ISTANBUL — A formal reception marking the 35th anniversary of the Republic of Armenia’s independence was held in Istanbul on October 14, marking the first such event in nine years. Hosted by Nairi Petrosyan, Armenia’s Permanent Representative to the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), the reception was attended by Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Berris Ekinci, whose presence represented the highest level of official Turkish participation in an Armenian Independence Day reception to date.

The event, held at the InterContinental Hotel in Istanbul’s Taksim district, brought together heads of foreign diplomatic missions, Turkey’s Special Representative for the normalization of relations with Armenia, Serdar Kılıç, leaders of Armenian community foundations in Turkey, Hrant Dink Foundation President Rakel Dink, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Armenian Patriarch of Turkey Sahak Mashalian, and Armenian Evangelical community spiritual leader Grigor Ağabaloğlu.

During the official ceremony, Petrosyan thanked the guests for attending and addressed Armenia–Turkey relations and prospects for regional peace.

“Our hope is that peace and cooperation will prevail in this region,” Petrosyan said, emphasizing that Armenia has adopted a “Neighbors First” policy that prioritizes relations with neighboring countries and considers contributing to regional stability one of its key responsibilities.

Petrosyan concluded her remarks in Armenian with the declaration, “Long live Armenia!”

In his address, Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Berris Ekinci described the reception as an important reflection of the progress achieved toward normalizing relations between the two countries.

“We are conducting this process with utmost sincerity and determination, with the aim of achieving the full normalization of bilateral relations,” Ekinci stated.

He welcomed the recent increase in high-level reciprocal visits, noting that they have helped strengthen dialogue and foster mutual understanding.

Ekinci also highlighted tangible steps taken in transportation, energy, and cultural cooperation, as well as ongoing efforts to resume direct trade between Armenia and Turkey.

“All these steps provide a solid foundation for looking toward the future of our region with great hope and optimism,” he said, reaffirming Turkey’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the South Caucasus.

Ekinci concluded his remarks by congratulating Armenia on the 35th anniversary of its independence.

Following the speeches, the national anthems of Turkey and Armenia were played.

The reception, held after a nine-year hiatus, carried particular symbolic significance amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to normalize relations between Armenia and Turkey. The high-level Turkish participation underscored the continuing dialogue between the two neighboring countries and their stated commitment to advancing regional peace and cooperation.

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