100th Anniversary Celebration of Turkish-Japanese Friendship
In a momentous occasion marking the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Japan, Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko of Japan graced Turkey with their presence. The royal couple, set to partake in various events until December 8th, were warmly received by President Erdogan in a grand ceremony at the Presidential Complex yesterday. Against the backdrop of Turkish and Japanese flags on the steps, Erdogan and Fumihito exchanged handshakes and posed for the press before engaging in bilateral discussions.
An Unforgettable Encounter
Before their meeting with Erdogan, the royal pair visited Ankara University, where they perused handmade products like origami, amigurumi, and Japanese calligraphy displayed by students in an exhibition. Following their visit to the Presidential Complex, the Crown Prince and Princess engaged with ambassadors, academics, representatives from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), and Turkish citizens connected to Japan at a hotel in Ankara. Discussions ranged from cultural and educational cooperation between the two countries to mutual assistance during natural disasters, particularly earthquakes.
The Enduring Saga of the Ertuğrul Frigate
The Ertuğrul Frigate, which carried the first organized diplomatic mission from the Islamic world to Japan, departed Istanbul in July 1889 with a crew of 609. Led by Osman Pasha, the envoy presented a letter and medal from Sultan Abdülhamid II to Emperor Meiji. Unfortunately, tragedy struck on the evening of September 16, 1890, when the Ertuğrul collided with rocks near Kuşimoto, resulting in the loss of 540 Ottoman sailors with only 69 survivors. The poignant tale of the Ertuğrul Frigate played a pivotal role in fostering a deep bond between the Turkish and Japanese peoples.
A Token of Friendship
During their visit to the Presidential Library, Emine Erdogan gifted Princess Akishino a Japanese edition of Rumi’s “Masnavi,” expressing hopes for further collaboration between their nations as she said, “Our wish is for this meaningful visit to deepen the cooperation between our countries.”
As we reflect on this historic milestone in Turkish-Japanese relations, let us remember the words of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who eloquently described the intertwining destinies of both nations through the symbolism of their flags. Just as the sun shines for Japan and the crescent moon and star represent Turkey, these two nations complement each other, emphasizing the profound significance of their enduring friendship.
In a poignant gesture, President Erdogan presented Akişino with a document showcasing the accolade bestowed upon Ottoman General Pertev Pasha by Emperor Mutsuhito, underscoring the rich tapestry of shared history between Turkey and Japan.
