Istanbul: The Consulate General of China in Istanbul, alongside several Turkish non-governmental organizations and business leaders, marked the Trkiye-China friendship by planting 10,000 saplings in Istanbul. This event was held on Sunday as a symbol of the enduring relationship between the two nations and their shared commitment to achieving net-zero carbon targets by 2050 through environmental diplomacy. According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Consul General Wei Xiaodong emphasized that the sapling planting event reflects the long-term friendship and shared environmental goals of the two countries. Wei highlighted the importance both nations place on green development, expressing optimism about future collaborations in this sector. He noted that such cooperation would not only enhance diplomatic relations but also contribute positively to global sustainability efforts. Wei further underscored the strategic significance of the Arnavutkoy forest area near Istanbul Airport, where the saplings were planted. He p ointed out the relevance of addressing aviation-related fossil fuel consumption and praised the initiative as a proactive measure in this regard. Mustafa Ciftci, vice president of the Green Trkiye Foresters Association, a partner in the planting effort, stressed the role of public-interest activities in achieving Trkiye's sustainability targets. He urged companies to engage in annual sapling planting initiatives to align with the 2050 carbon emission goals established in the Green Deal. Ciftci also expressed gratitude to the Regional Directorate of Forestry for their support in providing the planting area. The event was well-received by local authorities, with Kemal Aygenli, deputy mayor of Arnavutkoy Municipality, welcoming the afforestation initiative. Additionally, Ganimet Khasia, president of the China Hubei Region Businessmen Association, expressed hope that the Trkiye-China relations would be continuously strengthened through acts of friendship, environmental commitment, and mutual respect.