Bishkek: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the Makkah Mutual Defense Pact signed by Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan would make an important contribution to peace and stability in the region and worldwide.
According to Qatar News Agency, Erdogan spoke at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, highlighting that the pact is based on regional ownership and collective deterrence, which would help advance peace and stability. He also remarked on the Middle East's ongoing challenges, attributing the turmoil to Israel's aggressive policies, and pointed to the significant loss of life in Lebanon and Gaza due to Israeli attacks.
Erdogan also addressed Turkiye's relationship with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, emphasizing his country's commitment to expanding cooperation with the organization across various fields. He underscored the organization's significance, noting that it represents 3.5 billion people and a combined GDP of USD 35 trillion, which positions it as a crucial component of a multipolar world order.
Furthermore, Erdogan highlighted the organization's contributions to peace and stability, as well as its role in establishing secure transport corridors and ensuring energy supplies.