Ashraf AboArafe
I included a polished English version suitable for publication:
A Diplomat’s Farewell: Where Gratitude Becomes a Bridge Between Turkey and the Arab World
Turkish Ambassador to Egypt, Salih Mutlu Şen, wrote:
I have officially bid farewell to His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, and His Excellency Ambassador Hossam Zaki, Assistant Secretary-General and Chief of Staff to the Secretary-General.
I am confident that the bonds of friendship and the spirit of cooperation we have built together will continue into the future, even if in different capacities.
His Excellency Ahmed Aboul Gheit made valuable contributions to the revitalization of Turkish–Arab relations. During his tenure, our Minister of Foreign Affairs addressed the Council of the League, and I had the honor of presenting him with my Minister’s letter accrediting me as Türkiye’s Permanent Observer to the League of Arab States. On that occasion, he told me, “Although I was ill, I came from my home to the office specifically to receive this letter,” reflecting the importance he attached to strengthening official Turkish–Arab relations.
Throughout my tenure, the Secretary-General never left a single letter I sent unanswered, consistently demonstrating courtesy, sincerity, and professionalism.
I also came to appreciate his deep interest in the history of the Republic of Türkiye and in the legacy of our Republic’s founder, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. During his visit to Ankara, he was received by the President of the Republic of Türkiye, who places great importance on fostering strong solidarity with the Arab world, particularly regarding the Palestinian cause.
Ambassador Hossam Zaki was always a trusted point of reference for us, thanks to his profound knowledge of the organization, his thorough understanding of regional affairs, his analytical insight, and his close relationships with both member and non-member states.
I extend my heartfelt wishes to both His Excellency the Secretary-General and His Excellency the Assistant Secretary-General for good health, happiness, and continued success in the next chapter of their lives and distinguished careers.
