| |
 | Speeches | | |
President of the Republic Presentation of the Letter of Credence By H.E. Mr Ömer Altuğ, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey December 6, 200106.12.2001
Your Excellency, Mr Ambassador,
I am pleased to welcome you. I am extremely pleased that you are the first ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to reside in Estonia after the restoration of Estonia's independence.
This year has been quite significant in the history of Estonian-Turkish relations. Our countries have reached in their diplomatic relations the opening of embassies. I believe this step fully corresponds to the nature and frequency of Estonian-Turkish relations. This is definitely an expression of our deepening friendship.
The foreign policy aspirations of Estonia and Turkey are quite similar. We are interested in good relations with neighbouring countries, stable societal development and securing peace and security all over the world. Estonia values highly the support of Turkey to Estonia's aspirations to accede to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.
I consider Turkish efforts in preventing threats to security and peace. Due to its geographical position Turkey plays a key role in mitigating several local conflicts. On the international level Estonia and Turkey can co-operate efficiently both in globalisation process and in combating the threat of international terrorism.
Estonia as an EU candidate country follows with deep interest Turkey's aspirations in developing relations with the European Union in order to accede to the EU. This is yet another joining link creating a favourable ground for a mutually fruitful dialogue.
I am convinced that we have excellent prerequisites to enhance relations in the field of culture and education. The interest in the Turkish language and culture is deep-rooted and has a long history. Several educational establishments have launched promising co-operation in teaching the language and student exchange.
Mr ambassador, you will have a great opportunity residing in Estonia to develop further friendly and substantial co-operation between our countries.
I wish you success in this mission.
|
| |
|
vpk.ee
