The Embassy of Türkiye in Pretoria celebrated the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye on 29 October with a reception at the Turkish Ambassador’s residence.
The event gathered diplomats, South African government officials, and other guests, focusing on Türkiye’s rich history and its growing partnership with South Africa.
Ambassador Kezban Nilvana Darama Yıldırımgeç welcomed attendees and reflected on the importance of Republic Day, marking the establishment of the Republic in 1923 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
She emphasised the strong ties between Türkiye and South Africa, acknowledging their distinct historical experiences but shared aspirations for dialogue, development, and global peace.
Yıldırımgeç highlighted the upcoming Türkiye-South Africa Binational Commission meeting in 2025, which is expected to enhance bilateral cooperation and establish a stronger framework for future engagement.
Economic relations are a priority, with increasing interest from Turkish businesses in South Africa. She mentioned that the first meeting of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission would help identify new areas for cooperation and bring the two business communities closer together.
The ambassador also cited practical examples of collaboration benefiting local communities, such as Turkish expertise in biotechnology supporting animal health and food security in South Africa, and efforts to modernise the taxi sector.
She drew parallels between the humanist traditions of Anatolia and South Africa’s philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasises compassion, generosity, respect, and human dignity. “Our well-being is closely linked to the well-being of others,” she said, underscoring the need for solidarity amid today’s conflicts.
Yıldırımgeç addressed global challenges, including the humanitarian crises in Gaza and Ukraine, asserting that lasting peace requires dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to international law. She looked ahead to Türkiye hosting COP31 in Antalya in November 2026, viewing it as an opportunity for tangible climate action.
A South African representative echoed her sentiments, referring to the relationship as a lasting friendship based on mutual respect and shared values. He noted recent engagements, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s visit to Ankara in 2025, where he co-chaired the inaugural Binational Commission.
Progress in aerospace cooperation was also highlighted, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the South African National Space Agency and the Turkish Space Agency in October 2026.
Additionally, areas for expanded cooperation were identified, including agriculture, defence, education, energy, tourism, science, technology, innovation, and sports.
The event also recognised Türkiye’s increasing engagement with Africa, with the upcoming Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summit in December set to create further opportunities for strengthening ties.
As the evening concluded, guests celebrated not only the 103 years of the Turkish Republic but also the promising future for both nations committed to deepening friendship and expanding cooperation.
