On 30 October 2026, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a speech at the 13th Turkish Diaspora (TDT) Summit, emphasizing the unity of the Turkish diaspora and regional cooperation. Erdoğan stated that there is no place for division in the Turkish world and highlighted the theme 'Turkish Century: Unity in Language, Thought, and Action.' He congratulated Azerbaijan for taking over the presidency and expressed support for the recognition of an independent Palestinian state, calling for renewed diplomatic engagement and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Turkey assumed the presidency of the Turkish Diaspora, positioning itself at the center of a network that spans continents and cultures. Erdoğan's speech underscored the importance of unity, stating that the diaspora is “a family photo that has no place for division.” The presidency signals Turkey's intent to coordinate policies, cultural initiatives, and humanitarian efforts for Turks living abroad.
Erdoğan congratulated Azerbaijan for taking the chair of the TDT presidency, a move that reflects the deep ties between the two Turkic nations. The Turkish president praised Azerbaijan's efforts, noting that the partnership would strengthen the “Turkish Century” vision shared by both countries.
Erdoğan called for support in humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, highlighting its importance for the international community.
While the summit's focus was unity, Erdoğan also used the platform to address the status of Palestine. He reiterated Turkey's support for the recognition of an independent Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for renewed diplomatic engagement and humanitarian aid to Gaza. Erdoğan called for support in humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, highlighting its importance for the international community.
The president's address was a plea for calm, urging the Turkish world to prioritize diplomacy over military tension. He framed conflict as a threat to the unity he championed, positioning Turkey as a mediator rather than a belligerent, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing force in the region.
Central to the summit's narrative was the theme “Turkish Century: Unity in Language, Thought, and Action.” Erdoğan used this slogan to weave together cultural, intellectual, and political strands that bind the Turkish diaspora. He highlighted the shared language and collective memory that serve as a foundation for cooperation. The theme also hinted at a future where Turkish influence extends beyond borders, fostering a sense of shared destiny among Turks worldwide.
As the summit drew to a close, the message was clear: the Turkish world is a family that must stand together. Erdoğan's declaration that “Ayrılığa yer yok” – there is no place for division – was more than rhetoric; it was a call to action for every Turkish community, whether in Istanbul or Northern Cyprus. The day's events left a lasting impression: a united diaspora, a supportive presidency, and a renewed commitment to peace and cooperation in a region that has long been fraught with tension.