UN General Assembly
2013

protecting freedom of expression and preserving respect for faiths. The current challenges of development are matters of global concern. Turkey is now runing a comprehensive assistance and direct investment package for the world’s least developed countries. Humanitarian diplomacy is a key objective of Turkish foreign policy. In fact, Turkey became the fourth- largest donor last year. Including the contributions of Turkish non-governmental organizations in the fields of health, education, and capacity-building, Turkey’s humanitarian assistance totals $2 billion per year. Our engagement in Somalia is an exemplary case. We have allocated $300 million so far. Our approach to Africa is one of equal partnership and is best captured in the African proverb which states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.” For Turkey, relations with Africa remain a key priority. Turkey is a candidate for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council for the term 2015-2016. If elected, Turkey will bring an independent voice to the Security Council, one that listens to all and tries