Turkish consul general in Greece’s Komotini bridges cultures on Int’l Women’s Day

Turkish consul general in Greek province of Komotini, and his wife build bridges between cultures and genders on International Women’s Day with special event

EXCLUSIVE BY SELIN HAYAT HACIALIOGLU — Turkish consul general in Komotini, Greece, Aykut Unal, and his wife Ilayda Unal, shared their messages of unity and solidarity during the International Women’s Day event held on Friday.

A large number of women from Xanthi and Komotini, including representatives from the Muftiate, enterpreneurs, housewives, women’s association officials and members, celebrated the important day at the consulate, reflecting a broad spectrum of participants.

Consul General Aykut Unal began his opening speech by congratulating all participants on Women’s Day, and then gave a brief speech highlighting the significance and meaning of the day.

He noted that Türkiye had granted women the right to vote and to be elected, prior to many European countries, emphasizing Türkiye’s progress in women’s rights. When Ilayda Unal took the stage, she started her speech by saying, “Today, we are here to support each other and build a stronger future together.”

She continued “We are supporters of your efforts as women to realize your potential and make the world a fairer and more egalitarian place. We will always support you.”

“After closely following and admiring the activities carried out by local women’s associations we assure you that we will participate in these events in the upcoming period as well,” she added.

Throughout the event, women of all ages chatted with each other and enjoyed various Turkish dishes like kisir, cookies, borek, and tea from the open buffet. At the end of the event, Consul General Aykut Unal and his wife Ilayda showed their courtesy by offering food to the Greek police officers standing guard outside.