Daily Agenda
President Erdoğan: We will not oppress the Turkish community in Europe
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said, “At a time when the wave of crisis and uncertainty is rising from Europe to Asia, we need more solidarity and more brotherhood than ever before in order not to collapse against the winds of trouble and disaster.” he said.
Erdoğan received the participants of the International Union of Democrats (UID) Capacity Building and Training Workshop at the Beştepe Nation Exhibition Hall.
Erdogan, who started his speech by greeting the guests, said, “As you know, ‘Muhammad became the result of love, what is the result of love without Muhammad?’ “I would like to express my pleasure to be with you at such a table in our Presidential Complex and to participate in this table from all corners of the world.” he said.
President Erdoğan, who sent his greetings and love to more than 7 million citizens living abroad from Europe to Asia, from Africa to the Balkans, from America to Australia, in the person of the participants, said: “Through you, I convey my love to our compatriot and relative communities with whom we share the same past, dive into the same horizon, and look at the world and the future from the same window.” he said.
Wishing that the end-of-year Capacity Building and Training Workshop would be beneficial for citizens abroad, especially European Turks, Erdoğan continued as follows:
At the very beginning of my words, I would like to congratulate your blessed three months and your Leyle-i Regaib, whom we will realize tonight. I hope that this important night, where the climate of mercy and forgiveness surrounds our hearts, will bring goodness for our 86 million citizens, our geography of hearts and the entire Islamic world. Our Prophet says in one of his hadiths: ‘A believer is like a green crop. It bends with the wind but does not collapse. When the wind calms down, he straightens up again. This is what a believer is like; It too bends due to troubles and calamities, but it does not collapse.’ Yes, as Muslims, our brothers and sisters in Palestine, Lebanon, Sudan and many other parts of the world are going through painful times.
More than 2 million Palestinians are trying to hold on to life in very difficult conditions in Gaza, which has turned into a pile of rubble due to Israel’s inhumane attacks. After 14 years of struggle just across our border, the Syrian people are making a desperate effort to regroup and get their country back on its feet, despite sabotage from inside and outside. “At a time when the wave of crisis and uncertainty is rising from Europe to Asia, we need more solidarity and more brotherhood than ever before in order not to collapse against the winds of trouble and disaster.”
“ONE OF THE STRONGEST CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS IN EUROPE”
Erdoğan wished that the three months and the Night of Regaib would lead to peace and relief for all people struggling for life and dignity in lands wrought with blood, pain and tears, especially in Gaza and Palestine, and said, “I also request you not to forget these brothers in your prayers. May God make our work easier and strengthen our people and brotherhood.” he said.
Stating that the International Union of Democrats, which turned 21 this year, carries out very important work with 38 regional directorates and 253 branches in 17 European countries, Erdoğan said, “Thanks to the Union, it is closely interested in all kinds of problems of our citizens abroad who have turned their homes into a home. The International Union of Democrats, one of the most powerful non-governmental organizations in Europe, fulfills a critical mission with the projects and activities it develops. Increasing the democratic and active participation of our brothers and sisters who live thousands of kilometers away from their homeland, “Once again, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude in your presence to the International Democratic Union, which has made great efforts to integrate into their society without being assimilated, to have a strong presence in politics, economy, commercial and social life, and to reach better positions in every field.” he said.
“WE WORKED HARDER THAN EVERYONE TO KEEP IT IN WILD HANDS”
In addition, President Erdoğan wished success to the International Democratic Union, which fights against acts and discourses that contain hate, incite hostility, such as cultural racism, discrimination, Islamophobia and xenophobia, and said:
“I would like to express my gratitude to all my brothers who have worked for the International Democratic Union since its establishment, contributed to its activities, and had a share in bringing the Union to this point. I pray God’s mercy to our brothers who served at different levels of the Union, worked selflessly for our citizens abroad, but are not with us today. First of all, we are all aware of this; it has never been easy for our national presence abroad to reach today’s levels. We walked against the wind, we were exposed to racist attacks, we were in the wild. We worked harder than anyone else to hold on, we were neglected, we were humiliated, we sacrificed our young people like Fidan, our children with bright eyes, and our brothers with calloused hands, to racist terror.
