Embassy hosts Turkish Cuisine Week in Cairo

Türkiye’s Ambassador to Cairo Salih Mutlu Sen hosted Egyptian guests and foreign diplomats at an evening dinner held at the residence of the Turkish Embassy in Cairo as part of the Turkish Cuisine Week, spearheaded by first lady Emine Erdogan.

Flavors from Aegean cuisine were showcased during the Turkish Cuisine Week in Egypt.

The guests were served delicacies such as olives and cheeses from the Aegean region, tarhana soup, mucver (zucchini fritters), stuffed vegetables with olive oil, herb-filled pastry and flatbread, Izmir meatballs, shrimp casserole and fig dessert.

Fondness for Turkish cuisine

Speaking at the event, Sen emphasized the long history of culinary exchange between Türkiye and Egypt. He noted that both countries boast some of the oldest and most influential cuisines in the Middle East, with a rich tradition of mutual influence.

Highlighting the unique products of each region and even province in Türkiye, Sen mentioned that this year’s theme was “Aegean Cuisine.”

Beyond shared dishes, Ambassador Sen pointed out the growing ties between the two countries in the hospitality industry. Many hotels in Egypt utilize Turkish equipment, supplies, and even chefs, reflecting the increasing popularity of Turkish cuisine among Egyptian tourists. This culinary connection serves as a bridge, not only through delicious food but also by enhancing the appeal of both nations as tourist destinations.

Turkish humanitarian assistance to Gaza

Sen reaffirmed Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to supporting Gaza with humanitarian aid, especially vital food supplies. He emphasized that thousands of tons of aid are prepared for immediate dispatch with cooperation from Egypt for delivery and a secure passage through the Rafah Border Crossing.

He stressed the necessity for Israel to withdraw from the Rafah Border Crossing and ensure security for the resumption of humanitarian aid shipments.

Ambassador Sen welcomed the agreement reached between U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi during their May 24 phone call regarding temporary humanitarian aid entries from the Kerm Ebu Salim Border Crossing to Gaza. He emphasized the urgent need for international efforts and pressure on Israel to facilitate the immediate entry of food aid to Gaza.

Sen also mentioned Türkiye’s humanitarian activities for tens of thousands of Gazans entering Egypt with the support of the Egyptian government.

In conclusion, Sen announced that the Turkish Republic’s Embassy in Cairo would host and share sacrificial meat with 500 Palestinian families during Eid al-Adha.