Turkey’s Speaker of the Grand National Assembly Kurtulmuş: Turkey to Make a More Serious Contribution to World Peace with BRICS
Turkey’s Speaker of the Grand National Assembly, Numan Kurtulmuş, in an interview with Russia’s official news agency TASS, highlighted the strong friendship and neighborly bond between Turkey and Russia. Kurtulmuş emphasized the significant role of Turkey’s participation in BRICS, stating that “Turkey’s entry into BRICS will not limit Turkey, on the contrary, it will increase Turkey’s foreign policy opportunities. Turkey’s engagement with BRICS will also make a much more serious contribution to world peace.”
Kurtulmuş noted that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Russian President Vladimir Putin have established a friendship bridge between the two countries, working together to achieve common goals in various areas such as reaching a bilateral trade volume of $100 billion, implementing joint energy projects, and intensifying cultural and tourism activities. He expressed hope that their efforts would strengthen the relations between the two nations.
“TBMM is the Most Resilient Parliament in the World”
Regarding the parliamentary structure in Turkey, Kurtulmuş pointed out that the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) existed even before the establishment of the Republic. He highlighted that TBMM is a parliament that founded the state, distinguishing it as a fundamental feature. Transitioning to a multi-party parliamentary democracy in 1950, Kurtulmuş mentioned that Turkey’s democracy has withstood numerous challenges over the past 74 years, including five military coups, with the latest being the 2016 coup attempt by FETÖ traitors. He commended the Turkish democracy as the most resilient parliament globally, emphasizing its significance in the world.
“Turkey’s Entry into BRICS Will not Restrict Turkey”
Responding to how Turkey’s accession to BRICS would benefit the country, Kurtulmuş emphasized the evolving multipolar world order and the importance of Turkey’s strategic position as a regional and global actor. He viewed BRICS as a significant formation in the emerging multipolar world system, stating that Turkey’s participation in BRICS would enhance its foreign policy capabilities without limitations. Kurtulmuş highlighted that Turkey’s involvement with BRICS would contribute significantly to world peace within the framework of a multipolar world system.
Turkey’s Efforts for Global Peace
When asked about Turkey’s contributions to global peace, Kurtulmuş emphasized Turkey’s efforts to ensure peace and stability both regionally and globally. He cited Turkey’s mediation role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where Turkey collaborated with Russia and the United Nations to maintain the Grain Corridor and prevent a food crisis in Africa. Additionally, he mentioned Turkey’s humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza and its advocacy for peace and ceasefire in the region.
Kurtulmuş highlighted the strong alignment between Russia and Turkey in advocating for justice at the International Court of Justice regarding the crimes committed by Netanyahu’s regime. He emphasized Turkey’s commitment to transforming international platforms into peace diplomacy forums, particularly concerning Gaza. Kurtulmuş reiterated Turkey’s primary focus on peace and stability in both regional and global politics, expressing readiness to collaborate with all countries sharing the same perspective.
Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant Project
Addressing the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant Project and its impact on Turkey’s economy and energy security, Kurtulmuş acknowledged the positive progress of the project, emphasizing its significance in enhancing Turkey’s energy security. He mentioned the delays in the project due to sanctions imposed on Russia, causing some Western companies to hinder the delivery of necessary materials. Kurtulmuş expressed hope that the first phase of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant would commence electricity production by 2025.
Promoting Turkish Tourism to Russian Visitors
When asked about recommendations for Russian tourists planning to visit Turkey, Kurtulmuş highlighted Turkey’s diverse attractions in culture, health, mountains, nature, and winter tourism. He emphasized Turkey’s richness in various tourism sectors, welcoming the approximately 6.3 million Russian visitors who explored Turkey in 2023.
Transition from Academia to Politics
Reflecting on his transition from academia to politics, Kurtulmuş emphasized the unified goal of excelling in any profession by acquiring the necessary skills to perform tasks effectively. He underscored his lifelong dedication to serving the well-being and prosperity of the people, maintaining a consistent focus on contributing to society’s welfare.
In conclusion, Kurtulmuş reiterated Turkey’s commitment to promoting peace and stability globally, emphasizing the country’s active role in diplomatic efforts and humanitarian initiatives. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with like-minded nations to achieve lasting peace and prosperity for all.