You, the sad volunteers who waved from the back of the train departing from Sirkeci, sprinkled water, longed here, paid the price, and endured difficulties. You know what the poet says; ‘The train goes from Sirkeci, the wagon goes, my problem goes away. I live alone in a foreign land, my life goes away. The train goes from Sirkeci to Duran from Erzurum and Burhan from Ankara. Here there is adhan, there the bell rings above us every morning, wake up, wake up. A train goes from Sirkeci, a gilded Quran goes.’ Yes, these verses, which are engraved in all of our minds and hearts, show very clearly what today’s successes are for. Behind these successes, the foundations of which were laid in the 1960s, there is labor, sweat, determination, suffering and perseverance. On the one hand, our citizens who strive to earn their living, on the other hand, have not forgotten their homeland and made very important contributions to Türkiye. “Despite all the obstacles it has faced, the Turkish diaspora has managed to survive and have a say, influence and will in every field.”
Speaking here, Erdoğan said that, as Turkey, we are proud of those who add value to the countries they live in and are proud of their success, and that they are proud of all the achievements they have achieved, from academia to bureaucracy, from civil society to the business world, from science to culture, art and sports, as 86 million people.
Emphasizing that today, compared to 65 years ago, we see a strong Turkish diaspora that makes significant contributions to the countries they live in with tens of thousands of businesses they own, plays leading roles in production and investment, and makes a significant contribution to the country’s economy, foreign policy and soft power, Erdoğan said:
“Look, even the tourism figures alone are enough to understand what our brothers abroad do for the Turkish economy. 10.3 billion dollars of the 60.5 billion dollars of tourism income we obtained in 2024 was generated by the direct contribution of our citizens abroad. 9.6 million of the 62.2 million visitors coming to Türkiye are our brothers residing abroad. If you pay attention, we do not include exports, investments, employment and other contributions. In other words, there are many companies that provide very important services to Türkiye, which provide very important services to the Turkish economy. “We are talking about a great manpower of more than 7 million, which provides serious support.”
“THE OPPOSITION IS NOT ASHAMED OF TARGETING EUROPEAN TURKS”
Erdoğan pointed out that as he praised the achievements of the Turkish diaspora, some people were disturbed by this.
Pointing out that the contribution of citizens abroad to Türkiye and strengthening their ties with their father’s home unsettles certain circles, Erdoğan said, “The most important of these is the opposition. The opposition is not ashamed of targeting European Turks with the troll armies they feed with their MPs and media. They have such an arrogant mentality that they are enemies of the oppressed who took refuge in our country to save their lives. They are enemies of guest students who will be Türkiye’s heartfelt ambassadors. They are enemies of our expatriate brothers whose hearts are burning with longing for their homeland. “They are enemies of the voluntary organizations that protect the country’s young generations. They have no respect for anyone but themselves. They cannot bear to hear a nice word about Türkiye.” he said.
“THEY ARE LOSERS AGAINST WESTERN PEOPLE, BUT THEY ARE ARMY WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR OWN PEOPLE”
Erdoğan noted that people who are incapable of seeing even the tip of their noses rudely attack European Turks with ugly expressions such as “zob”, and insult those who work 11 months a year, sweat, and rush to their hometown in the summer with what they spend from their teeth and nails, and continued his words as follows:
“While doing this to our expatriates, they do not see any harm, problem or problem in begging for 5 minutes from foreigners, or trampling their dignity just to be addressed for 5 minutes. They are losers in the face of Westerners, but they are rude and insolent when it comes to their own people. Here, I would like to say this clearly once again. We do not allow any of our people to be oppressed or despised, whether they live within our borders or abroad. With their struggles, their sacrifices, and the tears they often shed.” No one can disrespect you, our brothers and sisters, who turned the homeland into a homeland and turned the bitter homeland into a second home, regardless of their title or title. We will not allow anyone to oppress the European Turkish community who accompany our march for the Turkey Century. I say again, no one can treat you like a stepchild, point a finger at you, or give you the upper hand. My dear brothers and sisters, as European Turks, you are the true and true children of this country, you are the doors of this country to the world. You are a part of our lives wherever you live. Past governments may have ignored you or neglected you for decades, but each of you, along with our 7 million people who have built their lives all over the world, deserve the best of respect and service.
“WE WILL CONTINUE TO SERVE YOU”
Erdoğan emphasized that in the last 23 years, they have worked especially for citizens abroad as well as citizens in the country, and that they have embraced the entire Turkish diaspora with the relevant institutions as the state and the Directorate of Foreign Relations within the AK Party.
Stating that they still support citizens abroad with the institutions they established, the regulations they implemented, the projects, works and services, Erdoğan said:
“As people who have personally benefited from these, you already know very well what we do for foreign citizens. With the law changes we made in 2012, we enabled our voters abroad to vote from the ballot boxes established in our embassies and consulates. We have implemented more than 60 regulations so far, from military to retirement procedures, from population and citizenship to customs and notary services. We currently offer consular services on around 80 different subjects. We have contacted 650 people in the last 11 months with our consular call center. We have responded to more than a thousand calls. We have taken an important step for the future of the Turkish diaspora by establishing our Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities. The Presidency for Turks Abroad provides solutions to your problems, defends your rights and laws, and carries out many activities for our children and youth. Our AK Party Foreign Relations Presidency continues to keep the pulse of our citizens abroad, especially through representative offices, in places where the Turkish community is densely populated. “We never lose touch with our brothers and sisters. Hopefully, we will continue to serve you by adding new ones.”
