Erdogan Launches Scathing Attack on Racists in Turkey
Watan – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has firmly stated that his government will not tolerate the spread of racism and xenophobia, and will take necessary measures to address the issue of irregular migration.
In a speech delivered on Thursday, during an event attended by local officials at the Turkish Presidential Complex in Ankara, Erdogan emphasized that the stain of colonialism, racism, and fascism has never been present in any phase of Turkish history. He stressed that his government will not allow any disruption to these noble qualities.
Erdogan expressed confidence that the Turkish people, known for their compassion, dignity, and tolerance, will not accept such divisive attempts. He added that the Turkish state will take all necessary measures against those who act outside the law and will work to quell this discord before it escalates.
The Turkish President also highlighted the efforts made throughout history to pit the people against each other based on race, sect, inclination, ideology, and other divisions, noting that such attempts have always failed. He criticized certain local politicians for supporting these divisive attempts, which are led and fueled by circles hostile to Turkey, especially members of the Gulen organization and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) abroad.
Erdogan concluded by emphasizing his government’s commitment to ensuring the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of refugees who were welcomed into Turkey for humanitarian reasons.