20.04.2026 23:10
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan answered the question "Is geography destiny?" in a different way at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. Responding to the question using a map he took out of his bag, Fidan marked Turkey's red lines one by one. Touching on many critical issues, from the security of trade routes in the region to sovereignty rights, Fidan stated that Turkey would never compromise on its national interests by showing specific areas on the map.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) this year not only hosted diplomatic contacts but also a "strategy lesson" that will not be forgotten. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan responded to the question "Is geography destiny?" with a rare method at the diplomacy table.
Minister Fidan, immediately after the question, spread out a map he took from his bag on the table, explaining Turkey's geopolitical position and regional vision with concrete data.
"THIS IS THE HEART OF TRADE ROUTES"
Pointing out the strategic points on the map one by one, Minister Fidan described the basin Turkey is in with the following words:
"Look, this region is particularly positioned at the heart of trade routes. The strategy we advocate here is not only regional but also considers a global balance. Ensuring the security of the line passing through here means ensuring the economic stability of this entire basin."
SUSTAINABLE DIALOGUE AND STRUGGLE FOR RIGHTS
Minister Fidan emphasized that Turkey's presence in the region is interpreted differently by some circles, stating that the priority is always "peaceful resolution and sustainable dialogue." He noted that the effective use of the corridor would also increase the welfare share of neighboring countries and underscored the determination regarding international law.
"OUR SOVEREIGNTY RIGHTS ARE NOT OPEN TO DISCUSSION"
In response to the host's question regarding international law and the attitudes of allies, Fidan gave a clear answer by pointing to the red areas on the map:
"We are always respectful of international law. However, protecting our own rights and interests is also our most natural right. The red areas you see on the map are actually regions where our sovereignty rights are not open to discussion. We cannot make any concessions on this matter."
This revelation by Minister Fidan, as he took out the map from his bag, became one of the most talked-about moments of the forum.