COLOMBO : “ Tonight, I had a speech prepared by my dedicated staff, carefully written, utterly edited and probably long enough to rival a short story.
Nevertheless, since it is already late, and I know some of you are secretly thinking about food, I will spare you the full manuscript and share just a few heartfelt thoughts.
As we gather here to commemorate the founding and enduring spirit of the Republic of Türkiye, we are reminded that a celebration of this scale is never the work of one person alone.
It is the result of shared vision, generous partnerships, and the relentless dedication of a remarkable team.
First and foremost, I would like to thank to the entire team of my Embassy.
Behind the elegance of an evening like this lies weeks of quiet, tireless, and meticulous labor.
They handled every challenge, from preparing the lists and logistics to guest relations, the countless details with professionalism.
They did not just organize an event; they represented our homeland, our flag, and our values with utmost dignity.
I also wish to acknowledge our esteemed sponsors and corporate partners.
Bringing the warmth of Turkish hospitality and friendship to Sri Lanka would not be possible without their invaluable support.
They have stood by us as true partners in celebration, investing in moments that bring our two nations closer together.
The generosity of Turkish Airlines, Turkish Cargo, Anemon Hotels, Samsun Olgunlaşma Institute by Ministry of National Education of the Republic of Türkiye, Mahmood Tea by Altunkaya Group, Ala Coffee by Beta Gıda, Lanka Ballooning by Uluer Group, Yanık Ülke Winery, Eriş Helva from Eskişehir, Akdeniz Lokum from Antalya and Aydın Özü Consultants reflect their belief in strengthening bonds of friendship and cooperation across nations.
Likewise, the support of Aitkens Spence Tourism, Barista Coffee Lanka by Akbar Group, Shangri-La Hotels, Limak by Kamil, and Brian Kerkoven Academy demonstrates their belief in building bridges and goodwill between Türkiye and Sri Lanka.
On this proud occasion, I also express my gratitude to the members of the media who bring our stories to the public.
Their news, articles, videos, and supplements on Türkiye captured the essence of our bilateral relations.
In doing so, they honored the depth of our friendship and the vibrancy of our partnership.
They translated the spirit of October 29th into words and images that reached countless households, readers, and viewers.
And I must say, they even managed to make me look taller and thinner in the photographs, true professionals indeed.
I extend my profound gratitude and deepest regards to the politicians as well as the civil and military bureaucrats of Sri Lanka.
We deeply appreciate the unwavering support and cooperation of them in strengthening our bilateral ties across diplomatic, economic, and defense areas.
The enduring bond between Türkiye and Sri Lanka is anchored in mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for global peace and prosperity.
Our partnership is not only institutional but also deeply human, from the solidarity shown during times of natural disaster to the growing exchanges in education, culture, and tourism.
We take pride in the fact that Türkiye and Sri Lanka, although geographically distant, are united by the spirit of friendship that transcends borders.
This friendship is reflected in our expanding trade relations, in the connectivity built by Turkish Airlines, and in the cultural initiatives that bring our peoples closer.
I am sincerely grateful for the presence of my esteemed colleagues from the diplomatic corps and representatives of international organizations.
Their steadfast dedication to fostering dialogue, partnership, and mutual respect enriches our collective endeavors and lends true meaning to the work we pursue together.
To our cherished friends, thank you for standing with us.
Your personal warmth, hospitality, and enduring goodwill make Colombo truly feel like a home away from home for myself and the entire Embassy team.
Before I conclude, please allow me a personal moment of reflection.
Diplomacy is a noble calling, but it is never walked alone, behind every posting and every milestone stands an anchor of love and patience.
I thank my dear wife Leyla, my constant companion, my grace under pressure, and my unyielding encouragement through every transition and relocation.
She has transformed every house we have lived in into a warm home, represented our flag with elegance, and carried the weight of this journey with a quiet strength.
And to my son, Togan, who has grown up watching the world map change, adapting to new schools and new countries with remarkable resilience.
As we celebrate our national anniversary under the legacy of our founder, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, we look forward to the future with great optimism.
Guided by the vision and leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Türkiye continues to strengthen its regional and global partnerships.
We are confident that our ties with Sri Lanka will flourish in this spirit of friendship and mutual respect.
To all our distinguished guests sharing this evening with us, thank you for your presence, support, and friendship.
And thank you very much for your patience, because as every diplomat knows, patience is the most important diplomatic skill, right after knowing where the food and drinks are served.
Please enjoy the rest of this evening and take with your wonderful memories.”
