Istanbul – President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the significance of the upcoming second round of presidential elections in Turkey, urging citizens to exercise their voting rights on Sunday.

Speaking at a women’s forum hosted by the ruling Justice and Development Party, President Erdogan highlighted the profound impact this decision would have on the country’s future and the well-being of its children.

“Next Sunday, we will head to the polls once again, possibly making one of the most consequential choices of our lives,”
President Erdogan stated.

“We are faced with a crucial decision that will shape not only our destinies but also those of our country and our children.”

Following the initial round of elections on May 14, Turkey witnessed President Erdogan, representing the “People’s Alliance,” competing against Kamal Kılıçdaroğlu, the leader of the Republican People’s Party and candidate of the “Nation’s Alliance,” as well as Sinan Ogan from the “Ata Alliance.”

As no candidate received more than 50 percent of the vote, a second round of presidential elections has been scheduled between Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu, set to take place on May 28.

During his speech, President Erdogan highlighted his four-decade-long political career and expressed his commitment to collaboration with women in public affairs.

He acknowledged women’s crucial support, stating, “We have always overcome obstacles and weathered attacks thanks to the unwavering support of women.”

President Erdogan emphasized the instrumental role of women in safeguarding Turkish democracy, referencing the events of February 28, 1997, when women played a vital part in defending the nation.

Furthermore, he commended women for their resilience and courage during the attempted coup on July 15, 2016, where they fearlessly confronted tanks and planes.

In addition, Turkish women are actively protesting the “PKK” terrorist organization in Diyarbakir province, demanding the return of their children abducted by the group.

Turning his attention to his political opponent, President Erdogan criticized the statements made by Kamal Kilicdaroglu, specifically those targeting asylum seekers in Turkey.

He vehemently rejected engaging in hate speech, asserting that Kilicdaroglu’s rhetoric was reminiscent of the severity witnessed during the “Nazi era.”

President Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s collaboration with Qatar in establishing homes within Syria to provide shelter for one million people.

He stressed that the influx of Syrian refugees into Turkey resulted from their desire to escape the devastating war, underscoring that Turkey could have faced a similar situation.

Describing Kılıçdaroğlu’s mindset and its supporters as a “terrorist mentality,” he contrasted their approach with Turkey’s commitment to ensuring the voluntary and secure return of asylum seekers while preserving their dignity.

President Erdogan disclosed that Turkey had already facilitated the return of 554,000 asylum seekers to areas in northern Syria that had been cleared of terrorist organizations.

In the future, the Turkish government aims to encourage further returns through compassionate policies that align with the nation’s rich history, culture, and beliefs.

Drawing attention to other countries, President Erdogan mentioned that both Germany and the United States welcome Syrian immigrants and the Ahiska Turks.

However, he asked, “Are we, not a normal country capable of opening our doors to immigrants and refugees, just like America, Germany, and France?”

With the upcoming second round of elections, Turkish citizens face a pivotal moment in determining their nation’s future.

President Erdogan has urged voters to consider the significance of their decision, emphasizing the importance of shaping a prosperous and inclusive society for generations to come.