rki.news

Doha: The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in the State of Qatar, led by H.E. Dr. Mustafa Göksu, