Ukrainian Deputy FM Sybiha thanks Türkiye for support toward just peace
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha meets with Ukrainian citizens living in Antalya at the Ukraine Cultural Park at Muratpasa district in Antalya, Türkiye on April 10, 2025. (AA Photo)
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed gratitude toward Türkiye during a visit to Antalya, where the Antalya Diplomacy Forum is scheduled to take place on April 11-13.
He emphasized the growing collaboration between Kyiv and Ankara in pursuit of an inclusive and just peace. His remarks came ahead of the fourth Antalya Diplomacy Forum, scheduled to begin under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Türkiye and Ukraine strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties
Sybiha participated in several cultural events in Antalya’s Muratpasa district, where he met with Muratpasa Mayor Umit Uysal and members of the Ukrainian community.
Together, they planted a plane tree in the Ukraine Culture Park as a symbol of peace.
“I spoke with our community leaders and thanked them for being a strong and proactive force that supports our efforts and strengthens our bilateral ties,” Sybiha said on X.
Later, he joined Antalya Metropolitan Mayor Muhittin Bocek at the opening of a “Ukraine Book Corner” at the Dogan Hizlan Library and visited an art exhibition at the Ataturk Cultural Center, featuring works by Ukrainian children.
He also announced giving an award to the Kerem Unsal, head of Alacati Tourism Association on his social media post X and said, ” Today, I awarded President of Alacati Tourism Association Kerem Unsal with our special ‘Amber Heart’ award for his outstanding support for our people. I appreciate his ‘Bridge of Hope’ project for Ukrainian kids from the Sumy region and other important humanitarian efforts.”
Sybiha: Türkiye and Ukraine share common values
Speaking at the event, Sybiha highlighted the longstanding friendship between Türkiye and Ukraine, noting the importance of shared values and mutual understanding.
“Türkiye and Ukraine have a bond that goes beyond language,” he said, referencing Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, “We may not understand each other’s words, but our hearts feel the same,” he added.
He added that many Ukrainians now call Antalya home and thanked the Turkish people for their hospitality. “Our joint families and bilingual children symbolize a deeper partnership,” he noted.
Humanitarian efforts continue despite ongoing conflict
Sybiha underlined Ukraine’s commitment to humanitarian initiatives even amid war.
“Despite the conflict, Ukraine continues to provide humanitarian aid, including grain shipments. Thanks to support from Türkiye, we have delivered tons of food to countries such as those in Africa and Gaza,” he said.
He emphasized Ukraine’s determination to achieve peace this year, stating that it must be “inclusive, lasting, and just.”
Türkiye’s support appreciated in peace process
Minister Sybiha also thanked President Erdogan and the people of Türkiye for their continued support. “We are getting closer to an inclusive and just peace with each passing day. That’s why I’m here in Türkiye. I’m sincerely grateful.”
He lastly emphasized that the war has deepened Ukraine’s appreciation for true partnerships and real values. “We are discovering our genuine friends and giving more value to those relationships,” he said.