“YOU WILL NOT CLOSE INTO YOURSELF, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE EMBRACING AND ENVIRONING”
Erdoğan asked the citizens living abroad to always be united, to be united, and to firmly protect their culture and brotherhood.
Demanding citizens to be actively present in politics, business life, academia and civil society, Erdogan said:
“You will not withdraw into yourself, you will always be embracing and encompassing. You will not allow anyone to provoke you or pull you outside the circle of law and legitimacy. You will definitely protect and strengthen your ties with your country. I trust you. May God be your friend and helper. With these thoughts, I once again greet you, our esteemed guests who have come to our table, with love and respect. I convey my special greetings to each of our citizens living abroad.”
Vegetables, fruits… Cheese, olives… Shoes, bags… Home textiles… T-shirts, shirts, towels, sheets… Whatever comes to your mind.
Laleli District Market… It’s quite crowded.
– Hey market tradesmen… Your fellow countryman Özgür Özel left CHP… He founded a party… New Party… What do you say?
Cenk Gülçimen… He sells peaches and lemons… He said:
– A good opposition is always needed.
A customer… A retired teacher… He said, “That’s right.”
– It will not constantly fight and insult… It will call what is right right, it will criticize what is wrong… It will tell the truth… An opposition that will give confidence is truly Türkiye’s most important need.
***
HERE IS THE OPPOSITION
When I listened to the marketer Cenk Gülçimen and the customer, the retired teacher… I said, “The late Professor Turan Güneş also said that.”
The friends next to me… Ertuğrul Aytaç… Tarkan Kayhan… And the marketers… Those who came to shop… They asked:
– What did Turan Güneş say?
Legendary Minister of Foreign Affairs… Turan Güneş, a politician and statesman who was on duty during the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation, said:
“In our country, opposition is divided into two as constructive and destructive… The opposition that says everything is right is constructive… The opposition that says everything is wrong is destructive.”
“He was right,” said someone in the crowd. The other said, “Where did he say it?” he asked. I explained… Prof. Güneş’s book… Analysis of Turkish Democracy.
Turan Güneş’s words are written in this book. This time everyone started asking me for this book… Maybe 10 people.
“Look at the bookstores,” I said:
– If you can’t find it, call Professor Hurşit Güneş… Have him send you his father’s book if he has extra.
***
NOTES FROM THE MARKET
Keep wandering… The market is clean… Prices are cheaper than Istanbul… Bodrum.
– Hey market tradesmen… More… What else do you say?
A bunch of the answers we received:
Mr. Özgür did the right thing by establishing a new party… Congratulations.
Its name is the New Party, but… Those with it are old… Some of them have been members of parliament for three or five terms.
If I were Özgür Özel, I would not establish the party with 90 MPs… Tomorrow, they will all want to be MPs.
Özgür Bey is loyal… That’s why he took 90 MPs with him.
***
CHAT WITH ÖZGÜR ÖZEL
It’s around 11:00… Continue chatting with the marketers.
And the phone… In front of us is Özgür Özel.
– Mr. Özgür… I’m in Manisa… I’m at the neighborhood market… With your permission, I’ll turn up the phone… Hear what the market vendors say.
Özgür Özel, “Hello friends, how are you?” he said.
Marketers… Some thanked… Some wished success… Meanwhile… Customers in the market also joined the conversation. Özgür Özel and the people in the market liked the phone call.
***
ENGINEER SAID…
After the phone was hung up… An engineer… He came to market with his wife… He said:
– I wish you hadn’t hung up the phone… I was going to say a few words to Mr. Özgür.
– What were you going to say?
– I was going to say the following… Don’t speak for those who remain in the CHP… Don’t say hurtful words… Don’t insult… Conditions may change tomorrow… You may need to see them face to face again.
The engineer’s words… found a response in the crowd.
Ertuğrul Aytaç handed over a pen and paper:
– Write these down too… Write them in the newspaper… True words.
***
COMMON SENSE
Interestingly… We heard similar words from the engineer from Manisa from CHP Istanbul Deputy Oğuz Kaan Salicı a few days ago:
What happened went beyond division… The pomegranate peel cracked.
