Ankara: Trkiye's first lady Emine Erdogan held a significant meeting with three United Nations officials at the State Guesthouse in the Presidential Complex in Ankara. The meeting included Najat Maalla M'jid, the UN special representative on violence against children, UN Resident Coordinator in Trkiye Babatunde Ahonsi, and UNICEF's Trkiye representative Paolo Marchi.

According to Anadolu Agency, the discussions focused on the Volunteer Ambassadors Project, an initiative launched by Erdogan in 2012, which aims to provide children without family care in Trkiye with a nurturing home environment. Paolo Marchi commended Erdogan's leadership in Trkiye and globally, particularly in her efforts to protect children.

The meeting also addressed various activities and explored potential cooperation opportunities. Trkiye's Family and Social Services Minister Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas was present during these discussions. Following the meeting, Erdogan shared on X that the discussions emphasized strengthening international collaboration to prevent violence against children and enhancing protective mechanisms.

Erdogan highlighted the importance of expanding the foster care system globally through the Volunteer Ambassadors Project. She emphasized the shared consensus on developing systems in every country to ensure children grow up healthy and safe under state protection while also integrating them into family environments.

Furthermore, the discussions included the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the necessary steps to safeguard children there. Erdogan stated the importance of being advocates for children and ensuring their peaceful and hopeful futures. She expressed hope that the cooperation and solidarity established in this meeting would continue to grow.