Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler conducted a comprehensive series of visits and engagements in the Maltepe district of Istanbul as part of the "Turkey Century Meetings" (Türkiye Yüzyılı Buluşmaları). During his visit, the Minister provided a detailed evaluation of Turkey’s evolving role in global security, the significant strides made in the domestic defense industry, and the ongoing commitment to national unity and regional stability. The program, which brought together local party members, shopkeepers, and the families of martyrs, served as a platform for the Minister to articulate Turkey’s strategic roadmap for the coming century.
The visit commenced at the AK Party Maltepe District Headquarters, where Minister Güler was greeted by a large delegation of party members and local representatives. The atmosphere was one of formal solemnity, beginning with a moment of silence in honor of those who have sacrificed their lives for the nation, followed by the singing of the Turkish National Anthem. This setting provided the backdrop for Güler to address the historical and contemporary significance of the district and the nation at large.
Historical Significance of Maltepe and Naval Commemorations
In his opening remarks, Minister Güler took the opportunity to celebrate two significant milestones in Turkish maritime history: the 488th anniversary of the Preveza Naval Victory and Naval Forces Day. He paid tribute to the legacy of the Turkish Navy, which has historically secured the nation’s interests across the "Blue Homeland." The Minister highlighted that the spirit of Preveza—a victory that established Ottoman naval supremacy in the Mediterranean—continues to inspire the modern Turkish Naval Forces as they protect the country’s maritime rights and interests today.
Expanding on the local context, Güler spoke at length about the deep-rooted history and strategic importance of Maltepe. He noted that the district has historically been one of the most prominent locations on the Anatolian side of Istanbul. During the Ottoman era, Maltepe served as a vital logistics hub and a staging ground for the imperial army. Its importance did not wane with the transition to the modern era; during the years of the National Struggle (Milli Mücadele), Maltepe played a critical role as a transit point for those moving from occupied Istanbul to Anatolia to join the resistance.
Minister Güler emphasized that Maltepe’s development continued through the Republican era, evolving into a modern urban center that balances its historical identity with its role in Istanbul’s social and economic life. He remarked that the district’s unique location, nestled along the coast and deeply integrated with the sea, has allowed it to secure a distinctive place in the social fabric of the city, offering unique opportunities for both its residents and the broader metropolitan population.
Navigating a Complex Global Security Landscape
Turning his attention to the international stage, Minister Güler offered a sobering assessment of the current global security environment. He stated that the world is passing through an exceptionally critical period where security balances are being fundamentally reshaped. According to the Minister, risks and threats in the region are becoming increasingly diverse and complex, necessitating a robust and proactive national defense strategy.
Güler pointed out that the political and economic uncertainties, conflicts, and outright wars occurring in Turkey’s immediate geography serve as a stark reminder of the necessity of a strong state structure. He argued that these challenges underscore the vital importance of national unity, solidarity, and, most importantly, determined and stable leadership. In such a volatile era, Güler asserted that Turkey has managed to preserve its own peace and security while simultaneously becoming a pivotal actor in the international security architecture.
Under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Güler noted, Turkey has adopted a constructive stance in resolving international disputes. This is evidenced by the intense diplomatic traffic Turkey maintains on the world stage. Whether through the United Nations or NATO, Turkey’s multi-faceted approach aims to contribute to crisis resolution, peace, justice, and stability. The Minister emphasized that Turkey is no longer a country that merely reacts to the decisions of others regarding its own security; rather, it is a nation that identifies its own needs, develops its own technologies, and executes its own strategic maneuvers.
The Pillars of Turkish Defense: Domestic Industry and the Armed Forces
A central theme of Minister Güler’s address was the symbiotic relationship between a strong diplomatic presence and a credible military deterrent. He argued that Turkey’s strength at the negotiating table is directly supported by its effectiveness and deterrence on the ground. This deterrence, he explained, is fueled by the rapid transformation of the Turkish defense industry.
