Turkish Minister Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş Highlights Strengthening Ties Between Turkey and Africa
The Turkish Minister of Family and Social Services, Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, emphasized the growing emotional bond between Turkey and Africa during her official visit to Senegal. This visit underscores Turkey’s deepening diplomatic and economic relationships with African nations, particularly Senegal.
As part of her itinerary, Minister Göktaş visited the Turkish Embassy in Dakar. She received briefings from Ambassador Nur Sağman about ongoing activities and met with Turkish citizens residing in Senegal.
During a gathering at the embassy, Minister Göktaş conveyed greetings from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and highlighted the historical and sincere ties between Turkey and Africa. “The friendship between Turkey and Africa has reached new heights since President Erdoğan initiated the Africa Outreach Policy in 2005, which evolved into the Africa Partnership Policy in 2013. This partnership aims to contribute to the social and economic development of the African continent and to enhance our bilateral relations based on mutual benefit,” she stated.
Minister Göktaş, who co-chairs the Turkey-Senegal Joint Economic Commission, noted the significance of this collaboration for the future of both countries and praised Senegal’s substantial contribution to the regional economy. “President Erdoğan has always valued relations with Senegal due to its potential and strength in the region. We are committed to fully supporting any initiatives with Senegal,” she emphasized.
Minister Göktaş also highlighted the strengthening emotional bond between Turkey and Africa and acknowledged the successes of Turkish institutions abroad. “You, the Turkish citizens living in Senegal, play a crucial role as representatives of our country, fostering friendship between our nations. The continuation of our unity and solidarity is our greatest hope,” she added before engaging with citizens to listen to their concerns.
As part of her visit, Minister Göktaş also explored the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE) in Dakar. Upon arrival, she was greeted by Merve Işık Efe, Director of the Dakar Yunus Emre Institute, and other officials. She toured the center and learned about its activities, which aim to promote Turkish culture and language.
Minister Göktaş participated in a pottery workshop organized by YEE, making a clay “baobab tree” sculpture with orphaned children to support their social integration. She then conversed with the children in French and signed the guestbook, acknowledging the institute’s essential role in strengthening cultural ties between Turkey and Senegal.
Additionally, Minister Göktaş visited the Senegal offices of the Turkish Maarif Foundation and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), receiving briefings on their ongoing projects.
Mahinur ÖZDEMİR GÖKTAŞ
Minister of Family and Social Services, Republic of Turkey