The Republic of Türkiye was founded on October 29, 1923, under the visionary leadership of our esteemed founder and the first President, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, hailed as the Father of the Turks. Following the triumphant conclusion of the War of Independence, Atatürk embarked on a transformative journey, modernising the nation through revolutionary reforms. Over the past century, Türkiye has undergone a profound metamorphosis, emerging as a modern, dynamic, and influential global player. This century has witnessed the establishment of a robust democracy, the evolution of a diverse and dynamic economy, and the promotion of education and culture.
Türkiye's Visionary Century
As we embark on Türkiye's "Century of Türkiye," a visionary concept introduced by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, our nation aspires to propel itself forward with renewed vigour and enthusiasm, building on the achievements of the past century. In a world marked by rapid geopolitical shifts and mounting global challenges, we are committed to fostering peace and security, strengthening international relations, promoting prosperity, and advancing our global objectives—cornerstones of Turkish foreign policy in this new century.
Pursuing these goals and guided by our enduring objective, "Peace at home, peace in the world," as articulated by the founder of our Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Türkiye pursues an enterprising and humanitarian foreign policy. Drawing strength from our geographical location, rich historical heritage, robust institutions, skilled human resources, and dynamic economy, our comprehensive foreign policy encompasses political, economic, cultural, and multilateral dimensions.
H.E. Ms. Serap Ersoy, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Thailand
Global Cooperation in a Complex World
Within this framework, Türkiye has cultivated an extensive global network of cooperation, including High-Level Cooperation Councils with 30 countries, four Intergovernmental Summits, and numerous trilateral and multilateral regional initiatives. Our close ties extend to regions including the Balkans, the Middle East, North Africa, Southern Caucasus, South and Central Asia, and beyond. Türkiye's "Asia Anew" initiative, launched in 2019, underscores our commitment to developing comprehensive relations with Asia and the Pacific, home to rising powers in the 21st century. We have expanded our presence in ASEAN countries, fostering strategic relations and seeking to harmonise China's Belt and Road Initiative with our Middle Corridor Initiative.
We also remain committed to strengthening our strategic relations with Europe, with EU membership as a strategic priority. Türkiye maintains a vital partnership with the United States as a NATO ally, contributing significantly to security and prosperity in Europe. Our role as an energy hub and transit country further underscores our importance in European and global energy security.
Additionally, Türkiye supports regional ownership and solutions for regional challenges, participating actively in various regional organisations and initiatives. In today's complex world, addressing global challenges necessitates collective efforts through cooperation and effective multilateralism, a philosophy that guides Türkiye's active diplomacy within multilateral forums. We advocate for diplomacy over confrontation, dialogue over discord, and engagement over isolation, exemplified by our mediating role in several international conflicts. Türkiye's active involvement in organisations such as G-20, the UN Security Council, and our advocacy for UN reform demonstrates our commitment to global peace, stability, and security.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder and the first President of the Republic of Türkiye
Türkiye's Compassion and Aid to the World
As we celebrate our centenary, Türkiye remains dedicated to shaping a brighter and more prosperous future, fostering global cooperation, and advocating for the betterment of humanity through diplomacy, dialogue, and collaboration within the international community.
In addition to our enterprising foreign policy, the human element remains central to our endeavours. Türkiye has embraced its role as a compassionate global power, exemplified by our response during the coronavirus pandemic, where we extended assistance to 160 countries and 12 international organisations. This underscores the humanitarian dimension of our foreign policy. Our commitment to humanity extends to our developmental and humanitarian aid programs, where Türkiye stands as the world's largest humanitarian donor, with the highest per capita humanitarian spending. Türkiye also holds the distinction of being the world's top host country for refugees, providing sanctuary to over 3.4 million Syrians under temporary protection. Our humanitarian efforts reach far beyond our borders, encompassing regions like Somalia, Yemen, and the Rohingya Refugee crisis. Through agencies like the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD), we offer not only material aid but also healthcare and education, reflecting our commitment to global welfare.
Cultural Bridges and Shared Heritage
Türkiye's rich cultural heritage serves as a bridge between civilizations, fostering dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among nations. Our enterprising foreign policy extends beyond political spheres, touching the hearts and minds of individuals, nurturing a shared sense of humanity and mutual respect among diverse populations.
As we embark on the "Century of Türkiye," our determination grows stronger. We will continue to be a beacon of stability, working towards a world that is prosperous, peaceful, and just. This journey entails forging partnerships, promoting dialogue, and, above all, safeguarding the principles of humanity.
Thailand and Türkiye: 65 Years of Friendship
2023 also marks another significant occasion: the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Türkiye and the Kingdom of Thailand. As we commemorate this milestone, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journey that our nations have undertaken since 1958.
The bond between Türkiye and Thailand is characterised by mutual respect, growing economic collaborations, cultural exchanges, shared values, and a common vision for regional peace and stability. This anniversary offers both countries the chance not only to celebrate their shared history but also to chart paths for future collaboration across various sectors.
Formalising diplomatic relations in 1958 laid the foundation for a fruitful relationship that has spanned over six decades. However, interactions date back to the 19th century when Prince Damrong visited Istanbul on his way to continental Europe, establishing warm relations with Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, both nations have cooperated closely across numerous fronts, embracing diverse cultures, traditions, and values. Türkiye and Thailand maintain friendly relations founded on partnership and mutual benefit. High-level visits have been pivotal in deepening bilateral ties, with leaders from both countries exchanging visits to bolster cooperation and explore new avenues.
