Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan spoke at the Ukraine Peace Conference in Switzerland. Minister Fidan said that as a result of more than two years of occupation of Ukraine, a devastating war is unfolding in central Europe, saying, “According to some estimates, the number of casualties exceeds 500,000, and the war continues. It has already turned into a war of attrition.”
“It’s no longer a war between Russia and Ukraine.”
Minister Fidan said the war could only get worse by the day and the timing of the meeting in question could not be better, adding: “As the war continues, we face two major risks. Geographically, this war could spread beyond Ukraine. We are already witnessing an intensification of the crisis between societies and an increase in polarization at the global level. This war is no longer a war between Russia and Ukraine. Secondly, there is an inherent risk that this catastrophic conventional war will involve weapons of mass destruction. “It is to avert these two risks and to put an end to the war that we have come here today,” he said.
Fidan reminded Russia that there are also conditions set out for peace: “These are important steps and a ray of hope for the beginning,” he said. “But both sides see the other’s steps as an extension of the broader war effort,” he said.
Minister Fidan described the meeting in question as the last exit before all hope is over, saying, “It should also be noted that if Russia, the other party in the conflict, had also been present at the venue, the meeting could have been more result-oriented.”
“President Turkiye is actively participating in diplomatic efforts.”
Minister Fidan expressed Turkey’s belief in the growing need for a comprehensive and inclusive strategy through diplomacy and negotiations, saying, “Turkey is an active participant in diplomatic efforts. Turkey is an active participant in diplomatic efforts.” The March 2022 Istanbul talks and the Black Sea Grain Initiative are signs that diplomacy and negotiations can truly move forward. Mr. Turkiye, as always, is ready to facilitate this process. I would like to emphasize one thing here. What made the Grain Initiative successful and unique was its comprehensive nature. This provided predictability for both sides and ensured the safety of navigation for maritime exports. There is a lot to learn from this example. Previous attempts to implement similar mechanisms yielded mostly positive results. We will spare no effort in the future. Turkiye will continue his steadfast support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence. Our vision for peace is realistic, comprehensive and practical. To this end, we are committed to creating a path forward. “As President Erdogan stated, there are no losers in peace,” he said.
The meeting, which began in Switzerland yesterday, was attended by 57 leaders from 92 countries, but China did not attend the meeting as Russia was not invited.
