Ashraf AboArafe
On the joyous first day of Eid Al-Adha, the Turkish Embassy in Cairo became a beacon of solace, unity, and shared humanity, driven by a profound spirit of community. Under the thoughtful guidance of Ambassador Salih Mutlu Şen, the embassy hosted a deeply moving celebration that artfully wove together a tapestry of diverse communities: Turkish citizens residing in Egypt, Egyptian hosts, and, most poignantly, Palestinian families from Gaza.
The gathering brought together 150 Palestinian families, 50 Egyptian families, and numerous Turkish households, making it a true celebration of community. Prominent representatives from the media and a number of celebrated Egyptian artists also graced the occasion, highlighting its social and cultural significance.
As guests entered the beautifully adorned grounds, they were greeted by the embassy staff and fellow attendees with heartfelt embraces and traditional holiday greetings. In keeping with the sacred Eid Al-Adha custom, a traditional Turkish feast was served, centered around Kavurma—sacrificial meat prepared in the authentic, time-honored Turkish culinary tradition. The aroma of Kavurma filled the air, evoking a sense of home and shared tradition. Children’s laughter and lively conversations echoed throughout the venue as guests exchanged stories and greetings, fostering an atmosphere of familial warmth. Further embodying the spirit of Eid generosity, special gifts were distributed to the attendees, ensuring that everyone felt the joy and warmth of the occasion.
This meaningful gathering was meticulously organized by the Turkish Embassy in Cairo, with the generous support of the Turkish Diyanet Foundation (TDV) and in close cooperation with the Embassy of the State of Palestine.
Ambassador Şen’s Message: A Sanctuary of Solace and Solidarity
In his poignant address to the assembled guests, Ambassador Salih Mutlu Şen expressed his profound gratitude and happiness for the opportunity to gather once again with Egyptian and Palestinian families for this auspicious celebration. He emphasized that Eid Al-Adha stands as one of the most sacred duties in Islam—not merely a religious obligation, but a vibrant, living manifestation of solidarity, compassion, and communal sharing.
“This is a day where those with means share their sacrifices with those who cannot, reaching out to neighbors, relatives, and those in need without distinction of color, race, language, or faith,” Ambassador Şen noted with deep conviction. “We are overjoyed to welcome our brothers and sisters from Palestine and Egypt today, sharing in this blessing of giving and standing together in faith and humanity.”
His words resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the embassy’s role not just as a diplomatic mission, but as a community center and a source of comfort for those away from home, particularly the Palestinian families who have faced immense challenges.
Honoring the Sanctuary of the Family: A National and Diplomatic Commitment
Ambassador Şen also drew attention to a beautiful and fitting coincidence: this sacred week in Türkiye coincides with National Family Week. This convergence added a layer of profound meaning to the event, as the embassy sought to offer comfort, solidarity, and a sense of belonging to displaced and grieving Palestinian families, embracing them as an extension of the Turkish diplomatic and cultural family.
Highlighting a shared political and social vision between the leadership of the two nations, the Ambassador noted that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi are both deeply committed to reinforcing the social fabric by supporting and empowering the family structure through robust socioeconomic initiatives.
Looking toward the future and outlining Türkiye’s long-term commitment to family welfare, Ambassador Şen announced a landmark national initiative:
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The Decade of the Family: Under the leadership of President Erdoğan, Türkiye has declared 2026 as the beginning of the “Decade of the Family.“
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Holistic Support: Over the coming week and throughout the next decade, the Turkish state will implement comprehensive measures across all sectors to safeguard and promote the family unit.
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Targeted Welfare: Initiatives will fully address the social and economic needs of mothers, fathers, children, and newlyweds, while providing critical protections to shield them from harmful and misleading ideological currents.
The Ambassador concluded his remarks by extending his warmest congratulations on the occasion of Family Week, wishing that it brings joy, resilience, and blessings to all families present and beyond.
In total, the gathering united nearly 500 guests, turning a diplomatic venue into a vibrant, living home of shared healing, rich culture, and enduring hope. The success of the event underscored Ambassador Şen’s commitment to fostering meaningful, compassionate connections between nations and peoples.
