Ashraf AboArafe
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Ambassador of Türkiye to Cairo, Salih Mutlu Şen, extended heartfelt congratulations while reflecting on the profound role of women in both his personal life and the shared historical legacy between Türkiye and Egypt.
In a deeply personal message, Ambassador Şen remembered his late mother with reverence and gratitude. Despite losing her father and then her mother at a young age, she endured a difficult childhood yet managed to build her life with remarkable resilience and determination. Through her strength and devotion, she raised her children and left a lasting example of perseverance and dignity.
The ambassador also expressed sincere appreciation to his wife—the mother of his son—for her unwavering support and sacrifices. He acknowledged her constant encouragement and the essential role she has played in supporting his professional journey and diplomatic service.
Beyond the personal sphere, Ambassador Şen paid tribute to remarkable women whose contributions left deep and enduring marks on the shared Turkish–Egyptian historical heritage, highlighting their social, cultural, and political influence.
Among them was Zeynep Kamil Hanım, the daughter of Muhammad Ali Pasha, founder of modern Egypt. She is widely remembered as a pioneering philanthropist and the founder of the renowned Zeynep Kamil Women and Children’s Hospital in Istanbul, a charitable institution that continues to serve countless families today.
The ambassador also commemorated Princess Emine Ilhami, the mother of Khedive Abbas Hilmi II, who was deeply loved by the Egyptian people for her patriotism and strong opposition to foreign occupation. In Ottoman history, she held a unique distinction as the only woman granted the honorary title of “Pasha” by Sultan Abdulhamid II, earning the historic title Valide Pasha.
Another prominent figure mentioned in the ambassador’s tribute was Princess Kadriye Hussein, the daughter of Sultan Hussein Kamel, the first Sultan of modern Egypt. Princess Kadriye played an important intellectual role in strengthening cultural ties between Egypt and Türkiye. A noted writer, she authored influential works such as Letters from Sacred Ankara and Great Women of Islam. She was also known for her friendship with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and for supporting the Turkish War of Independence through her ideas and writings.
Through his message, Ambassador Şen emphasized that the stories of these remarkable women represent more than historical remembrance; they symbolize resilience, cultural dialogue, and the enduring bonds linking the Turkish and Egyptian peoples.
Concluding his message, the ambassador expressed gratitude and admiration for women across generations, noting that their courage, intellect, and dedication continue to shape societies and strengthen the bridges between nations.
