Turkish parliament approves law establishing Foreign Affairs Foundation

The Turkish parliament has approved the Law on the Foreign Affairs Strengthening Foundation proposal. This law aims to establish the Foreign Affairs Organization Foundation, based in Ankara, to enhance the Foreign Ministry’s activities and improve its personnel’s training and capabilities.

The foundation is empowered to acquire, lease and construct properties, purchase and allocate vehicles, and utilize ministry-owned properties.

It can also establish higher education institutions and support the development of personnel qualifications and representation skills.

To generate income, the foundation can engage in various financial and real estate transactions, establish companies and operate commercial enterprises.

The foundation will be governed by the Board of Trustees, the Executive Board, and the Audit Board. The Board of Trustees, chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, will comprise 10 members, including at least five ministry staff, serving five-year terms.

Five members will be elected to the executive board for three years, which is responsible for operations and representation.

Three members will be appointed to the audit board for three years, which oversees the foundation’s activities and accounts.

The foundation’s revenues will come from donations, financial instruments, organized events, services and various activities.

The foundation will be exempt from certain taxes and fees, and donations to it can be tax deductible. The foundation’s establishment and registration procedures must be completed within one year, and a budget of ₺10 million ($309,850.00) must be transferred from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.