Türkiye's Embassy in Zambia marks Democracy and National Unity Day

By James Kunda

LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) - Türkiye's Embassy in the southern African nation of Zambia on Saturday marked Democracy and National Unity Day to honor the heroes who sacrificed their lives to defend Turkish democracy and unity from an attempted coup on July 15, 2016.

Before a football match of Zambian lawmaker members of the Zambian-Turkish Friendship Group, there was a moment of silence in honor of 251 Turkish citizens who lost their lives and the thousands wounded in an attack on the Turkish parliament and other institutions.

"In our history of more than 1,000 years, the Turkish nation has endured many challenges, wars, and struggles alike and overcome its darkest days by standing together and getting even stronger. To mark our democracy and national unity day, with a friendship match between the two friendly Turkish and Zambian teams, let us express our sincere wish for peace, stability, unity, and prosperity in Türkiye and Zambia," said Istem Circiroglu, Türkiye's ambassador to Zambia,.

Zambia's Youth, Sport and Arts Minister Elvis Nkandu said the occasion proved that the Turkish nation once again proved its commitment to democracy and demonstrated its unity and solidarity.

Nkandu said that over the years, Türkiye had emerged as a leading country in diplomacy, aviation, transport and logistics, the defense industry, energy, technology, and education and health, among other areas.

"Türkiye is also a favored destination for tourism, trade, and business contacts," Nkandu said.

The two countries continue enjoying cordial bilateral ties, with Türkiye's national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, offering weekly flights between the capital Lusaka with Istanbul, Türkiye's commercial capital and tourist hub.

Turkish railway construction company Yapiiray has also partnered with Africa's number two mineral producer on a project to improve infrastructure in the sector.