The Turkish Ambassador for London Abdurrahman Bilgiç has issued his new year message as 2015 slowly prepares to come to an end.
He sent his message to Turkish Community living in Britain, below is an extract.
“Dearest readers and citizens of our community in England,
I am for the second time experiencing the joy of celebrating new year with you all, and I would like to wish that 2016 brings you, your families and nearest good health, happiness and success.
It is with pleasure, that we are following the Turkish community in England’s adaptation to the social, economic and cultural lifestyle in England, which is growing continuously. Our Turkish Citizens and fellow Turkish Cypriots have taken their place in many sectors in England. Ranging from fashion to banking and councilling to politics. It makes us very proud to see them add such achievements to their success stories.
I believe that as readers you will too agree that our community reaching this stage and continuing to progress stems from education and the integration between the community we live in.
2.6 MILLION BRITISH TOURISTS VISIT TURKEY
Whether is be with the progress of our international ties with England or the success we have recently had, the Turkish and English members of the public are now communicating and getting to know eachother better. Our country (Turkey), when it comes to England is one of the most attracting countries to tourists, it is known as a central tourist location, yearly 2.6 million British tourists visit Turkey. Our students are choosing England as a favourite among countries to study, becoming one of the most popular places to study for people in Turkey. As a result, I believe that it is possible to say that the two countries ties are very strong.
We are a variety of policies being used to strengthen the ties and allow the relations to grow between England and ourselves. In this frame, I know feel it is very important that these visits continue with both countries to bring the relations to a high level.
Our Prime Minister visited the United Kingdom between 19-21 January this year (2015), following his visit, Prince Charles and Prince Harry visited our country in April for the 100th year anniversary of the Çanakkale War. Prime Minister Cameron then visited our country in attending the G20 Summit between the 15-16 November 2015.
Meetings continue to take place at the JETCO, as they have done every year. This year the partnership between both countries and all the business and economic topics are being discussed. The next meeting which will be in 2016 is set to be held in London.”
He ends the message by once again wishing the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot community a warm, healthy, happy and prosperous new year 2016.