The Turkish Embassy in Niger organized a reception on October 29, 2026, at the Radisson Blu hotel in Niamey to celebrate the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye. The event was attended by several members of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, the former President of the Republic, General Salou Djibo, government officials, and the Turkish community in Niger.

During the event, Turkish Ambassador to Niger Özgür Arslan reaffirmed the excellent bilateral relations between Türkiye and Niger. The ceremony began with the execution of the national anthems of Niger, Türkiye, and the Alliance of Sahel States. Ambassador Arslan expressed his gratitude to the Nigerien authorities and people for their presence and highlighted the strong cooperation between the two countries in various sectors.

Ambassador Arslan recalled that Türkiye's policy of opening up to Africa, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is based on solidarity, mutual benefit, and respect for the sovereignty of states. He cited key areas of cooperation, including defense, health, education, energy, mining, vocational training, humanitarian action, and tourism. The ambassador emphasized that the relationship between Niger and Türkiye has strengthened significantly in recent years.

The commemoration takes place at a time when Türkiye and Niger have intensified their high-level contacts. Ambassador Arslan mentioned the visit of Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine to Türkiye in 2024, followed by a high-level Turkish delegation to Niamey. This strategic rapprochement reached its peak with the official visit of Nigerien President Abdourahamane Tiani to Türkiye in June.

During his visit, President Tiani and Turkish leaders laid the foundations for a multidimensional and sustainable partnership. Ambassador Arslan confirmed that Türkiye remains a reliable and committed partner, working for the prosperity and dignity of the Sahelian people. He expressed his country's willingness to deepen its political and economic relations with Niger.

The event was attended by a large gathering of dignitaries, including members of the Consultative Council for Refoundation, diplomatic mission heads, and many guests. The Turkish ambassador's speech highlighted the significance of the relationship between Niger and Türkiye and the commitment to further strengthen ties between the two nations.

The celebration of Türkiye's 103rd anniversary in Niamey demonstrates the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and their commitment to deepening cooperation in various sectors. The event provided an opportunity for both nations to reaffirm their mutual support and solidarity.

Key points

  • - The Turkish Embassy in Niger celebrated the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye in Niamey on October 29, 2026. - The event was attended by several high-ranking Nigerien officials and dignitaries. - Türkiye and Niger have strengthened their cooperation in various sectors, including defense, health, education, and energy.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.