While some of the social media are shouting cheerful slogans, we are heartbroken.
The MPs who left are sad, and so are those who remain.
Let’s not break each other’s hearts.
Yesterday we were seeing each other face to face… We will greet each other again tomorrow.
***
WRITING IS A MUST
There are also retirees in the market.
No… We are not talking about retirees who come to market. Retired marketers… BAĞ-KUR retirees… SGK retirees… Civil servant retirees… EYT retirees.
I congratulated… There is no shame in marketing… They do it well… It’s their bread and butter. But I also have to write this… Retirees are in trouble… I listened to retirees in Manisa the other day… They are in trouble.
***
NEW PARTY’S ‘LUGGAGE’ PROBLEM
Market shopkeeper… He refers to Özgür Özel as “Brother”… He says his name but does not want it to be written:
– Abi Özgür would have done better if he had not taken some MPs with him when establishing the New Party.
– For example, who?
– They have heavy baggage… When the election comes up tomorrow, they will all be a burden on Özgür Abi… Is the Chairman obliged to carry these on his back?
– Who?
The marketer starts laughing… And other marketers. Just marketers? Both the friends we went to the market with… And the customers.
***
‘GAS’ CASE
It’s past 12:00… And our phone is ringing.
The caller is İbrahim Onaylı… Kebab shop.
“I’m waiting” he says:
– Manisa kebab is ready… And your dessert… Also, there are customers who want to talk to you.
– Thank you, İbrahim… All of them are prohibited… We will stop by to drink tea another time.
Marketers… They are glad we didn’t go to dinner. But… They don’t want us to go hungry either. Some want to offer peaches… Some want to offer cherries.
And… The conversation goes on and on. This time the speaker is a businessman… His business is olives and olive oil:
– Mr. Özgür should not listen to the words of the trolls… He should not get angry… He should not act with someone else’s mind.
***
TOMORROW… ‘LIKE A MOVIE’
Party provincial-district chairmanship… It’s me… No, it’s me… Get out… I won’t go out… You will… I’m not going out, the police will take it out.
The problem experienced in many provinces of Türkiye… It’s like a movie… There is both fighting and laughter.
We will tell you tomorrow…
Daily Agenda
AK Party Eskişehir Provincial Minister Gürhan Albayrak: We will not let Eskişehir residents lose their rights! Public receivables of 550 thousand liras must be accounted for
AK Party Eskişehir Provincial Chairman Gürhan Albayrak made remarkable statements about the three political programs held at the Atatürk Culture Art and Congress Center (AKM) belonging to Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality, during the term of former CHP Eskişehir Provincial Chairman Talat Yalaz. Albayrak stated that the CHP Provincial Congress held on October 19, 2025, the program held on March 8, 2026 with the participation of CHP Chairman Özgür Özel, and the local organization of the group meeting held in the past weeks were carried out by the then CHP Provincial Chairman Talat Yalaz and his team.
NO PRICE HAS BEEN PAID
Reminding that according to the fee tariffs published by Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality, AKM’s rental fee for 2025 is 150 thousand TL and the rental fee for 2026 is 200 thousand TL per program, Albayrak stated that a total of 550 thousand TL rental fee should be collected for the three programs in question. Albayrak claimed that, according to the information they obtained, none of these fees were paid, and also said that there were claims that there was no previously prepared request letter, contract or protocol regarding the allocation of the halls.
IF PAYMENT HAS BEEN MADE, SHARE THE DOCUMENTS
Albayrak called on both Talat Yalaz and Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ayşe Ünlüce on the issue and asked the following questions: “Who applied to the Metropolitan Municipality for these three programs? Have the rental fees of the halls been paid? If so, will the invoices and payment receipts be shared with the public?” Addressing the municipal administration, Albayrak said, “With what written request, decision and legal basis was the AKM allocated? Has a total of 550 thousand TL been accrued and collected? If not, why was this fee not collected? Who gave the instruction for free use?” he said.
ESKİŞEHİR PEOPLE’S RIGHTS WILL NOT BE Abolished
Arguing that Talat Yalaz’s expulsion from CHP or turning to a new political formation will not eliminate his financial and political responsibility for the programs carried out in the past, Albayrak said, “Parties may change, signs may change; the rights of Eskişehir residents will not be eliminated.” he said.
WE WILL BRING THE ISSUE TO THE ASSEMBLY AGENDA
In his statement, Albayrak also stated that they will bring the issue to the agenda of Eskişehir Metropolitan Municipality Council and stated that they will demand official and written answers to all questions. Gürhan Albayrak said, “Our expectation is clear. If payment has been made, disclose the documents to the public. If not, hold the people of Eskişehir accountable for why the public receivable of 550 thousand liras has not been collected.” He completed his statement by saying.
