MOLDPRES REPORT // Friendship, respect, partnership: 102 years since proclamation of the Republic of Turkey celebrated in Chisinau

The Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in the Republic of Moldova marked 102 years since the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on October 29 with an official reception that brought together diplomats, representatives of Moldovan authorities, business community members, and international partners. The event was not only a celebration of Turkey's National Day but also an opportunity to reaffirm the deep cooperation ties between Chisinau and Ankara.

Cooperation, Friendship, and Common Values

Opening the reception, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Chisinau, His Excellency Uygar Mustafa Sertel reviewed the main areas of bilateral cooperation, highlighting the importance of dialogue and strategic partnership between the two countries.

The Turkish diplomat mentioned projects implemented in the Republic of Moldova with the support of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) — particularly in education, culture, local development, and infrastructure — and spoke of new prospects for cooperation in the commercial-economic, tourism, and cultural sectors.


“Turkey will continue to support the Republic of Moldova in its development and modernization efforts. The friendship between our peoples is genuine, based on respect, trust, and sincere collaboration,” stressed Ambassador Uygar Mustafa Sertel, also wishing success to the new Parliament and future Government of Chisinau.


Message from the Government of the Republic of Moldova

On behalf of Chisinau authorities, acting Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development, congratulated the Turkish people and Government, wishing peace, prosperity, and sustainable progress.


“The Republic of Moldova and the Republic of Turkey are bound by a solid strategic partnership and common values. The Free Trade Agreement, Turkish investments, and cooperation in regional development and agriculture have had a visible impact on modernizing infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities for our citizens,” stated Vladimir Bolea.


The official reiterated the gratitude of the Moldovan Government for the constant support provided by Turkey, including in supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova.

A Stronger Relationship

For over three decades, the Republic of Moldova and the Republic of Turkey have developed a partnership based on friendship, trust, and strategic cooperation. Turkey was among the first countries to recognize the independence of the Republic of Moldova in 1991, and official diplomatic ties were established in February 1992. Since then, political dialogue has intensified through high-level visits, bilateral agreements, and joint projects in various fields.

Turkey is one of the main economic partners of the Republic of Moldova, with an annual trade volume of over 700 million dollars and more than a thousand Turkish-owned companies active in the country. Cooperation is also supported by the Free Trade Agreement, which came into force in 2016, stimulating investments and exports.

Through the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), Turkey consistently contributes to the modernization of local infrastructure, education and health institutions, including in the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia. At the same time, cultural and educational exchanges — through scholarships, academic programs, and cultural projects — strengthen the closeness between the two peoples.

At a multilateral level, the Republic of Moldova and Turkey actively collaborate within the UN, OSCE, BSEC, and the Turkic Council, where Moldova holds observer status. Cooperation in defense and security, including through NATO's “Partnership for Peace” programs, adds a strategic dimension to this relationship.

Today Moldova-Turkey partnership continues to develop through economic, educational, and cultural projects aimed at strengthening regional stability and bringing direct benefits to the citizens of both countries.

102 Years Since the Formation of the Republic of Turkey

The Republic of Turkey was proclaimed on October 29, 1923, marking the transition from the Ottoman Empire to a modern, sovereign, secular state under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk — the founding father of the Turkish nation. This transformation represented one of the most profound political and social reforms of the 20th century.

The new republic was founded on the principles of modernization, secularism, and national sovereignty. Atatürk launched a comprehensive reform process involving administrative reorganization, introduction of the Latin alphabet, educational reform, women's emancipation, and economic development.

Over the past 102 years, Turkey has established itself as a regional power and an important player on the international stage, with a diversified economy and a dynamic society. Its geostrategic position, at the intersection of Europe and Asia, has given it a key role in global trade, energy security, and intercultural dialogue.

Today, the Republic of Turkey continues to develop under the principles established by Atatürk — democracy, rule of law, modernity, and respect for national values. October 29, Cumhuriyet Bayramı (Republic Day), is celebrated annually throughout the country and in Turkish communities worldwide as a symbol of unity, progress, and continuity of the Turkish nation.