To enhance economic cooperation, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Don Pramudwinai visited Türkiye in January this year, marking the 4th Joint Economic Commission meeting. The discussions encompassed a wide range of areas, reflecting the broad scope of Türkiye-Thailand relations. The "2nd Turkish-Thai Joint Action Plan 2023-2028" was signed, encompassing various fields of cooperation and aiming to strengthen the partnership.
Türkiye and Thailand, both significant players in their respective regions, have consistently worked to enhance their economic and trade relations over the years. Bilateral trade reached 2.2 billion Dollars in 2022, an all-time high, covering products ranging from agricultural goods to technological and industrial products. Extensive business delegations and trade fairs have played a pivotal role in forging these connections. Favourable investment climates in both countries have facilitated mutual investments, with leading Türkiye-based companies such as BEKO, HİDROMEK, KORDSA, Hayat Kimya, Tuğba Dairy, and Farplas investing in Thailand. Conversely, prominent Thai companies, CP and Indorama, have invested in Türkiye. We encourage more Thai companies to explore investment opportunities in Türkiye, benefiting from its dynamic economy, robust
infrastructure, and strategic location as a gateway to Europe, North Africa, the Mediterranean economic zone, and the Middle East. Moreover, Turkish Airlines has increased its daily direct flights between Istanbul and Bangkok to six, and a memorandum of understanding between Turkish Airlines and Thai Airways was signed in August this year, aiming to enhance cooperation through a joint venture operation.
Digital Opportunities and Emerging Sectors
With the digital age reshaping global economies, emerging sectors like technology, renewable energy, green economy, and connectivity present new avenues for collaboration between our nations. The defence industry is also emerging as a promising area for future cooperation. As both countries continue to prioritise economic diplomacy, the prospects for even more significant collaboration in trade, investment, and other sectors are promising. The time is ripe for seizing these opportunities.
Cultural exchanges between Türkiye and Thailand have played a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding and respect for each other's heritage and traditions. Events organised by the Embassy this year, such as culinary festivals, movie screening days, and photo exhibitions commemorating the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations, have not only promoted friendship but also strengthened people-to-people bonds.
Education and People-to-People Connections
Education serves as a vital bridge between our nations, with an increasing number of Thai students pursuing their education in Türkiye through various scholarship programs. These connections among our young people hold the promise of a brighter future with enhanced collaboration and understanding. We will continue to encourage Thai students to explore educational opportunities in Türkiye. In line with our growing relations in the field of education and cultural exchanges, I am pleased to announce that the Maarif Foundation has been working on establishing a school in Thailand. The Maarif Foundation has the exclusive authority to establish schools abroad on behalf of the Turkish government. Additionally, the Yunus Emre Cultural Institute, named after a prominent Turkish folk poet and mystic, plans to open an office at one of Bangkok's esteemed universities, offering Turkish language courses. These educational and cultural exchanges are vital for nurturing people-to-people connections, which form the foundation for enduring international relations.
Multilateral Collaboration on Global Challenges
Türkiye and Thailand have cooperated in various multilateral platforms, aligning with shared goals in sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and the fight against global inequality, especially within the United Nations. Our collaboration on the international stage reinforces the concept of effective multilateralism and sets an example for cooperative international relations.
Regional ownership and partnerships are among the most important aspects of enhanced cooperation and dialogue among nations, ensuring security, stability, and increased economic collaboration within their respective regions and beyond. Thailand has played a significant role in ASEAN since its inception, remaining a vital player in regional diplomacy, economic integration, cultural exchange, and security cooperation. With Thailand's support, Türkiye has become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner with ASEAN. Recently, the Turkish Grand National Assembly obtained observer status at the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA). We look forward to expanding our cooperation with ASEAN into new horizons with continued support from friends like Thailand.
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Building Prosperity Through Trade and Investment
The 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Thailand is more than a commemoration of the past; it is a celebration of a future filled with possibilities. The solid foundation built over these six decades serves as a springboard for deeper engagement, not only between our governments but also between our people. In a world grappling with various geopolitical challenges, our bonds of friendship and close cooperation will continue to grow stronger with each passing year. Speaking of friendship and deep ties between our countries, I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude once again to their Majesties, the Thai government, the private sector, and the entire Thai nation for their generosity, support, and solidarity with Türkiye following the devastating earthquakes that occurred on February 6th in the southern part of our country. The Turkish nation will always cherish this act of friendship in the years to come.
Türkiye will continue to stand out as a reliable and responsible regional and global actor as it embarks on the journey into the "Century of Türkiye." Our enterprising and humanitarian foreign policy will persist in securing our national interests while simultaneously contributing to the shared goals of humanity. With these thoughts and sentiments, I commemorate with great joy and pride the 100th anniversary of Türkiye's foundation. I also celebrate the 65th anniversary of Turkish-Thai friendship, which I am confident will grow even stronger with time. Long live Turkish-Thai Friendship, Long live the Republic of Türkiye. Happy 29th October Republic Day.