Daily Agenda
The Iraqi Minister first insisted and then signed! Who did the Development Road Project disturb? Here’s what’s behind the scenes
After President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaydi had a one-on-one meeting at the Presidential Complex and chaired the meeting between delegations, agreements were signed between the two countries.
“Education and Academic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding” was signed by Police Academy President Murat Balcı and Iraqi Prime Minister and Armed Forces Commander’s Private Secretary General Abdulemir Shammari. The “Memorandum of Understanding in the Fields of Youth and Sports” was signed by Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak and Iraqi Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hüseyin. The “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Industrial Property” was signed by the Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır and the Iraqi Minister of Finance Falih Sari. The “Memorandum of Understanding on Railway and Road Transport through the Fishhabur-Ovaköy Border Gate” and the “Framework Memorandum of Understanding on the Development of Transportation Infrastructure within the Republic of Iraq in Exchange for Natural Resources” were also signed by Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu and Iraqi Minister of Transport Veheb Selman Muhammed.
The agreement ceremony was marked by Iraqi Minister of Transport Veheb Salman Muhammed’s insistence on signing the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Development Road Project. Following the intervention and instruction of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Zaydi, the relevant agreements were signed.
(Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu and Iraqi Minister of Transport Veheb Selman Muhammed signing the agreement)
It was noteworthy that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also warned about what happened during the signing ceremony and asked for additional information from the Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan.
After the images attracted the attention of the world media; SETA Foreign Policy Researcher Can Acun gave striking answers to Sabah.com.tr’s questions about the Development Path Project, the changing balances in the Middle East and President Erdoğan’s determined diplomatic moves.
SETA Foreign Policy Researcher Can Acun
WHAT LIES BEHIND THE SCENES?
Can Acun emphasized the importance of the Development Road Project in terms of the national security and commercial interests of both Iraq and Türkiye. He pointed out that the project is at a critical angle for the continuity of global logistics lines. Can Acun said, “A while ago, I carried out various field studies in Iraq in the context of the Development Road Project. I had the chance to meet with many main actors there. I also met with the officials of the Bedir organization and political structure, to which the Minister of Transport is affiliated. All of them stated that they definitely supported the project in these meetings and that it was seriously important for the future of Iraq.” he said.
Can Acun said, “There is a new government in Iraq, a new Prime Minister, a cabinet formed by him and a certain struggle within the framework of internal political balances.” he said.
Stating that highways, train lines, various industrial zones and new agricultural areas will be created with the Development Road Project, Can Acun said, “We see that it is a project exceeding 20 billion dollars.” he said.
Drawing attention to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the events in Babülmendep, Can Acun said, “In this sense, we can talk about an equation in which the Development Road Project has become much more important. Apart from the highway and train line, it is also very possible to transport oil here.” he used his words.
THE AXIS OF THE DISCUSSIONS IN IRAQ
Emphasizing the size of the economic volume that will be created with the Development Road Project, Acun pointed to Iraq’s internal balance. He stated that there are discussions between different political groups in the country on many issues, from how the process will work to the routes to be used, whether Hashd al-Shaabi elements will play a role in security or not, to the sharing of the financial share and revenue that will arise.
Can Acun said, “This signature issue in Türkiye should be evaluated in this context. We should not read it as a party against the project, but on the contrary, we can read it as a manifestation of Iraq’s internal balances in the context of sharing the new wealth that may occur here.” He included his statements.
HOW DOES IRAN APPROACH THE PROJECT?
While many evaluations were made on social media about its closeness to Iran after Iraqi Minister of Transport Veheb Salman Muhammed resisted signing, Can Acun touched on Tehran’s approach. Acun noted that Iran has an ambivalent position. Can Acun said, “Although Iran seems to support the project from the outside, it may have an impact in terms of breaking the blockade it has currently created in the context of the Strait of Hormuz. It can also be seen as a project that can reduce Iran’s strategic importance in the connectivity corridors. In this context, it may try to use various influence forces within Iraq. However, almost all the actors within Iraq, that is, even the groups working closely with Iran, have to officially support the project. Because I think this project is really critical for the future of Iraq.”
The multilateral diplomacy traffic that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has recently established with Iraq, Gulf countries (UAE, Qatar) and regional actors plays an important role in creating both peace and economic prosperity in the Middle East. While Türkiye’s role in the international arena becomes stronger day by day, the Development Path Project will make a significant contribution to these steps.
