Ankara, March 10 – The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Ankara organized an iftar program titled “Kandil and Kalem: A Meeting of Ideas.” The event, hosted by UAE Ambassador to Ankara Said Sani ez-Zahiri, focused on cultural similarities between the UAE and Turkey and included a book presentation.
A New Era of Constructive Partnership
Following the iftar program, Ambassador Zahiri stated that the relationship between the UAE and Turkey is experiencing a new era of constructive partnership and cooperation. He emphasized that this development is not limited to economic and strategic areas but also strengthens bilateral relations and cultural dialogue between the two friendly nations and their peoples.
Ambassador Zahiri highlighted the shared culture between the UAE and Turkey, drawing parallels between the sayings of the UAE’s founding leader Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Turkish luminaries Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi and Yunus Emre. He provided examples of their similar views on various topics, underscoring the cultural commonality.
“What Life Has Taught Me” and Shared Values
Zahiri specifically mentioned Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s book, “What Life Has Taught Me,” citing examples of his words on themes such as hope, compassion, human values, tolerance, and patience. He noted that this comparative study, featuring sentences from different figures from both countries, revealed a convergence in their perspectives and thought processes regarding life.
He further added that these individuals were people of great life experience, all striving to uphold the same values and endeavoring to understand humanity and society.
Strengthening Bonds Through Cultural Exchange
The “Kandil and Kalem: A Meeting of Ideas” program serves as a testament to the growing cultural exchange between the UAE and Turkey. Such initiatives play a crucial role in deepening mutual understanding and appreciation between the two countries, fostering stronger bonds that extend beyond political and economic spheres.
The event underscores the commitment of both nations to promoting dialogue and collaboration across various sectors, recognizing the power of culture in building lasting friendships and partnerships. The emphasis on shared values and historical wisdom from influential figures from both cultures provides a solid foundation for continued cooperation and mutual respect.
The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Ankara continues to play an active role in facilitating these cultural bridges, aiming to enhance the already robust relationship between the UAE and Turkey. This iftar program is one of many initiatives designed to bring the peoples of both nations closer through shared cultural experiences and intellectual discourse.
The success of the event indicates a strong desire from both sides to explore and celebrate their common heritage, paving the way for future collaborations in cultural, educational, and social fields.
