Türkiye opened new page in history with Africa outreach: First lady

By Yildiz Nevin Gundogmus

ANKARA (AA) - Türkiye opened a new page in world history with its policy of outreach to Africa, the nation's first lady Emine Erdogan said on Tuesday.

"If we multiply the examples of kindness embodied in flesh and bones, both our world and our future will be better. In this sense, I believe that Türkiye has opened a brand-new page in world history with its Africa outreach," Erdogan told assembled ambassadors of African countries in the capital Ankara.

Erdogan said that the African continent had faced the "toughest tests" in human history.

"Türkiye has long been the voice of Africa in the international arena and has endeavored to ensure peace and stability on the continent," she stressed.

Erdogan added that Turkish state institutions, including the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), made great efforts for Africa’s development.

In addition, she said Turkish businesspeople have made investments in Africa that will help spur development, adding: "To date, more than 14,000 African students have benefited from Türkiye scholarships and brought knowledge and experience to their countries."

"This active, multi-dimensional and enterprising foreign policy approach has proven that it can work for the common happiness of humanity, leaving the countries’ interests aside," she said.

Erdogan said she expects support from the ambassadors of African countries to reach more African women and empower them economically.

"Türkiye is still the most generous country in the world today, as it has never weakened its historical reflexes that embrace all humanity. We have a long way to go with African countries, which we consider our own brothers," she added.

* Writing by Diyar Guldogan