PRIME MINISTER ERDOGAN ADRESSED THE WORLD IN THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Within the framework of his US visit, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed the United Nations 66th General Assembly.

Prime Minister Erdogan held a press conference at Esenboga Airport on his return to Ankara and said: “Actually, more than 100 presidents and prime ministers who were in New York on the occasion of the General Assembly had the chance to express their opinions and exchange their views on various topics which occupy the agenda throughout the world. Thus, several issues such as the establishment of a new economical order in the Mediterranean Basin and the Middle East in this transition period; concerns about the nuclear safety following the nuclear leak in Japan; and the humanitarian tragedy in the Horn of Africa were discussed at the highest level. I had the opportunity to talk about our arguments, views, policies and expectations in the meetings I have attended.”

Erdogan indicated that by addressing the UN General Assembly, he has reemphasized the priorities of Turkey’s foreign affairs. Erdogan continued as follows: “In addition to the Cyprus issue, I pointed out our efforts in several fields such as the humanitarian tragedy in Somalia; the transition process in the Middle East and Northern Africa; provision of support to the underdeveloped countries and the fight against terrorism. I stated that neither Israel, nor any other country could judge itself before the international law and the inhuman blockade on Gaza had to be lifted.”

Stating that he had the opportunity to meet a number of leaders including the US president Barack Obama and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Erdogan reminded that he held a meeting with the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad the previous day.  Erdogan said that in the meetings they have exchanged views both on bilateral relations and regional issues. Erdogan also indicated that in the meetings they have realized that their views, particularly on global matters, were common.

Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis was a member of the delegation which accompanied Prime Minister Erdogan in his USA visit.

Source: AA