G20 | Türkiye's Erdoğan blasts Israel over Gaza, praises South Africa’s global role

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan used his press briefing at South Africa’s G20 Leaders’ Summit to commend the host nation for its steadfast commitment to human rights, particularly in its support for Palestine. 

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the summit, Erdoğan praised South Africa’s enduring role in advocating against genocide and injustice worldwide.

“South Africa, having gained independence 30 years ago under the visionary leadership of Nelson Mandela, has not abandoned standing up for human rights all over the world,” Erdoğan remarked, highlighting the country’s continued dedication to these principles.

Reflecting on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Erdoğan underscored the urgency of the ceasefire recently achieved, calling it “crucial for global stability.” 

He stressed that reconstruction and humanitarian assistance must commence without delay, with Türkiye pledging ongoing support for Gaza’s rebuilding efforts.

“We cannot ignore a genocide in Gaza where 60,000 people have lost their lives. The responsibility for this genocide lies with Netanyahu and Israel,” Erdoğan declared emphatically.

“The loss of more than 70,000 children, women, and innocent adults cannot be compensated for, nor can the scars it has left on the minds of future generations be erased.”

Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey’s bold support for Palestine stating, “As Turkey, we have strongly supported the Palestinian cause without fear of anyone, and courageously defended rights and justice.”

The Turkish leader also used the occasion to emphasise Türkiye’s readiness to host the next UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in November 2026, and to extend a formal invitation to South Africa to participate.

Beyond humanitarian and political issues, Erdoğan spoke about Turkey’s commitment to energy transformation, focusing on renewable investments to bolster both energy independence and sustainability, aligning with the G20’s overarching theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”

Touching on global economic matters, he underscored the need for deep-rooted international cooperation, innovative policy tools, and resilient supply chains to revive global trade. 

Erdoğan expressed Ankara’s support for equitable and fair treatment in debt restructuring, particularly for low-income countries, signaling the importance of inclusive economic growth.

In recognition of South Africa’s leadership role at the summit, Erdoğan said the country has once again demonstrated its commitment to global cooperation and solidarity by hosting this essential gathering of world leaders.

“As a gateway to Africa, South Africa is crucial in fostering inclusivity and growth for the continent within the global economy.”

He highlighted the G20's importance in shaping the world saying that, “The G20 remains the most effective platform for addressing the pressing global economic, social, and environmental challenges of our time. Together, we must advance the principles of solidarity, equality, and sustainability to build a better future for all nations.”

Erdoğan also hinted at planned bilateral discussions with other world leaders during the summit, emphasising Turkey’s ongoing role in regional and global affairs.

Addressing concerns beyond the Middle East, Erdoğan noted Turkey’s readiness to respond wherever problems arise, citing Sudan as an example where local partners already seek Turkish engagement.

“Wherever there is a problem, we will, of course, be there. This is the most important aspect of politics,” he said.

The Turkish president’s messages at the Johannesburg summit reaffirm Turkey’s active engagement on issues ranging from humanitarian crises to climate change and global economic reform - while praising South Africa’s critical and principled leadership on the world stage.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

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