Türkiye’s only axis is national interest, says Turkish Parliament speaker
Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus attended the commemoration ceremony held at the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye on July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day and delivered a speech in Ankara, Türkiye on July 15, 2024. (Anadolu Images)
Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus emphasized that Türkiye follows its own “national axis” in foreign policy, rejecting the idea that the country must align with specific international powers.
Speaking on CNN Turk’s “Weekend” program, Kurtulmus discussed Türkiye’s relationships with regional countries and its broader diplomatic strategy.
“Türkiye does not have to turn one way or the other. We cooperate with all nations, alliances, and regions based on our national interests, goals and objectives,” Kurtulmus said, underlining Türkiye’s independent foreign policy stance.
Regional cooperation and diplomatic strategy
When asked about cooperation with countries like Syria, Iraq and Iran, Kurtulmus highlighted that Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts, including its approach to the Gaza conflict and broader Middle Eastern issues, focus on building close partnerships with regional states. “Our aim is to work together to resolve regional challenges, leaving aside political differences,” he noted.
Kurtulmus reflected on his recent visit to Russia, describing it as highly productive, with a comprehensive agenda that engaged various political centers. He emphasized that Russia’s alignment on many issues, including Palestine and Gaza, mirrors Türkiye’s own stance.
Shift to multipolarity
Kurtulmus noted that the global order is undergoing a transformation, stating that the unipolar world dominated by the United States is giving way to a new multipolar system. “We are entering a new era where no single nation or bloc will be able to control global affairs entirely,” he said, adding that Türkiye is uniquely positioned to navigate this new landscape due to its strategic geography and diplomatic capabilities.
“Türkiye is capable of maintaining strong relations with all sides, including both the West and the East,” Kurtulmus stressed, dismissing the notion of an “axis shift” in Türkiye’s foreign policy. “Our relations with the West don’t mean we turn our backs on the East, and vice versa.”
Need for new global order
Kurtulmus also addressed the idea of a new global architecture, expressing optimism that Türkiye can play a key role in shaping it.
“We are ready to contribute to creating a new global structure that is fairer and more balanced,” he said, adding that Türkiye’s multifaceted foreign policy approach will enable it to remain influential on the world stage.
NATO, West and double standards
Kurtulmus did not shy away from addressing criticisms that Türkiye has moved away from the Western axis, particularly in its relations with NATO and the U.S. “Türkiye’s relations with the West are not perfect, and there have been many double standards,” he remarked, citing challenges in visa processes and defense cooperation.
Despite these obstacles, Kurtulmus underscored Türkiye’s importance to Western security interests, noting that “Türkiye remains a key ally for the West, particularly in terms of security needs.”
