Today we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Türkiye.

Following the restoration of Ukraine’s independence in 1991, Ukraine and Türkiye officially established diplomatic relations on February 3, 1992. Since then, cooperation between the two states has gradually evolved from good-neighborly relations into a strategic partnership.

Ankara consistently supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, does not recognize the occupation of Crimea, and advocates for the settlement of Russia’s war on the basis of a just peace with full respect for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

Today, the dialogue between Kyiv and Ankara is friendly, trusting, and open — just like the relations between the presidents of our two states. Ukraine and Türkiye are united not only by the Black Sea, but also by aligned interests, shared values, and a common vision of security architecture, development, and stability in the region.

Both Turkish and Ukrainian languages share a proverb that friends are known in times of trouble. This best defines our relationship.

Türkiye and the Turkish people have consistently supported Ukrainians since the very beginning of this war through various humanitarian initiatives — from providing rest and rehabilitation opportunities for hundreds of Ukrainian children to the recent transfer of generators at a critically important moment. In response to this solidarity, Ukrainian rescuers, despite the war, worked in Türkiye during the devastating earthquake, reaffirming our mutual support and trust.

Happy anniversary, dear friends!