The Welcome Dinner for the AK Parti’s 8th Grand Congress was hosted at the AK Parti Headquarters in honour of foreign political party representatives, ambassadors based in Ankara, diplomats, and representatives of civil society organisations from abroad who had been invited to the congress.

The event was attended by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, AK Party Vice Chairman and Chairman of Foreign Affairs Zafer Sırakaya, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Burhanettin Duran, several former ministers, and numerous distinguished guests.

Speaking at the event, AK Party Vice Chairman and Chairman of Foreign Affairs Zafer Sırakaya stated that the congress would take place the following day and would serve as a cornerstone of intra-party democracy. He expressed his honour in welcoming the ambassadors as part of this significant occasion.

Sırakaya emphasised that every AK Party congress serves as a “manifesto for the future” and underscored that truly embracing humanity means welcoming every individual, regardless of race, gender, ability, or belief.

Türkiye and the AK Parti continue to play a key role in international diplomacy, serving as a bridge of peace between continents.”

He underscored their leadership in global reconciliation efforts across a vast region, spanning from Somalia to Ukraine and from Gaza to Syria.

“We are reminded every day that global stability can never be taken for granted.”

Sırakaya stated that Türkiye and AK Parti believe true democracy can only thrive when built on the foundations of respect, inclusivity, and understanding, adding:

“Our approach to foreign policy and international diplomacy is rooted in these universal values, promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among nations and communities.

From the conflict between Ukraine and Russia to the ongoing and protracted humanitarian crisis in Gaza, we are reminded daily of the fragility of peace and the reality that global stability can never be taken for granted.

The evolving dynamics of international relations require stronger dialogue, robust partnerships, and a renewed commitment to multilateralism. As ambassadors and representatives of different political parties around the globe, you stand at the forefront of diplomacy, ensuring that it remains a force for peace, understanding, and progress.”

Sırakaya reminded that the Baath regime in Syria had collapsed and emphasised that, throughout this process, Türkiye has steadfastly stood by the Syrian people as both a humanitarian and strategic actor, despite domestic and international pressures.

Sırakaya stated that Türkiye remains committed to preserving Syria’s territorial integrity, eliminating the terrorist organisations YPG, PKK, and Daesh that pose a threat to the region, and ensuring the safe and dignified return of Syrians under temporary protection in Türkiye.

“We believe that a just and sustainable peace can only be achieved through a two-state solution.”

Speaking on Israel’s attacks in Gaza, Sırakaya emphasised, “We believe that a just and sustainable peace can only be established through a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders. This solution must guarantee the coexistence of a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel in peace, security, and mutual recognition.”