Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued a formal statement on Tuesday marking the 81st anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Türkiye’s Communications Directorate shared the message on the domestic social media platform NSosyal.
Erdogan stated that the founding mission of the global body is vital in dealing with contemporary crises. He pointed to ongoing conflicts, humanitarian emergencies, climate change, hunger, and poverty as pressing international concerns.
He also pointed to the rising threat of racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia across the globe. These widespread challenges show the ongoing necessity of the international organization, according to the Turkish leader.
The institution was created after two world wars with the explicit aim of sparing future generations from armed conflict. Erdogan noted that the body has shouldered heavy responsibilities in preserving global peace, security, and advancing development.
However, the Turkish president argued that current global realities demand structural changes to the top decision-making body. It has become essential to establish a more just and inclusive framework for the UN Security Council that satisfies international expectations, he said.
Erdogan specifically referenced the situation in Gaza, stating that the deaths of more than 74,000 people in the ongoing genocide show the immediate need for reform. He added that other active conflicts around the world emphasize this urgency.
The Turkish leader urged member states to defend the UN Charter with greater firmness. He also asked nations to back initiatives aimed at boosting the operational effectiveness of the organisation’s primary organs.
Erdogan reaffirmed that Ankara backs the UN80 Initiative proposed by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. He confirmed that Turkish authorities are collaborating closely with the organization to transform Istanbul into a major UN hub.
Erdogan extended congratulations to United Nations personnel operating across the globe. He reiterated his country’s commitment to backing all efforts toward building a more inclusive and effective international system.
