Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkish President and Chairperson of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), delivered a speech at the İstanbul Provincial Congress of the AKP, presenting his “electoral manifest” for the elections on June 24. However, Erdoğan’s speech included more of his positioning in current politics than his electoral promises, and mainly addressed the “outer world” rather than Turkish people.
With his “inclusivist” manner and messages that implied they could pass certain regulations, Erdoğan’s primary concern seemed to assure capitalists that he is still willing to be their most reliable partner who can meet the expectations.
Erdoğan said: “Turkey will be a partner of the new international environment, as long as we preserve our stability. This is why we are bringing the presidential system.” Stating that he is free of any ambiguities in such an ambiguous political and economic environment, Erdoğan hinted a promise of “commitment” to imperialism.
His most powerful message for capitalists both in and out of the country was: “Despite the protectionist economy politics in the world, Turkey’s outward structure of trade will persist.” This way, Erdoğan underlines Turkey’s importance both as a market and an enabling manufacture base.
Erdoğan also mentioned women and the youth. He stated that he always “believed that strengthening women was strengthening the country,” while claiming that they would not “command or stereotype” the youth, and create more space for them.
It was seen that Erdoğan chose to adopt a more “cautious” and “inclusivist” discourse, knowing that he is competing with rivals who are known for their fiery rhetoric. His motto “We are Turkey” is also in compliance with his apparent strategy for the elections.
