How many treaties do you think have been negotiated within these walls? This is the T.C. Dışişleri Bakanlığı. It is Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This building stands as a testament to Turkey’s commitment to international relations.
The T.C. Dışişleri Bakanlığı plays a vital role. It conducts Turkey’s foreign relations. It supports Turkish citizens abroad. The ministry also promotes Turkish culture. It implements Turkish foreign policy. This aligns with the country’s national interests.
Established on May 2 1920 the ministry has a rich history. It was created during the Turkish War of Independence. The ministry administers diplomatic missions. It negotiates international treaties. It represents Turkey at the United Nations.
The T.C. Dışişleri Bakanlığı is headquartered here in Ankara. It maintains over 200 missions abroad. These include embassies and consulates general. Hakan Fidan is the current Minister of Foreign Affairs. He assumed the position on June 3 2023.
The Foreign Service of the Republic of Türkiye has deep roots. It is founded on the traditions of Ottoman diplomacy. This commanding diplomatic tradition helped the Ottoman Empire reign over a vast area for centuries.
Before the 19th century foreign affairs were handled by the “Reis-ül Küttap” or Head Secretary. In 1793 the first permanent Embassy was established in London. Yusuf Agah Efendi was appointed as the first Ottoman Ambassador.
In 1836 the “Reis-ül Küttap” was upgraded to a Ministry. Yozgatlı Akif Efendi became the first Minister of Foreign Affairs. After the Turkish Republic was proclaimed in 1923 the Ministry began to develop its structure.
The ministry’s organization includes various departments. These departments handle political economic and EU affairs. They also manage multilateral political issues and consular services. Cultural affairs protocol and public diplomacy are also key functions.
The ministry has faced challenges. In the 1970s Turkish officials and their families were targeted by Armenian terrorist organizations. These assassinations claimed the lives of 34 officials including five Ambassadors.
Today the T.C. Dışişleri Bakanlığı operates globally. It has 253 missions around the world. These missions include embassies permanent representations and consulates general. The Turkish Foreign Service has nearly 1800 diplomats. They work to promote Turkey’s international relations and contribute to peace and stability. Since 1989, the Ministry awards people and organizations that have demonstrated distinguished services.