Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

- I am honored to be here with you today at this iftar dinner organized by the Corendon Group to support the victims of the recent devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.

- The earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria left behind a trail of destruction, loss, and grief.

- Homes were destroyed, families separated, lives lost. But, in the midst of this darkness, we saw a glimmer of hope as people from all over the world come together to support the victims.

- I would like to extend my thanks to the Corendon Grup for their efforts from the very first day in helping us in dispatch of humanitarian assistance with their airplanes. Among the 84 flights from here to Türkiye, Corendon always plays an important part.

- That is why, I also sincerely thank them for organizing this fundraising campaign. The funds raised here tonight will go to providing shelter and to those who need it most.

- The same thanks go to all walks of the Turkish community. Their efforts are commendable.

- I would also like to express my appreciation for the generosity of the Dutch government and people who showed their traditional generosity and solidarity with Türkiye during this difficult time. Your support and compassion are deeply appreciated.

- Friends in need are friends indeed. Turkish people also have helped the Dutch people in the devastating floods herein 1916, 1953 and 2021. It is not a matter of reciprocity, but we were all there in the past for each other.

- The work is far from over. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, and we will need to continue to work together to rebuild what has been lost.

- We must ensure that those who were affected by the earthquakes are not left behind and that they have access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

- As we come together today to break our fast, let us also remember the importance of solidarity.

- I apologise for not being able to stay long, but there is a similar iftar in the Hague in a few moments where I have to catch the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs.

Thank you.