhetian Turks, particularly with international organizations like the European Council and with Georgian authorities.
