Türkiye, Czechia to celebrate 100 years of diplomatic relations

Türkiye’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic Egemen Bagis highlighted the importance of the centennial of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Czechia, speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA).

Bilateral tradel goal set at $10 billion

He emphasized the shared goal of increasing the bilateral trade volume to $10 billion, underscoring the significant growth in economic ties between the two nations.

“When I arrived here, President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan tasked us with increasing the bilateral trade volume from $3 billion to $5 billion. We have surpassed this target, reaching $6.5 billion. Now, our new goal is $10 billion,” he said.

Bagis highlighted Türkiye’s automotive exports to the Czech Republic, mentioning significant economic developments.

“Skoda’s market share in Türkiye has grown by more than 8%. Additionally, over 200 trucks produced in Türkiye were sold to Czechia last year.

Turkish-made buses have also entered the market. Notably, Czech company PPF Holding acquired a 50% stake in TEMSA, a leading Turkish electric bus manufacturer, starting a strategic partnership,” he added.

In a significant development, Bagis revealed that some trams in Prague would soon be manufactured in Adana, Türkiye, for export to Central Asia.

Ataturk’s diary in Czechia

Bagis recalled Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s visit to Karlovy Vary (Karslbad) in 1917 for treatment. “During his stay, Atatürk kept a diary, where he conceptualized many reforms that would later become fundamental to the Republic’s development, including women’s rights and the alphabet reform. After founding the Republic, he ordered the establishment of one of the first diplomatic missions here in 1924. Historically, the Ottoman Dynasty also maintained strong ties with the Bohemian and Moravian Kingdoms,” Bagis explained.

He mentioned that a portrait of Halide Edip Adıvar, painted by renowned Czech artist Alfons Mucha in 1928, was displayed in the Czech Senate for six months during Czechia’s European Union presidency in 2022.

Bagis also noted the importance of cultural activities, such as the annual event held at Cafe Slavia in Prague, where Nazım Hikmet wrote his poems.

Czechia supports Türkiye’s EU membership

Despite differing perspectives, Bagis acknowledged Czechia’s support for Türkiye’s EU membership. “Just as we supported their NATO membership, they have consistently supported us in our EU accession process. Türkiye and Czechia collaborate well on EU matters,” he stated.

Bagis highlighted the invitation extended by Czech President Petr Pavel to President Erdogan for an official visit. “We are preparing the necessary groundwork for our President’s visit. We would be honored to host him here again,” he said.

Strong tourism ties

Bagis emphasized the robust tourism ties between the two nations. “We have significant collaborations in tourism. During the summer, eight flights daily from Czechia to Antalya reflect our strong ties. Last year, we sent 380,000 Czechs on vacation. This figure is substantial relative to their population. Outside the EU, Türkiye is either their first or second choice for vacations each year. We have promoted Türkiye effectively. In winter, Czechs visit Kemer for golf,” he remarked.

Bagis also noted that the Turkish Embassy residence in Prague, used since 1949, will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year.