Türkiye at 100: Reflecting on the progress of a century and looking ahead

The significance of Turkey's successful transformation and emergence as a beacon of stability and prosperity is perhaps more visible than ever today, as our entire region continues to struggle with unstable situations, wars, conflicts and humanitarian crises. Türkiye is a significant key player in regional and international affairs by responding to global challenges, promoting peace and stability, and promoting dialogue and cooperation. driven by the enduring goal of achieving "Peace at Home, Peace in the World," as Atatürk wisely said.

Foreign policy

As the easternmost country in Europe and the westernmost country in Asia, Türkiye aims to strengthen existing strategic relationships and establish new ones. Turkey has a strategic partnership with the United States as a NATO ally, and considers the transatlantic connection vital to Europe's security and prosperity. As an active member, Türkiye essentially promotes the principle of "indivisibility of security" within NATO. As such, we are among the top 5 contributors to NATO operations and the top 8 contributors to the alliance's budget. Due to its significant geopolitical location, Türkiye is often exposed to increased unpredictability, crises and conflicts that endanger peace and stability, such as the war in Ukraine, yet it continues to persistently and consistently work and mediate to end the war. establishing peace.

Similarly, Türkiye's efforts will be extended to another nearby region to create lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East and to develop this geographical area into a stable and prosperous region. In this context, Türkiye has not only developed bilateral relations in the region, but also taken initiatives to create an atmosphere that promotes regional cooperation. Regarding the recent situation in the Gaza Strip, Türkiye is trying to contribute to everything to alleviate the situation.

Türkiye considers the issue of Israel and Palestine at this critical stage as a matter of everyone's conscience. Thus, the problem can only be resolved through the formula of a just and lasting solution, establishing a sovereign, independent and unified Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and co-existing. with the State of Israel.

The EU membership process has been a long and winding road for Turkey since it was officially accepted as a candidate country at the Helsinki summit in 1999. The negotiation process that started in 2005 has had ups and downs. neither side has achieved the goal. However, Türkiye continues to consider EU membership as one of its foreign policy priorities, and despite all the challenges and stalls, it is trying to revive the process within the framework of a positive agenda in areas such as climate, agriculture, migration and security, health, science, research and technology. and innovations.

On the other hand, the war between Russia and Ukraine has once again emphasized the importance of Turkey's membership for the future of the EU. Turkey's mediation role and intervention in critical issues, such as the grain agreement and the prisoner exchange agreement, which led to positive and concrete results, have both gained the appreciation of the international community and strengthened its critical role in regional and global challenges.

Thus, the recent development of Türkiye-EU relations is a clear proof that the current geopolitical conjuncture offers an important opportunity to promote relations.

The journey continues

The centenary journey was not easy. Türkiye has faced numerous trials and tribulations, but it has always emerged stronger and more determined than ever. We are committed to continuing to uphold the principles that have guided us for the past 100 years, namely democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Throughout the journey, Türkiye has promoted deep-rooted and versatile relations with countries in different parts of the world, among which Finland has a special place. Our diplomatic relations and cooperation have always been stable and continued to grow for many years. Turkey's relationship with Finland is built on mutual respect and commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in the international arena and now as NATO allies. Our countries have also acted as the chair of the UN Group of Friends of Mediation since 2010 in order to increase the effectiveness and capacity of UN peacebuilding.

The increase in economic ties and the establishment of mutual friendship groups in the parliaments after the 2023 elections in both countries are other positive significant developments. Cultural and educational exchange has always played a decisive role in increasing understanding and friendship between countries. Turkey and Finland have great opportunities to further appreciate the richness of each other's culture, nature and history. These interactions would promote a deeper and lasting understanding between our countries.

"Dost Acı Günde Belli Olur / A friend is known in times of pain"

Finland, among many other countries around the world, is one of the first to help the victims of the devastating earthquake in Kahramanmaraş and spreads its strong disruptive effect to nine provinces in Southeast Turkey. After the disaster, the kinship of Finns towards the victims was noteworthy. This sympathy was confirmed by the Finnish government's decision to send a team of experts and comprehensive "humanitarian aid". Turks are grateful to Finland and friendly Finns for that.

From the past to the future

The centenary of the Republic of Turkey is not just a celebration of the past; it is also the beginning of a new journey towards the future. In other words; We want to go a step further and turn this important anniversary into a new vision that will leave its mark on the next century. The vision of the President of Turkey, HE Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, "Century of Turkey" is a decision to realize the centenary dreams of the Turkish people and move towards a better future. We look forward to a century of continued cooperation, partnership, peace and progress. Let's try together to create a future where the world is a more prosperous place, no one is left behind.

Deniz Çakar

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary in Finland


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