Meet Ukrainian And Russian Delegations, President Erdogan: Prolonged Conflict Is Not For Anyone

JAKARTA - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warmly welcomed the Ukrainian and Russian delegations, in the peace talks held in Istanbul today, hoping that the best results could be achieved.

In his remarks to the two delegations, President Erdogan expressed his respect for being able to host peace talks between the two countries at a critical time, as part of efforts to restore peace.

"I hope that the talks will produce favorable results for both countries, the region, and all of humanity. The negotiation process, which you carried out in line with the direction of your leaders, has raised hopes for peace and excited the whole world. In this spirit, we wholeheartedly heart supports the talks", he said, citing the website of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkiye on March 29.

Highlighting the great efforts made by the delegates for the sake of their country, President Erdogan congratulated the Russian and Ukrainian delegations.

On the occasion, President Erdogan said that Turkey as a neighbor and friend is sad because the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has entered its fifth week.

"Since the day the crisis broke out, we have made sincere efforts at all levels to prevent an escalation. We have tried to do what our neighborly relations, friendships, and connections require", he said.

"I personally have carried out intensive diplomacy with many of my colleagues, in particular your president. My foreign minister, defense minister, and senior adviser Mr. Kalın have been in constant contact with their colleagues", President Erdogan said.

"Across all the international platforms where we have said, we have demonstrated a fair approach that observes and protects the rights and interests of both parties. As a country witnessing various sufferings on its territory, we have tried to prevent a similar picture in the north of the Black Sea", he said.

Moreover, President Erdogan underlined, Turkey has never and will never hesitate to take responsibility for peace and stability in the region and beyond.

"We believe in a just peace no one will lose. Prolonged conflict is not in anyone's interest. Every person who dies, every building destroyed, every resource blown up or buried in soil that should be used for prosperity is a value that has been taken from our future together", said President Erdogan.

Turkey, which is a NATO member, shares maritime borders with Ukraine and Russia on the Black Sea, has good relations with both, and has offered to mediate in the conflict. While calling the Moscow invasion unacceptable, Ankara also opposes Western sanctions.