Erdoğan Highlights Progress in “Turkey Without Terror” Initiative at Malazgirt

During a speech in Malazgirt, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan highlighted significant strides made in the country’s ongoing counterterrorism and national unity efforts, describing the progress as both rapid and meaningful. Speaking on the “Terörsüz Türkiye” (Turkey Without Terror) initiative, Erdoğan stated: “We have, thank God, made significant progress in a short time in the process we launched to completely dismantle the walls of discord woven among the members of our nation.”

Erdoğan framed these efforts as a deliberate and careful approach, likening them to the precision of a master jeweler. He acknowledged challenges posed by groups and forces that thrive on instability and conflict, noting: “Despite attempts by blood-feeding circles to sabotage the process, all our institutions continue their work with the goal of ‘from centuries-old unity to eternal brotherhood.’ The public observes these efforts with both careful attention and deep hope.”

A Vision of Long-Term Unity

The president emphasized coexistence and solidarity across Turkey’s diverse communities, highlighting the enduring presence of Turks, Arabs, and Kurds in the region. Erdoğan affirmed: “As Turks, Arabs, and Kurds, we will continue to live side by side in this land until the end of time. Even after those who feed on Muslim blood leave the stage of history, we will remain here. Remember, we will be at Malazgirt.”

By invoking historical figures such as Sultan Alparslan and Saladin (Selahaddin Eyyubi), Erdoğan tied contemporary counterterrorism initiatives to the legacy of past leaders who defended and united the region. He framed the current efforts as part of a long-term vision for Turkey and the surrounding region, emphasizing both national and regional security.

“Turkey Without Terror” as a Foundation for Regional Stability

The president outlined a sequence for national and regional development: first, achieving a terror-free Turkey, followed by establishing a terror-free region. Erdoğan asserted that these efforts are intertwined with the broader concept of the “Turkey Century”, which envisions a strong, united, and prosperous Turkey. This initiative emphasizes strategic patience, institutional coordination, and public support as essential elements for sustainable peace.

Erdoğan’s remarks stressed that dismantling terrorist networks and mitigating internal and regional conflicts are not just security priorities, but are also integral to the nation’s social and cultural cohesion. The “Terörsüz Türkiye” initiative represents a holistic approach to stability, unity, and prosperity, seeking to create an environment where citizens can live safely and contribute to the country’s development without fear of violence or discord.

Public Engagement and Hope

The president highlighted the active role of citizens in observing and supporting the initiative. According to Erdoğan, the public follows these developments with both caution and hope, reflecting a shared national aspiration for peace and unity. By emphasizing collective responsibility and vigilance, the speech reinforced the idea that counterterrorism is a societal effort, not solely a governmental one.

Erdoğan’s speech at Malazgirt serves both as a reaffirmation of national unity and as a strategic vision for the future. By combining references to historical legacies, contemporary policy goals, and citizen engagement, the president framed the initiative as a cornerstone for a resilient, secure, and prosperous Turkey.

The Malazgirt address highlights the ongoing governmental commitment to dismantling divisions, ensuring that the country’s institutions operate effectively while maintaining public confidence. Erdoğan’s narrative underscores that, even amid historical and geopolitical challenges, Turkey seeks to achieve lasting peace, security, and cooperation among all communities.