Honorable Mayor of Nijkerk, Mrs. Tinet de Jonge-Ruitenbeek,

Honorary Consul G. of the Republic of Türkiye in Amersfoort, Mr. Titus Kramer,

Hollanda Diyanet Vakfı Başkanı Sayın Servet Tiryaki, Değerli HDV yönetimi,

HDV Nijkerk Yunus Emre Camii Derneği Başkanı Sayın Fevzi Pınarcı, Derneğimizin değerli üyeleri, Kıymetli STK Başkanlarımız,

Distinguished guests,

It is a pleasure for me to be here with you in Nijkerk on the occasion of the Iftar organization by the Turkish Islamic Foundation Netherlands (ISN) Yunus Emre Mosque Association. I sincerely thank them for bringing us together at iftar table and wish you all a peaceful Ramadan.

Ramadan is a time of unity, solidarity and reflection. It is a month where we purify our souls, strengthen our bonds, and experience the joy of sharing and helping one another. What brings us together today is not only fasting, but also our shared values of love, tolerance and fraternity. It is also a time to foster unity and solidarity.

The remarkable journey of the Turkish Dutch community over the past 60 years began after the signing of the Turkish-Dutch Labor Force Agreement of 1964 when the first generation workers started to arrive in the Netherlands. Those forefathers of the Turkish Dutch community, through their dedication and hard work, not only contributed immensely to the development of the Netherlands and the Dutch society, but built a future for their families. Their achievements also serve as a bridge, strengthening the centuries-long friendship and cooperation between Türkiye and the Netherlands.

The name of this mosque, Yunus Emre, is also of great significance in this regard. Yunus Emre is not only an important character in Turkish culture, but also a universal figure of human wisdom. His philosophy of love, peace, and tolerance has inspired generations. His words, “Let us get to know one another, make life easier together,” reflect the very essence of building bridges between cultures and societies.

Similarly, the Turkish community in the Netherlands has embraced these values, integrating harmoniously while preserving their cultural heritage and contributing to the social fabric of the Netherlands.

I also wish to thank Mr Titus Kramer for sponsoring this iftar. Last year we have kindly asked him to represent us here. And this year he is so generous to sponsor today’s iftar. Danke Wel!

On this special evening, I wish you all a blessed Ramadan filled with peace and prosperity. May this holy month bring happiness to all.