Turkish officials and policymakers warned Friday that climate change, water scarcity and food security are emerging as major national security challenges, calling for stronger cooperation and long-term planning to address growing environmental risks.
The remarks came during the Erciyes Summit, held under the theme “Climate, Water, Food and Security,” was organized at the Sabancı Cultural Center by the Büyük Sanat Foundation, Erciyes University, the Kayseri Governorship, the Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality and the Orta Anadolu Development Agency (ORAN).
Speaking at the opening session, Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum said climate change is no longer solely an environmental issue but a challenge affecting economies, societies and national stability.
“Drought has become a global issue,” Kurum said, noting that declining water resources are affecting agricultural productivity, drinking water security and industrial output.
He warned that pressure on water resources directly affects food production and could ultimately create broader security concerns.
