Turkish VP calls for stronger diplomacy, closer Europe–Türkiye cooperation

The weakening of international institutions and a perceived regression of the global order established after the Second World War are becoming increasingly evident, Türkiye’s Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz has said.

Addressing a panel session held as part of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Yılmaz said Türkiye is clearly experiencing this trend in its own region as well, stressing that while risks and challenges are numerous, new opportunities are also emerging, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

“The importance of bilateral cooperation and partnership is increasing, and against the backdrop of conflicts, the role of diplomacy becomes even more evident. At present, cooperation at the global level is of particular importance. We clearly see the role of diplomacy and feel it even more strongly in the context of conflicts,” Yılmaz noted.

The Vice President also highlighted Türkiye’s position as both a NATO member and a participant in the Organization of Turkic States.

“We are one of the parties involved in shaping international institutions. We are supporters not of wars, but of diplomacy. Justice and peace are our main priorities,” Yılmaz said.

Turning to Europe, Yılmaz stressed the need for stronger political leadership amid global shifts.

“Europe today needs stronger leaders, a requirement that is increasingly important in the context of reshaping the global order,” he said.

Yılmaz added that the European Union could play an important role in current developments across the region.

“Cooperation between Türkiye and Europe is expected to develop, and Ankara declares its readiness to cooperate in this direction. Türkiye, located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, can play an important role within this broad cooperation,” Yılmaz stressed.

By Vafa Guliyeva