Addressing the 14th Ambassadors' Conference at the Presidential Complex, Erdoğan said that Türkiye is not seeking tension, but will never bow down to pressures from anyone. He stressed that Türkiye will defend its interests by using all the means of diplomacy and all the elements of hard and soft power.

Erdoğan said that Türkiye's efforts to expand its network of embassies and consulates continue within the framework of the state's priorities. He also said that preparations are underway to overcome the shortage of human resources and improve the physical conditions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"It is our very efforts and moves that lie behind the Turkish diplomacy's rising star at global scale," Erdoğan said. "Türkiye has become a playmaker country whose involvement and contribution are sought and whose attitude is followed in many critical issues that have recently left their marks on international relations."

Erdoğan's remarks come at a time when Türkiye is playing a significant role in a number of regional and global issues, including the war in Ukraine, the Syrian conflict, and the fight against terrorism. Türkiye has also been a vocal critic of the West's sanctions against Russia.

Erdoğan's remarks were welcomed by Turkish diplomats, who said that they reflect the growing importance of Türkiye on the world stage. They said that Erdoğan's vision for a "Century of Türkiye" is becoming a reality, and that Türkiye is now a force to be reckoned with in international relations. (ILKHA)