“Did you know that diplomatic relations between Turkey and France date back centuries?” I ask, setting the stage right here in front of the Embassy of France in Ankara.
The French Ambassador to Turkey is the successor to the French Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. It is a role steeped in history. Our story begins in 1535. Jean de la Forest became the first French Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. This marked the start of a deep-rooted relationship between France and Turkey.
France gained significant privileges within the Ottoman Empire because of the capitulations in 1535. This solidified France’s position as a privileged state. Fast forward to 1721. The Ottoman Empire appointed its first Ambassador to France. His name was Yirmisekiz Mehmet Çelebi.
Now, let’s jump ahead to the 20th century. “The Treaty of Ankara” was signed on October 20, 1921. This treaty forms the basis of Turkey-France bilateral relations. It was signed during the Turkish War of Independence.
The Embassy of France in Ankara itself has a fascinating history. The building we see before us was constructed between 1933 and 1939. Albert Laprade designed it. The embassy is in the Kavaklıdere neighborhood of Çankaya.
Originally, the Palais de France in Istanbul served as the embassy. It remained the seat until its transfer to Ankara in 1922. Even today, the Palais de France remains the ambassador’s residence when they are in Istanbul.
In 1923, the Turkish government promised foreign countries land in Ankara for diplomatic missions. The initial plot offered to the French in 1928 was too small. The following year, adjacent land was purchased from the writer and diplomat Yakup Kadri. By 1937, embassy staff began working from this location.
Inside the Embassy of France, the Salon des Fêtes is particularly noteworthy. This hall is used for winter receptions. It features Louis XV-style furniture. A tapestry by Charles Le Brun depicts a meeting between Louis XIV and Philip IV of Spain.
Since August 16, 2023, Isabelle Dumont has served as the French Ambassador to Turkey. She is the first woman to hold the position.
The Embassy of France in Ankara stands as a symbol of the enduring relationship between France and Turkey. From its historical roots in the Ottoman Empire to its modern-day diplomatic efforts, the embassy has played a vital role in shaping relations between the two countries. As we stand here, we are reminded of the long and complex history that has unfolded within these walls.