Honorable ASG’s,

Permanent Representatives,

Consul Generals,

Excellencies,

Honorable representative of the Saudi Foreign Ministry Makkah Branch,

Members of the press,

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this special gala dinner on the occasion of the Turkish Cuisine Week which has already become traditional. This year we celebrate the Turkish Cuisine Week for the 4th time across Türkiye and all over the world.

Allow me first to thank Maide Restaurant for hosting this year’s gala dinner.

Turkish Cuisine Week initiative began under the auspices of First Lady Emine Erdoğan. It is dedicated not only to highlighting our culinary traditions but also to sharing our diverse Culture and rich heritage.

This year, under the theme “Classics of Turkish Dishes”, we explore the recipes of our gastronomic culture passed through generations.

Throughout this week, we come together to rediscover the tastes of Turkish Cuisine.

Our menu tonight offers carefully selected meals from traditional Turkish cuisine-which are not only delicious, but also healthy, traditional, and prepared in line with waste-free culinary heritage.

This year’s theme invites us to rediscover the traditional dishes that have shaped Turkish culinary identity for generations. These time-tested recipes, often prepared with seasonal local ingredients, reflect the sustainable and health-conscious spirit of Anatolia’s heritage.
As they are passed down through families, they continue to bring people together and offer a taste of our rich cultural story.

Distinguished Guests,

Traditional dishes are far more than a collection of recipes- they are part of Turkish Culture, bringing people together around the same table in a way that fosters connection and shared understanding. It reflects the warmth of the Turkish hospitality, where different cultures come together at the tables and get to know each other without prejudice.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Before concluding my remarks, I would like to reiterate our appreciation to Maide Restaurant, and its General Manager Mr. Yusuf Güzel, also in his capacity as the representative of the Anatolian Lions Businessmen Association-ASKON in Saudi Arabia, for their generous hospitality and excellent organization of this special event.

Finally, I would like to thank all for joining us tonight. Your presence honors us and reflects the spirit of Islamic solidarity and cooperation we all cherish.

Last but not least, I am also pleased to announce that Maide Restaurant will offer a selection of special Turkish dishes until 27 May.

Please enjoy the evening—and the timeless tastes of Turkish cuisine.

Thank you.