Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Turkey is pursuing strong diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation of violence centered on Iran. He made the remarks on Thursday in Ankara during a ceremony where he presented the Atatürk International Peace Award to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, according to Anadolu Agency.

Erdogan emphasized that diplomacy and dialogue are the safest paths to achieving fair and lasting peace. He acknowledged challenges in the diplomatic process involving the United States, Israel, and Iran but affirmed Turkey’s commitment to continue peace efforts with patience and determination. He also praised Guterres for his neutrality and wisdom since taking office in 2017 and for his contributions to refugee protection, global justice, and shuttle diplomacy amid the Russia-Ukraine war.

Erdogan reiterated that Turkey’s foreign policy is guided by the principle of “peace at home, peace in the world,” inherited from the republic’s founder Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and reaffirmed Turkey’s strong support for the United Nations’ founding values.