Saudi Gazette

JEDDAH — Turkish expatriates in the Kingdom marked the 94th anniversary of the proclamation of their republic with gusto and patriotic fervor.

The Turkish Consulate here celebrated the event at the residence of Consul General Dr. Akif Menevse on Sunday.

Consul General Menevse and his wife, Ambassador Salih Mutlu Sen, permanent representative to the OIC and his wife, received Ambassador Jamal Balkhyor, director general of the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah branch, consul generals and ambassadors of Arab, Islamic and foreign countries, many prominent Saudi figures, Turkish community members in Jeddah and media representatives.

“Tonight we are celebrating our Republic Day with enthusiasm. With full gratitude and mercy we remember the founder of our republic Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country at both the war of Independence and 15 July.” Menevse said

“The Republic of Turkey has been crowned with a democratic system. The Turkish nation is always thankful and grateful to the founders and supporters of our republic and our democracy. Turkey occupies a crucial place between the glorious past and bright future of the Turkish nation which is determined to maintain the continuity of the republic forever.


“We were witness to the latest example of this during the treacherous failed coup attempt of July 15. When the Turkish people defended their republic, their state, their future and independence with the flag in their hands and faith in their hearts.

“We also support the goal of Vision 2030 of our friendly and brotherly country Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is moving forward confidently and steadily toward its 2030 targets. We are very pleased with this situation.”

Menevse said Turkey was very pleased with the progress and development of relations with Saudi Arabia. "In addition, a large number of mutual high-level visits have been made between the two countries in recent years. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last visited Saudi Arabia in July this year. On the other hand, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense, and a large number of Saudi ministers visited my country," Menevse said

Menevse expanded deep gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Crown Prince, Ministry of Haj, Ministry of Health and all other government offices for all the support given to facilitate the work of the consulate and to all those who are involved in the organization of the very successful season of Haj.

Menevse also emphasized that Turkey will never forget the Saudi support to the country after the treacherous failed coup attempt on July 15th.

Following his speech, Menevse, Mutlu Sen and other consuls general cut the celebration cake. Guests had the opportunity to enjoy Turkish folk songs presented by Turkish community band.