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Fidan: 'We Are Not Talking About an Ottoman Empire - Iran Wants Negotiation'

Published January 26, 2026, 06:11
Fidan: 'We Are Not Talking About an Ottoman Empire - Iran Wants Negotiation'

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, in an interview with Sky News Arabic, categorically rejected any “Ottoman” ambitions for Turkey, emphasizing that the country is seeking strategic partnerships between sovereign states to address common challenges. He stressed that the era of a major power solving the problems of others is over. Fidan warned the United States to avoid military intervention in Iran, as this could lead to a prolonged crisis, like in Venezuela. He emphasized that for negotiations to be effective, Iran must feel that it is maintaining its “face” and not being humiliated, in order to prevent further escalation. Commenting on relations with the European Union, Fidan was highly critical, arguing that Turkey would have strengthened the resilience of the EU and perhaps prevented Brexit if it had become a member. He believes that the EU has become a supranational but not a supercultural institution, hindering a more substantial integration between member states and Turkey. The interview by Fidan outlines Turkey's approach to critical geopolitical issues, emphasizing cooperation, avoiding escalation, and criticizing the EU for its policies.