Fadley Faisal
Brunei Darussalam and Turkiye hold excellent characters in their relations and strong sense of solidarity between the two countries; from the eagerness of Turkiye in 1984 to be the first to recognise Brunei upon independence to more recent reinvigorated relations.
This was said by Turkiye Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Professor Dr Hamit Ersoy on marking Turkiye’s 99th Republic Day at The Rizqun International Hotel on Monday.
Addressing guests and Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, the ambassador underlined the importance of Brunei-Turkiye relations.
“With the agreement on the mutual abolition of visas in 2012, the opening of embassies in both countries in 2013 and the following official heads of state visits – relations between Brunei and Turkiye have gained remarkable momentum. And since then, I am proud to share we are recording an increasing number of Bruneian tourists to Türkiye and many Bruneian students in Turkish universities,” the ambassador said.
He added, “We are now also witnessing an increasing bilateral trade volume with the invaluable support and cooperation of Bruneian businessmen.”
The ambassador reiterated Turkiye’s achievements amid obstacles towards modernising the republic, since the day of its struggle for independence.
The Embassy of Turkiye in Brunei Darussalam held the celebration to mark the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye which fell on October 29 and showcased Turkiye’s culture and cuisine.
There were also various arts performed live such as the Ebru (water marbling) with the instrument simultaneously playing Sufi Ney music in the background.
The ambassador and minister presented certificates of participation to 14 individuals who completed a Turkiye language course at the embassy.
