Erdoğan calls Türkiye as "the last exit before the bridge" For permanent European security

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan referred to Türkiye as "the last exit before the bridge," underscoring the nation's strategic importance amid the European Union's significant security challenges, particularly in the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

He emphasised that Türkiye’s balanced, consistent, and principled approach has proven its value as the situation continues to unfold, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

Erdoğan also stressed, "We have consistently stressed that a peace without Russia or Ukraine will never be lasting," reiterating Türkiye's belief in a comprehensive resolution to the conflict. He further highlighted Türkiye's aim to strengthen its relations with the EU, with mutual respect and shared interests at the core of its goal for full membership.

The Turkish president expressed hope that European leaders would recognise Türkiye's evolving role in the reshaped global order and adjust their strategies accordingly. Erdoğan concluded that once this mutual understanding is achieved, relations between Türkiye and Europe will flourish rapidly across all domains.

Moreover, president Erdoğan has shared promising economic news, emphasising Türkiye's strong position within the global economy. "In 2024, with a 3.2% growth rate, we have ranked fourth among G20 countries," he said.

"Our national income has surpassed $1.3 trillion, and our per capita income has exceeded $15,000. With the momentum from investments and exports, we will achieve even stronger growth this year."

Erdoğan also highlighted that Türkiye's Central Bank reserves have surpassed $165 billion, a key indicator of the nation’s financial strength. Despite spending $75 billion to heal the wounds of the February 6 earthquakes, the budget deficit has remained manageable. "In fact, we are in a better position than even some emerging economies in this regard," he remarked. Additionally, Türkiye has reduced its current account deficit to just 0.8% of its GDP, while its debt burden has lightened and risk premiums have fallen.

The President noted that confidence within Türkiye's real sector is on the rise, with industrial production recovering and employment figures climbing. "Since May 2023, more than 1 million new jobs have been created," Erdoğan added.

He also celebrated the lowest-ever unemployment rate for men, which has fallen to 6.5%. Addressing the issue of inflation, Erdoğan said, "We have made significant progress in the fight against inflation. In February, inflation dropped to 39%, and this decrease will continue throughout the rest of the year. Just as we succeeded in previous governments, we will bring inflation back to single digits. As inflation continues to fall, the purchasing power of our citizens will increase."

By Aghakazim Guliyev