Ankara: The friendship between the US and Trkiye is currently 'incredibly strong,' Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Ankara Alyce Abdalla said, pointing to the close relationship between the leaders of the two countries.
According to Anadolu Agency, Abdalla made the remarks while visiting Trkiye's southern Hatay province to inspect reconstruction work at the Antakya Greek Orthodox Church, which was destroyed in the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes and whose rebuilding has been supported by the US.
Noting that she began her diplomatic assignment in Trkiye around two weeks ago and that Hatay was the destination of her first visit, Abdalla expressed enthusiasm about her new role in the country. She described Trkiye as 'an extraordinary place to work' and assessed the friendship between the two countries. Abdalla emphasized the positive relationship between US President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, highlighting their historic meeting in Ankara in July during the NATO summit. She expressed excitement about starting her mission in such a conducive diplomatic environment.
Abdalla described the relationship between the two leaders as "incredibly positive" and said it could serve as an example for the broader US-Trkiye bilateral ties. She noted that the mission in Trkiye is committed to ensuring that the strong friendship is reflected in their work, and she aims to engage with as many people and places as possible during her assignment.
Looking ahead, Abdalla mentioned the upcoming centennial of formal diplomatic relations between the United States and the Republic of Trkiye in 2027. She expressed optimism about using the next year to further strengthen the relationship and explore ways to collaborate more effectively.
During her visit, Abdalla also received information about the ongoing efforts to rebuild the Antakya Greek Orthodox Church. The reconstruction work is being carried out by Trkiye's Culture and Tourism Ministry and Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Ministry, with support from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation and the World Monuments Fund.
Abdalla shared her impression of the damage caused by the earthquakes in February 2023, expressing deep admiration for the resilience shown by the people of Hatay. She lauded the community's focus on recovery and rebuilding, describing their spirit as inspiring.
The US Embassy has been actively contributing to recovery efforts by funding emergency stabilization work at St. Paul Church and the Antioch Synagogue. Abdalla reiterated the embassy's commitment to supporting the local community in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes.
In addition to reconstruction efforts, Abdalla highlighted the cooperation between the US and Trkiye in protecting cultural heritage. She noted the renewal of the US-Trkiye Cultural Property Agreement, which facilitates the return of historical artifacts that were illegally taken abroad. Abdalla emphasized the dedication of both countries to ensuring the return of stolen objects to Trkiye, strengthening cultural ties and preserving shared heritage.