Strong message from the homeland to Western Thrace: Minister Fidan emphasizes “determination” on minority rights

Türkiye’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hakan Fidan, delivered a powerful message regarding the rights of the Western Thrace Turkish Minority during his address at the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM). Speaking during the 2026 budget discussions, Fidan reaffirmed Ankara’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of the minority.

“We Are the Guardians of Your Rights”

A significant portion of Fidan’s speech focused on relations with Greece and the situation of the Western Thrace Turks. He stressed that Turkey continues its diplomatic initiatives to safeguard the rights of the minority as outlined in international treaties, emphasizing that Ankara’s sensitivity on this issue remains at the highest level.

Key points from Fidan’s remarks regarding Western Thrace include:

“We continue our initiatives to protect the rights of the Western Thrace Turkish minority. While upholding the principle of equitable sharing in the Eastern Mediterranean, we resolutely take steps to protect our country’s rights and interests.”

Dialogue Open, No Compromise on Rights

Addressing relations with Greece, Fidan highlighted Türkiye’s intention to maintain a constructive approach toward developing a positive agenda with Athens. He underlined Ankara’s desire to see the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean transformed from areas of tension into regions of stability and prosperity.

He noted the following principles:

• Constructive dialogue: Advocating dialogue-based solutions to all Aegean disputes
• Equitable sharing: Maintaining commitment to fair distribution principles in the Eastern Mediterranean
• Firm stance: Ensuring Turkey’s rights and national interests are protected with determination

Priority: The Status of the TRNC

Minister Fidan also reiterated that one of Turkey’s top priorities is ensuring that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) attains the status it deserves in the international community. He emphasized Ankara’s continued support for kin communities that form integral parts of the Turkic world.

The firm stance expressed by Minister Fidan was welcomed positively by the Western Thrace Turkish Minority.