ANKARA DISMISSES ‘DISTORTED’ CRITICISM ON SYRIA POLICY AMID RIOTS

Trkiye's foreign policies aim to establish peace and stability in the Middle East, the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday as it hit out at criticism of its policies regarding Syria amid riots in central Kayseri and northern Syria. "It goes without saying that constructive criticism would contribute to foreign policy in a democracy. However, distorting realities and making accusations fueled by ideological bigotry for political gain do not fall into this category," the ministry said in a statement. "The allegations against our policy on the Middle East and Syria lack analysis and basic knowledge of history," it added. Emphasizing that Turkish foreign policy is driven by "national interests," the ministry underscored its commitment to establishing "peace, stability and prosperity" in the region, which it views as historically and culturally significant. The ministry also reiterated Trkiye's "principled stance" since the onset of the Syrian crisis, highlighting its adherence to "international law, humanitarian values and global justice." It stressed that Trkiye has taken "necessary measures to counter threats to its national security" while also remaining a stabilizing force in a volatile region. Trkiye has successfully maintained "peace and stability," enhancing national "well-being and security," said the statement. It added that by bolstering "its defense capabilities," Trkiye has been able to combat terrorism beyond its borders.--agencies Source: National news agency - Lebanon