Unacceptable Violation of Turkish Territorial Waters by Greek Coast Guard Boats
Minister Yerlikaya Addresses Immigration, Public Safety, and Territorial Violations
Minister Yerlikaya recently appeared on A News live broadcast to discuss various pressing issues that are currently on the agenda. One of the key topics he addressed was the global immigration crisis, highlighting that according to United Nations data, there are 300 million immigrants worldwide, with 123 million of them being forcibly displaced and 47 million under protection.
Yerlikaya emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges that countries targeted for migration face, stating that Turkey is committed to combating irregular migration in a humane and conscientious manner while also prioritizing public security and order. He revealed that there are 4.384 million foreigners with legal residency in Turkey, including 3.092 million Syrians under temporary protection.
The Minister also provided insights into the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of Syrian refugees, noting that over 715,000 Syrians have returned to their homeland since 2016, with 160,236 of them returning during the current cabinet period.
In the wake of the tragic incident involving the martyrdom of police officer Şeyda Yılmaz in Istanbul, Minister Yerlikaya expressed deep sorrow and reassured the public that efforts are underway to prevent such incidents from reoccurring. He highlighted ongoing investigations and measures being taken to address the root causes of such violence.
Additionally, Yerlikaya announced preparations for a new law regarding unlicensed weapons to combat the proliferation of such firearms. The proposed legislation aims to introduce stricter measures to deter individuals from possessing or sharing unlicensed weapons through social media.
Regarding recent territorial water violations by Greece in the Aegean Sea, Minister Yerlikaya disclosed that discussions with Greek officials are underway to address the issue diplomatically. He highlighted the need for compliance with international norms and laws governing territorial waters to prevent further infringements.
As the Turkish government continues to navigate complex challenges related to immigration, public safety, and international relations, Minister Yerlikaya reiterated the importance of fostering dialogue, diplomacy, and collaborative efforts to address these critical issues effectively.
