The Embassy of Turkey in Pretoria recently hosted a reception to mark the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. The event brought together diplomats, South African government officials, and other guests to commemorate the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Turkish Ambassador Kezban Nilvana Darama Yıldırımgeç welcomed attendees, highlighting the significance of Republic Day and the strong ties between Turkey and South Africa.
Ambassador Yıldırımgeç emphasised the shared aspirations of Turkey and South Africa for dialogue, development, and global peace. She noted that despite their distinct historical experiences, both nations are committed to deepening their cooperation. The upcoming Türkiye-South Africa Binational Commission meeting in 2025 is expected to enhance bilateral cooperation and establish a stronger framework for future engagement. This meeting will focus on economic relations, with increasing interest from Turkish businesses in South Africa.
The first meeting of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission will help identify new areas for cooperation and bring the two business communities closer together. Ambassador Yıldırımgeç cited practical examples of collaboration benefiting local communities, such as Turkish expertise in biotechnology supporting animal health and food security in South Africa. Additionally, Turkey is working with South Africa to modernise the taxi sector, demonstrating the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships.
Ambassador Yıldırımgeç drew parallels between the humanist traditions of Anatolia and South Africa's philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasises compassion, generosity, respect, and human dignity. She highlighted the need for solidarity amid today's conflicts, stating that "our well-being is closely linked to the well-being of others." The ambassador also addressed global challenges, including humanitarian crises in Gaza and Ukraine, asserting that lasting peace requires dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to international law.
A South African representative echoed the ambassador's sentiments, referring to the relationship as a lasting friendship based on mutual respect and shared values. The representative noted recent engagements, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile's visit to Ankara in 2025, where he co-chaired the inaugural Binational Commission. This visit marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship, with progress in aerospace cooperation following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the South African National Space Agency and the Turkish Space Agency.
The event also recognised areas for expanded cooperation, including agriculture, defence, education, energy, tourism, science, technology, innovation, and sports. Turkey's increasing engagement with Africa was also highlighted, with the upcoming Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summit in December set to create further opportunities for strengthening ties. This summit will provide a platform for Turkey to deepen its relationships with African nations and explore new areas for cooperation.
As the evening concluded, guests celebrated not only the 103 years of the Turkish Republic but also the promising future for both nations committed to deepening friendship and expanding cooperation. The celebration marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship, with both sides expressing their commitment to strengthening ties and exploring new areas for cooperation.
Key points
- Turkey and South Africa aim to enhance bilateral cooperation through the upcoming Binational Commission meeting in 2025.
- The two nations have identified areas for expanded cooperation, including agriculture, defence, education, and science.
- Turkey will host COP31 in Antalya in November 2026, providing an opportunity for tangible climate action.
