ABTTF attends Republic Day reception hosted by Türkiye's diplomatic missions in Brussels
The Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF) attended a reception in Brussels marking the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, hosted jointly by Türkiye's Embassy in Brussels and its Permanent Representations to NATO and the European Union (EU).
ABTTF President Halit Habipoglu attended the event with his wife and Deniz Servantie from the federation's Brussels office.
The reception was jointly hosted by Türkiye's Ambassador to Belgium, Görkem Barış Tantekin, Permanent Representative to NATO Ambassador Basat Öztürk, and Permanent Representative to the EU Ambassador Yaprak Balkan.
NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska and European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos attended as guests of honour.
The event brought together numerous bilateral ambassadors, permanent representatives to the EU and NATO, representatives of the Turkish community in Belgium, Turkish politicians, Turkish and international media representatives, heads of military delegations at NATO, and bilateral military attachés.
NATO AND EU OFFICIALS HIGHLIGHT TIES WITH TÜRKİYE
The reception opened with the national anthems of Türkiye and Belgium, followed by the NATO and EU anthems. It continued with a video message from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan marking the 103rd anniversary of the foundation of the Republic.
Speaking on behalf of the hosts, Ambassador Tantekin highlighted the significant achievements Türkiye has made since the establishment of the Republic and paid tribute to its founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska emphasised Türkiye's longstanding partnership with the Alliance and its position as a reliable NATO ally, while extending her congratulations on Republic Day.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos highlighted the considerable potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between Türkiye and the EU in areas including trade, transport, energy and security.
She also noted that the lives and family histories of millions of people of Turkish origin living across Europe serve as an important link between Türkiye and the European Union.
The reception provided an opportunity for diplomatic representatives, international institutions and members of the Turkish community in Belgium to mark Türkiye's Republic Day and reaffirm the importance of international cooperation.
