The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye hosted a reception at the Songket Ballroom of Rizqun International Hotel to mark the 102nd Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye.
In his welcoming remarks, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Brunei, His Excellency Prof. Dr. Hamit Ersoy, opened the event by reflecting on the historic significance of the Republic’s anniversary and the enduring friendship and strong bilateral ties between Türkiye and Brunei Darussalam.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to this evening’s reception marking the One Hundred and Second Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye. It is both a privilege and an honour to host you as we commemorate one of the most defining moments in our nation’s history,” said Ambassador Ersoy.
He also highlighted the deepening relationship between Türkiye and Brunei Darussalam, noting: “Today, we celebrate not only the foundation of our Republic, but also the enduring friendship between Türkiye and Brunei Darussalam, two brotherly nations bound by shared values, mutual respect, and a spirit of solidarity that transcends geographical distance.”
The Ambassador pointed to cultural diplomacy as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship.
“Through initiatives such as Ebru workshops, traditional Turkish archery, and Turkish Language Courses, we have been introducing the beauty of Turkish art and culture to the people of Brunei. Events like Turkish Movie Day bring together friends of Türkiye for joyful celebrations of our language, art, and culture,” he said.
Concluding his speech, Ambassador Ersoy reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to cooperation and expressed gratitude to Brunei’s leadership.
“On the international stage, Türkiye and Brunei continue to pursue a positive and constructive agenda. I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and HM’s Government for their gracious hospitality and invaluable cooperation. With these feelings, I once again celebrate the One Hundred and Second Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye,” he shared.
The reception continued with the Guest of Honour, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Minister of Development, and his spouse. Tokens of appreciation were presented, followed by cake cutting and a group photo with members of the diplomatic corps.
Cultural highlights included poetry recitals by UNISSA students performing works by Turkish poet Yunus Emre, an Ebru art demonstration by Mdm. Lale Ersoy, and a musical performance by Turkish singer-songwriter Mr. Bahadir Orman.
The evening concluded with dinner and a lucky draw, celebrating Türkiye’s national pride and the enduring friendship and cultural ties with Brunei Darussalam.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
