“Our vision cannot be limited to 782,000 square kilometres,” declared Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at an awards ceremony in Ankara on Wednesday, highlighting Turkey’s expansive regional aims amid mounting tensions in Northern and Eastern Syria (Rojava).
Speaking at the Turkey’s Scientific and Technological Research Council (TÜBİTAK) and Academy of Sciences (TÜBA) Awards Ceremony, Erdoğan reflected on the ongoing uncertainties in Syria, throwing a spotlight on Turkey’s strategic stance. “Just as a person cannot escape their destiny, so Turkey and the Turkish nation cannot evade their fate or hide from it,” Erdoğan stated.
The remarks come as Turkish forces continue to target areas in North and East Syria controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), whom Ankara accuses of links to Kurdish militants. Erdoğan’s rhetoric signals potential preparations for another military operation in the region. “Turkey is greater than Turkey. Those asking why Turkey is in Libya or Somalia cannot comprehend this vision,” he added.
Erdoğan also criticised domestic sceptics of Turkey’s foreign policy, asserting, “Those who cannot rejoice in Turkey’s successes and instead retreat into conspiracy theories will be left to their bitter world of envy. We will not waste time on them.”
Highlighting Turkey’s ambition to lead in global advancements, he said, “We are progressing steadily towards a great and powerful Turkey that leads rather than lagging behind the era.” He encouraged Turkish academics to inspire the younger generation, declaring, “You are not just contributing to the academic world but shaping Turkey’s 2053 and 2071 visions*.”
Erdoğan’s speech reinforces Turkey’s assertive foreign policy, which has drawn international scrutiny as Ankara maintains a military presence across Syria, Libya and beyond.
* Turkey’s Vision 2053 commemorates the 600th anniversary of the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, and Vision 2071 commemorates the 1,000th anniversary of the Battle of Manzikert, both symbolising Erdoğan’s long-term aspirations for Turkey’s global influence and leadership.