Can Acun opened a separate parenthesis to the developments in the Middle East and said, “There is currently chaos in the Middle East in the context of the aggressive policies of the United States and Israel. We see that Iran has responded to this and closed the Strait of Hormuz, which is the biggest trump card it has, and the conflicts have even deepened, and in the context of Yemen, the Houthis have started to cut off the Bab al-Mandeb, and ships belonging to various countries, especially Saudi Arabia, have begun to blockade.” he said.
“THE ALTERNATIVES PUT OUT BY Türkiye ARE CRITICALLY IMPORTANT”
Noting that America’s blockade against Tehran has created a very serious global energy crisis in the region and the world, Can Acun said, “We see that 20% of the world’s oil and petrochemical industry is produced in the region and exported to the world through these straits. But now there is a serious interruption and there is uncertainty about the future. Therefore, I think the new global logistics lines put forward by Türkiye and new alternatives in terms of new energy supply security are of critical importance for the world and the region.” he said.
President Erdoğan emphasized the Development Road Project at the joint press conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi:
The war environment drives us to deepen our cooperation not only in defense but also in the fields of energy and transportation. The Development Road Project has become more important than ever in the face of current developments.
Can Acun noted that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan demonstrated the geographical and strategic importance of Türkiye with the diplomatic steps he took. Acun said that Türkiye has emerged as a country that can protect these lines with both its political will and military deterrent power.
Can Acun said:
Zangezur Corridor seriously manifests itself as the Middle Corridor. At the same time, Türkiye attaches strategic value, attaches importance and seriously supports the Development Road Project. However, there are alternative corridors. The Hejaz Line from Saudi Arabia to Türkiye again passing through Syria; Again, transportation of oil and energy resources in Kirkuk to the world via Türkiye and Ceyhan; In fact, Türkiye has serious proposals and efforts to open the oil produced on a scale that can include Kuwait in the Persian Gulf with the Development Path to the world from here via the Iraq-Türkiye line.
PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN’S REGIONAL ADOPTION POLICY…
Now we see that the world attaches great importance to this. Because the current situation does not seem sustainable in any way. There is an outage that could cause a global energy crisis. Therefore, the security of the region and these straits and the possibility of supply shortages for the future will always be on the table, and investment in alternative corridors will increase. In this sense, I think the strong political will and strong military deterrent power of Türkiye, which President Erdoğan has included with his regional ownership policy, will enable alternative corridors to be implemented in this sense.
Daily Agenda
Minister Tekin evaluated the international reflections of Türkiye’s new practices in education
The new curriculum, digitalization steps and the rise in international student success research that the Ministry of National Education has implemented in education in recent years are reflected in the reports of international organizations and attract the attention of education circles. Türkiye’s rising graph, revealed by the new curriculum within the scope of the Turkey Century Education Model, the steps taken in the field of digitalization, and research such as the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) and the International Mathematics and Science Trends Survey (TIMSS) conducted by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), are among the headlines that attract attention in the international arena. The Turkey Century Education Model, which emerged as the product of a ten-year long-term study by the Ministry and started to be gradually implemented in the 2024-2025 academic year, centers on skill-based learning, values education and the holistic development of students as well as knowledge transfer. In various international meetings and diplomatic contacts between countries, Türkiye’s new curriculum approach is followed by many countries, especially OECD member countries, and evaluations are made that the skill-oriented structure of the model is compatible with global education trends.
At the G20 Education Ministers Meeting held in the Republic of South Africa in November last year, the Ministry of National Education’s breakthroughs and outstanding practices in the field of education were cited as an example to the world by UNICEF. UNICEF Global Education and Adolescent Development Director Pia Britto stated that the “value and skill-based” Türkiye Century Education Model has been appreciated internationally. Pointing out that face-to-face training for teachers to prepare for the new curriculum stands out as exemplary practices, Britto stated that Türkiye is among the countries that successfully implement national standards in early childhood education with its centralized education system. In the news made by an agency from Azerbaijan, it was stated that the Turkish Century Education Model deals with value education, character development and national spiritual identity together with academic development, thus Türkiye has achieved a comprehensive transformation not only in infrastructure but also with an education model that overlaps with its own values.
