Erdogan calls for UN-backed Kashmir solution at UNGA, urges peace for ‘our sisters and brothers’

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reignited global attention on the Kashmir issue during his address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, urging India and Pakistan to resolve the decades-old dispute through dialogue and in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions. His remarks, delivered on September 23, 2025, have sparked diplomatic ripples across South Asia and renewed debate over international involvement in regional conflicts.

“We are pleased with the ceasefire achieved following the tensions last April between Pakistan and India, which had escalated into a conflict. The issue of Kashmir should be resolved on the basis of the resolutions of the UN, for the best of our sisters and brothers in Kashmir, through dialogue,” Erdogan said, reiterating Ankara’s long-standing position on the matter.

This marks the sixth time in seven years that Erdogan has raised Kashmir at the UNGA, framing Turkey’s stance as one of solidarity with Pakistan and the Kashmiri people. His comments come months after India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians dead and triggered a four-day military escalation with Pakistan.

Kashmir Issue at UNGA – Erdogan’s Annual Mentions

India has consistently rejected foreign commentary on Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the region is an integral part of the country and that any resolution must be bilateral. New Delhi is expected to issue a formal response to Erdogan’s latest remarks, reiterating its position on non-interference and respect for sovereignty.

Erdogan’s speech also touched on broader South Asian dynamics, praising the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and calling for enhanced cooperation on counter-terrorism. “In South Asia, we consider the preservation of peace and stability to be of utmost importance,” he said.

South Asia – Erdogan’s UNGA Remarks Overview

Erdogan’s comments have drawn mixed reactions from global observers. While Pakistan welcomed the statement as a reaffirmation of international support, Indian analysts criticized it as unnecessary interference. Turkish media framed the speech as a continuation of Ankara’s moral diplomacy, while Western outlets noted the geopolitical undertones of Erdogan’s positioning.

Global Reactions – Erdogan’s Kashmir Statement

The timing of Erdogan’s remarks is significant, coming ahead of key elections in Pakistan and amid growing unrest in parts of Kashmir. Analysts suggest that Turkey’s vocal support may be aimed at strengthening its strategic ties with Islamabad, especially in defence and trade.

India-Turkey relations have seen fluctuations in recent years, with New Delhi expressing concern over Ankara’s repeated references to Kashmir. Bilateral trade remains robust, but diplomatic tensions have occasionally surfaced due to divergent geopolitical stances.

India-Turkey Relations – Recent Developments

Erdogan’s speech also included strong criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “genocide” and calling for immediate recognition of Palestine. His dual focus on Kashmir and Gaza reflects Turkey’s broader foreign policy narrative of advocating for Muslim-majority regions facing conflict.

Social media platforms have seen a surge in engagement around Erdogan’s UNGA address, with hashtags like #ErdoganUNGA, #KashmirResolution, and #UNBackedDialogue trending across South Asia and the Middle East.

Public Sentiment – Erdogan’s UNGA Kashmir Remarks

As the UNGA continues, Erdogan’s remarks have once again placed Kashmir on the global diplomatic radar. Whether his call for a UN-backed solution gains traction remains uncertain, but it has undeniably stirred fresh debate on the international stage.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available speeches, diplomatic commentary, and verified news reports. It does not constitute political endorsement or criticism. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.