Minister Işıkhan Attended Ukraine’s National Day Reception

Prof. Dr. Vedat Işıkhan, Minister of Labor and Social Security, participated in the Ukraine Independence Day Reception held at the Ukrainian Embassy in Ankara.

Speaking at the event, Işıkhan expressed his delight at being together on the occasion of Ukraine's 34th Independence Day, and stated, "Since 2011, we have shared not only a common geography but also a deep-rooted history with Ukraine, which has been our strategic partner. Türkiye is an unwavering supporter of Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Our strategic partnership with Ukraine has shown strong resilience in the face of the challenges posed by the ongoing war and has gained strong momentum by expanding into new dimensions. As geopolitically important Black Sea neighbors, Türkiye and Ukraine are working together to ensure that our shared maritime basin becomes a guarantee of lasting stability and prosperity in our region and beyond".

Minister Işıkhan emphasized that Crimea and the Crimean Tatars, located at the intersection of the historical friendship and ties between the two countries, are of utmost importance to Türkiye, he also stated as follows: "We remain steadfast in our support for the peaceful and legitimate cause of the Crimean Tatars. Türkiye will continue to work intensively for the establishment of a fair and long-lasting peace in Ukraine and for the end of the war through negotiations. Today, as we celebrate Ukraine's Independence Day, we once again appreciate the epic courage, resilience, and determination shown by the Ukrainian people in preserving their independence and sovereignty, which they achieved through huge difficulties. We would like to reiterate our condolences to all Ukrainians, including the Crimean Tatars who have lost their lives in the struggle for their homeland, and wish strength to their grieving families.

“Türkiye is playing an active role in Ukraine's reconstruction.”

Noting that Turkey-Ukraine cooperation has shown multidimensional developments in many areas since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1991, Işıkhan added:

“Our bilateral trade exceeded $6.2 billion last year. We strongly believe that the early entry into force of the free trade agreement will further improve our commercial relations. Türkiye is also playing an active role in Ukraine's reconstruction. Turkish companies have undertaken more than 300 projects in Ukraine worth over $10 billion to date. With their long-standing experience and powerful presence in the region, our companies are ready to contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine's infrastructure. Cooperation between Turkish and Ukrainian defense industries is another cornerstone of our partnership. Our institutions continue to work to further develop our cooperation in the field of defense. We believe that the friendship and solidarity between Türkiye and Ukraine will grow even stronger in the years ahead. We hope to establish a closer, stronger, and more dynamic partnership between our countries.

The reception was attended by Neriman Celal, Ambassador of Ukraine to Ankara, ambassadors, diplomats, members of parliament, and guests.