“WE EXPECT Türkiye’S SUPPORT ON THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION”
While positive opinions about Türkiye’s progress in the field of digitalization in education were included in some reports, it was stated that Türkiye’s experiences in this regard were appreciated in the meetings held at the ministerial level. While the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) reports draw attention to Türkiye’s global leadership in educational technologies, the report emphasizes that Turkey is the only country in the world with interactive whiteboards and internet infrastructure in almost all of its classrooms. In her meeting with Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin, Kyrgyzstan Minister of Education Dogdurkul Kendirbaeva stated that they watched Türkiye’s use of artificial intelligence and technology in education with appreciation and said, “We expect Türkiye’s support in the use of technology in the field of education.” he said. Former Head of the European Union Delegation to Türkiye, Ambassador Thomas Ossowski, also stated that they are proud of the successful projects carried out with the Ministry of Education and that Türkiye can be a role model for other countries in many areas, especially digitalization in education. In the “Education at a Glance 2025 Report” published by the OECD and presenting comparative data on education systems, it was emphasized that Türkiye showed a strong increase in education. The report revealed that Türkiye stands out among OECD countries in increasing inclusiveness in education and bringing the young population into education.
“NOT BECAUSE THEY FOUND A MAGIC WAND, BUT BECAUSE THEY BUILT CONSISTENT SYSTEMS”
Türkiye’s ranking in the latest application of TIMSS, conducted by OECD as well as PISA, attracted the attention of representatives of many countries and institutions. The Japanese education delegation visited the Ministry and examined Türkiye’s rising success in PISA research and its practices in the field of measurement and evaluation. In his meeting with Minister Tekin, OECD Secretary General Mathias Cormann stated that Türkiye is one of the few countries showing a trend in the right direction in the last 10 years of PISA results. OECD Director of Education Andreas Schleicher pointed out that Türkiye’s moves in the field of education show that it can turn things around in crises, and said, “Not because they found a magic wand, but because they built consistent systems, mobilized local resources to make education sustainable, and invested in workforce policies where better skills translate into better jobs and better lives…” UNESCO Deputy Director-General for Education and former Italian Minister of Education Stefania Giannini also emphasized that Turkey is one of the bright examples of countries that come from different perspectives and challenges, produce solutions and make progress.
STUDENTS WERE MONITORED WITH THE MONUMENT RESEARCH IN THE YEARS WHEN PISA AND TIMSS WERE NOT APPLIED
Minister of National Education Tekin made statements about the practices implemented by Türkiye in education and their reflections in the international arena. Tekin explained that they have improved the education and training system since the 2010s, both with the monitoring and evaluation units they established within the Ministry and in terms of international indicators. Stating that they have established a system within the Ministry that analyzes, monitors, evaluates and reports physical infrastructure, academic success and human resources practices through artificial intelligence, Tekin said, “Where, which of our schools needs what, all our general manager friends and friends in relevant units can see it electronically. This is about physical infrastructure and technological infrastructure.” made his assessment. Reminding that they started the Monitoring and Evaluation of Academic Skills (ABIDE) research, which is one of the national monitoring research of the Ministry, regarding their academic achievements, Tekin stated that they monitored the academic achievements of students by conducting this research in the years when PISA and TIMSS were not implemented.
Reminding that organizations such as OECD and UNESCO publish reports on education and training processes at routine intervals, Tekin said, “These organizations publish reports with names such as ‘Education Outlook’ and implement cycles to monitor academic skills, as in the PISA and TIMSS examples. In these two evaluations, we were determining and implementing our policies based on both internal and external evaluations.” shared his knowledge.
“THE POINT WE HAVE REACHED IN TERMS OF INDICATORS IS IMPORTANT”
Tekin said, “Especially during the July 15 period, with the tutelage structures and practices over the Ministry blocked, Türkiye’s achievements in international reports began to gain upward momentum.” he said. Referring to the international reports published on education in Türkiye, Tekin continued his words as follows: “It is clearly stated that Türkiye exceeds the international averages in issues such as the schooling rate, the number of students per classroom, the number of students per teacher, the use of technology in education. This is important for us and we continue to take steps to ensure its continuation and not fall behind in this sense. This will continue as education and training has been given first priority in all our budgets since the date our President became prime minister. Therefore, physical and technological infrastructure and similar financial resources.” “The problems related to these issues have been largely solved. I say largely because we live in an earthquake zone. Such needs will arise as earthquake strengthening, earthquake controls and analyzes are carried out. We have schools that have completed their economic life, the process of demolishing and rebuilding them will continue, but the point we have reached in terms of indicators is important.”
“WHEN OUR CURRICULUM BECAME SKILL-FOCUSED, THESE ACHIEVEMENTS STARTED TO INCREASE”
Minister Tekin told them in international environments in 2013-2014, “Since your programs are still focused on providing information to children, there is no possibility of your children being successful in international exams.” He reminded me that it was said. Stating that when they wanted to make a skill-oriented program, they encountered obstacles from the tutelage forces whose interests were harmed, Tekin said, “When those structures were closed and our education programs and curriculum became skill-oriented, these successes began to increase.” expressed his opinion. Türkiye Century Education Model regarding Türkiye’s education system: “You do not have a skill-oriented structure.” Emphasizing that they prepared it to eliminate criticism, Tekin said that the new curriculum was prepared by taking the opinions of international structures, teachers and academics.
