Turkish president receives UN secretary-general in Ankara

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday received UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the Presidential Complex in Ankara.

The two posed for photographs after shaking hands, while Guterres greeted the Presidential Guard Regiment Ceremonial Unit by saying: “Hello soldiers.”

Following the welcoming ceremony, Erdogan and Guterres proceeded to their meeting.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Akif Cagatay Kilic, the president’s chief adviser on foreign policy and security, also attended the meeting.

After the meeting, Erdogan will present Guterres with the Ataturk International Peace Award at the Bestepe Nation’s Exhibition Hall.

Erdogan: Türkiye Engaged in Intense Diplomacy to Prevent Escalation of Violence

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Thursday that Türkiye is conducting intensive diplomatic efforts to prevent the escalation of violence centered on Iran, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the safest path to lasting peace.

Erdogan made the remarks in Ankara while presenting the Ataturk International Peace Prize to Antonio Guterres.

The Turkish leader said Ankara will continue supporting diplomatic initiatives despite attempts to undermine prospects for progress in discussions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Erdogan praised Guterres for his leadership since taking office in 2017, highlighting his efforts to protect refugees, promote global justice and support diplomatic initiatives, including those related to the Russia-Ukraine war.

He also commended the UN chief’s stance on humanitarian issues, including Gaza, and his efforts to combat xenophobia and discrimination.

The president said Türkiye continues to base its foreign policy on the principle of “Peace at home, peace in the world,” introduced by the founder of the republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

Erdogan reiterated Ankara’s support for the United Nations and renewed calls for reforms to make the organization more inclusive.

Following the speeches, Erdogan presented the peace prize to Guterres.