"The Turkish Armed Forces, the representative of sacrifice and heroism, is one of our country’s most important sources of power and pride," Güler stated. He praised the military’s high state of readiness, its experienced and qualified personnel, and its superior operational capability in tasks ranging from border security to the fight against terrorism. He noted that the TAF successfully fulfills all missions, including the protection of rights in the "Blue Homeland" and "Sky Homeland," as well as participating in international peacekeeping missions.
The Minister credited the visionary leadership and encouragement of President Erdoğan for the "great transformation" in the defense sector. By prioritizing domestic and national production, Turkey has significantly reduced its foreign dependency. Güler highlighted the development of national ships, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), missile and air defense systems, and various land, sea, and air platforms. This technological independence, he argued, provides Turkey with strategic freedom of movement and ensures that the nation can meet its security requirements with modern, cutting-edge systems developed by Turkish engineers.
"TURKISH ARMED FORCES ARE ONE OF OUR COUNTRY’S MOST IMPORTANT SOURCES OF POWER AND PRIDE"
The Minister reiterated that the heroic Turkish Armed Forces continue to perform their duties with great dedication both within the borders and in cross-border operations. He emphasized that the TAF is not only a shield against threats but also a source of national morale. The integration of domestic technology into the military’s operational framework has moved the TAF’s capabilities to an even higher level, ensuring that Turkey remains a formidable force in a region fraught with instability.
Güler also touched upon the "Terror-Free Turkey" process. He recalled that Turkey has been engaged in a persistent struggle against terrorism for over 40 years. Thanks to the sacrifices of the "Mehmetçik" (Turkish soldiers), security forces, and martyrs, significant gains have been made. The current goal, under the "Turkey Century" vision, is to make these gains permanent and completely remove the shadow of terrorism and violence from the national agenda.
The Minister explained that a Turkey entirely purged of terrorism would be able to redirect its vast resources more effectively toward production, technology, education, and investment. He linked security directly to the welfare of the citizens, stating that a secure environment is the prerequisite for rapid urban development and a more prosperous future for all provinces and districts. By fortifying internal unity and securing its borders, Turkey intends to further enhance its influence on the international stage.
A Commitment to Local Service and Community Engagement
Following his speech at the district headquarters, Minister Güler shifted his focus to the local community in Maltepe. He walked to Maltepe Square, where he spent time visiting local shopkeepers and engaging in candid conversations with citizens. These interactions emphasized the "service and works politics" (eser ve hizmet siyaseti) that the Minister described as the hallmark of the current administration.
During his walkabout, Güler listened to the concerns and expectations of the local tradesmen. He noted that Maltepe has benefited significantly from the developmental leaps taken over the last two decades, acquiring a modern identity that matches its historical importance. He encouraged those in attendance to maintain a close dialogue with the public, noting that local representatives and party members serve as a vital bridge between the citizens and the state. He warned against the dangers of disinformation and emphasized that maintaining a climate of unity and brotherhood is essential for the nation’s progress.
"We will continue to work for the future of our country and our Maltepe, without giving opportunity to sedition, seeds of discord, or polarization," Güler told the crowd. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to placing the unity of the nation above all else.
The Minister’s visit concluded on a poignant note as he visited the home of Martyr Er Alaettin Buluç’s family. Alaettin Buluç was martyred in 1995 during a clash with terrorists in the Lice district of Diyarbakır. Güler spent time with the family, expressing the nation’s enduring gratitude for their sacrifice. During the visit, he presented a commemorative plaque to the family, symbolizing the state’s commitment to never forgetting the heroes who have fallen in the line of duty.
The visit to Maltepe served as a comprehensive summary of the government’s broader "Turkey Century" vision—a blend of historical reverence, modern military might, diplomatic agility, and a deep-seated commitment to the welfare and unity of the Turkish people. As the Minister departed, his message remained clear: Turkey is prepared to face the challenges of a new era with a domestic defense industry that is stronger than ever and a national spirit that remains unbroken.