Reminding that the 59th PISA Board of Directors Meeting was held in Türkiye in May last year, Tekin continued his words as follows: “After the presentation we made to them there, it was decided that these program changes should be translated into different languages and explained to different countries. Delegations from many countries started to be requested from us to explain these, and our friends are telling this. This has started to be reflected in the scores.” Tekin stated that Türkiye achieved great success in terms of international indicators in the recently announced TIMSS scores and emphasized that it ranked 4th in 4th grade science, 7th in 8th grade science, 8th in 4th grade mathematics and 10th among OECD countries in 8th grade mathematics.
“WE WANT OUR CHILDREN TO BE STRONG WHILE COMPETING IN THE INTERNATIONAL ARENA”
Reminding that PISA 2025 results will be announced in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, on September 8, Tekin stated that OECD has high expectations from Türkiye. Minister Tekin said, “We want our children to be strong while competing in the international arena, but on the other hand, we do not want them to move away from the values that make us who we are. Therefore, we look at the issue in this way. While talking to the officials of other countries, we share that these should be included in education programs in order for that country’s own future to be embraced by its children, for children to internalize world peace, and for ending human rights violations and wars in the world.” he said.
Daily Agenda
Clear statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: We confirm our full support to the Turkish Cypriot people.
In his statement on his social media account, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli said, “We appreciate the efforts made by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres regarding the Cyprus issue since the beginning of his duty. In this period when there is still no common ground for a solution between the two parties on the island, we believe that focusing on progress in important areas of cooperation within the scope of the process initiated by Secretary General Guterres in 2025 will serve to build trust.” he said.
Öncü Keçeli said:
On the other hand, we emphasize once again that the solution perspective will not materialize unless the uncompromising attitude of the Greek Cypriot side changes and its actions that negatively affect regional security are stopped. We hereby draw attention once again that solution models that have been tried and exhausted over decades are a thing of the past. As the homeland and guarantor state, we reiterate that a fair, comprehensive and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue can be reached on the basis of the realities on the Island, the sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriot people. As always, we confirm our full support for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot people.
Daily Agenda
President of Religious Affairs Safi Arpaguş: We must be able to introduce our children to our own civilization values
According to the statement made by the Diyanet, Arpaguş spoke at the Childhood Quran Teaching Workshop themed “Educational Activities for Children in Quran Courses: Evaluation and Future Perspective” organized by the General Directorate of Educational Services.
Stating that early childhood is the most critical phase in which a person’s identity, personality and character are shaped, Arpaguş said, “In this respect, we see Quran courses for ages 4-6 as not only a teaching process in which the skill of reading the Quran is acquired, but also as a strategic education area that aims to protect the child’s nature, support his spiritual and moral development, and contribute to the construction of a solid identity and personality.” made his assessment.
Drawing attention to the importance and sensitivity of childhood, Arpaguş continued as follows:
“We should measure our success in teaching the Quran not by how much students memorize, but by their ability to establish a relationship of love and trust with the Quran that will last a lifetime. What is more important than a child of four or five years old knowing all the letters is that he comes running to the Quran lesson. What is more valuable than memorizing long surahs for a child at that age is that he can learn the love of Allah in a compassion-centered way. Therefore, we measure our success criteria not only on the amount of memorization, recognition of letters or the level of applying the rules of tajwid, but also on participation in the lesson, desire to learn, social “We have to read through multidimensional indicators such as interaction and positive attitudes towards the Quran.”
Arpaguş stated that they aim to develop a Quran education model that brings together knowledge and wisdom and transforms it into morality, and said, “In order to bring our children together with our own civilization values, we have to develop a strong pedagogical approach centered on wisdom, as in the Islamic education tradition. When we can do this, we will achieve great success in Quran education and we will have come a long way towards raising faithful, knowledgeable, moral and personality generations.” he said.
Emphasizing that they are trying to make the most of the realities revealed by science and the possibilities and opportunities of the age in terms of preparing children for the future in the best possible way, Arpaguş said, “We are constantly trying to update our educational programs and course materials with the contributions of child psychologists, child development experts, pedagogues, academics and educators in the field. Our workshop held here today is a manifestation of this sensitivity.” made his assessment.
Deputy President of Religious Affairs Hüseyin Harikalar, Chairman of the Mushaf Examination and Reading Board Osman İyişenyürek and General Director of Educational Services Sedide Akbulut also attended the workshop.
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