DOHA:Turkish President HE Recep Tayyip Erdogan will make a short official visit to Qatar on Tuesday,Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye HE Dr Mustafa Goksu said. It is part of the Turkish president's Gulf tour.
Addressing a press conference commemorating the 7th anniversaryof the failed coup attempt, the envoy said that the Turkish president will also be visiting Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates during his tour.
He said that the primary objective of President Erdogan's visit is to express his gratitude to the leaders of these countries, particularly HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for their historic assistance during the earthquake in February 2023. Moreover, Turkiyelooks forward to further strengthening ties, exploring avenues of collaboration, and working together towards a more prosperous and secure future for the nations.
Ambassador Dr Goksu said that during the president's visit, discussions are expected to cover various topics including preparations for the ninth edition of the Supreme Strategic Committee, investment opportunities, economic preparations, and regional issues.
He added that it is an opportunity to further strengthen bilateral relations and explore possible avenues for collaboration and mutual benefit.
Talking on the commemoration of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016, the Turkish ambassador said that on this day, Turkish people pay their homage to 251 citizens who sacrificed their lives and over 2,000 injured to safeguard the democratic process in the country towards its smooth journey towards development, peace and security. The vigilant response of the Turkish people prevented the coup plotters from succeeding in their heinous plan, he added.
He said that the failed coup attempt significantly influenced Turkiye'sforeign and security policies. It introduced a new threat dimension named FETÖ alongside other terrorist organisations, diversifying Turkiye'ssecurity agenda.
He said: "We have consistently fought against FETÖ within the boundaries of the rule of law and fundamental rights and freedoms. We have also been actively seeking cooperation from our allies and partners, urging them to take necessary actions against FETÖ-affiliated individuals and entities."
Dr Goksu said that in addition, in recent years, Türkiye has overcome successfully numerous additional challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating earthquake that struck 11 cities in the southern region, resulting in the loss of approximately 60,000 lives, and over 100,000 buildings collapsed or suffered severe damage.
The Turkish envoy paid his gratitude to Qatar for extending generous assistance to alleviate the suffering of the earthquake victims, particularly through the provision of 10,000 mobile homes - portacabins.He said that recently Turkiye held successful presidential and parliamentary elections ensuring a fair, secure, transparent, and peaceful election environment. "These elections showcased the maturity of our democracy and the unwavering acknowledgement of the power of the national will in Türkiye."
The Turkish envoy said: "We will proudly celebrate the centenary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye and the 500th anniversary of the establishment of the Turkish Foreign Ministry. 2023 also marks the 50th anniversary of Turkish-Qatari relations, prompting us to organise various events to commemorate these milestones. The achievement of the tangible goals set under President Erdogan'sleadership will not only enhance peace and prosperity within the country but also contribute to the region and beyond."
A large photographic display on the occasion highlightedthe struggle and bravery of the empty-handed Turkish people against the armed members of the forces influenced by the damaging propaganda of the terrorist FETO group.
