Türkiye's National Security Council meets to focus on fighting terrorism

A meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) has been held in Ankara under the chairmanship of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The meeting emphasised that the plans of terrorist organisations will not hinder Türkiye's national security policy, which is being implemented with determination.

An official statement was released after the NSC meeting held at the presidential complex, Anadolu reported.

It said that during the discussions, political, military and economic developments that are important for Türkiye's national security were assessed and the issues that are likely to be faced in 2024 and the activities to be carried out within this framework were considered.

According to the statement, the Council was informed about the operations carried out with determination and purpose at home and abroad against all kinds of threats and dangers to national unity, solidarity and survival, especially the terrorist organisations PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETÖ and ISIS.

The speeches stated that Türkiye's national security policy, which is being implemented resolutely, cannot be hindered by the plans of terrorist organisations. It was reiterated that Türkiye will continue to pursue all terrorist organisations and their facilities that pose a threat to the country, regardless of time and place, within the framework of the rights derived from international law.

It was stated that the growing contacts with neighbouring Iraq strengthen the efforts for peace in our common geography, especially concrete steps in the fight against terrorist organisations.

"Lasting peace and stability, guaranteeing the well-being of all countries in our region, is possible only through a security environment free of terrorism," it said.

The National Security Council believes that continuing the Israeli massacres in Gaza will irreparably damage the peace and security environment, as well as the delicate balance in the region, and lead to spreading conflicts.

Concerning the recent developments in the Red Sea, the importance of an early resolution of the situation, including the implications of the Palestinian issue, which harms global stability, was underlined.

The meeting reviewed possible developments in Libya, Somalia and Sudan.

"Türkiye will continue its efforts for the solution of the current problems in contact with the relevant parties with respect for the territorial integrity of friendly and brotherly countries," the NSC said.

The importance of ending the Russia-Ukraine war, which increases regional and global risks, through an urgent ceasefire and lasting peace was reiterated.

"Türkiye will continue its efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Black Sea by pursuing approaches and practices aimed at addressing existing risks within the Montreux regime, both through initiatives related to food security and practices such as the Black Sea Mine Action Task Force," the document reads.

The declaration stresses that in addition to achievements in the defence industry, which is one of the core issues of national security, breakthroughs in science and technology, crowned by steps in space, will continue given Türkiye's high potential.