As we enter 2026, Türkiye advances its foreign policy with confidence, guided by the vision of THE TÜRKİYE CENTURY—a comprehensive framework that reflects our nation’s aspiration for peace, prosperity, and a more just international order. Rooted in strong state traditions shaped by centuries of statecraft and diplomacy inherited from the Seljuk and Ottoman experience, and supported by an adaptive and visionary diplomatic approach, Türkiye continues to pursue an active, principled, and multidimensional foreign policy.
The foundations of the Turkish foreign policy remain firmly anchored in the timeless principle articulated by the founder of our Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: “Peace at home, peace in the world.” This guiding vision continues to shape Türkiye’s approach to regional and global affairs, emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy, and stability. Today, under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Türkiye is moving resolutely toward the goals set by Atatürk, carrying this legacy forward with confidence and determination.
Türkiye plays an active role in the preservation and construction of peace both in its region and across the globe. In this context, Türkiye has intensified its diplomatic and mediation efforts in multiple regions. From its mediation initiatives in the Black Sea region, including efforts that have contributed to global food security, to its humanitarian and diplomatic engagement in conflict-affected areas such as the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Africa, Türkiye remains a responsible and constructive international actor. As one of the world’s leading humanitarian donors, Türkiye continues to combine diplomacy with compassion and concrete action.
Within this global outlook, Türkiye attaches exceptional importance to its relations with the Republic of Korea. The deep-rooted friendship between our two nations, forged as blood brothers during the Korean War, constitutes a unique and enduring bond. The sacrifice and solidarity demonstrated by Turkish soldiers on the Korean Peninsula remain a powerful symbol of shared values and mutual trust. Today, Türkiye continues to support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula by firmly advocating the effective implementation of relevant United Nations resolutions.
Bilateral relations have gained notable momentum in recent months, supported by an increase in reciprocal high-level visits that have injected renewed dynamism into our cooperation. This positive trajectory reflects the strong political will reaffirmed at the highest level, as recently expressed by His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of the Republic of Türkiye during the State visit of His Excellency Lee Jae Myung, President of the Republic of Korea to Türkiye in November 2025.
Türkiye and the Republic of Korea are Strategic Partners, and the Republic of Korea stands as Türkiye’s second-largest trading partner in Asia. Economic ties, defense industry collaboration, and people-to-people exchanges have all benefited from this positive trajectory. In particular, cooperation in strategic sectors such as energy—most notably nuclear energy—and defense industries holds significant promise for the future.
As we look ahead to 2026, Türkiye and the Republic of Korea are well positioned to further deepen their strategic partnership, expand joint projects, and contribute together to regional and global stability. Strong cultural and societal bonds between the two countries remain as the essential cement of this strategic partnership.
On this occasion, I extend my sincere New Year’s wishes to the friendly people of the Republic of Korea and the readers of Aju Press. May 2026 bring peace, health, and prosperity, and may the enduring friendship between our two nations continue to flourish.”
*The author is the Turkish ambassador to South Korea.
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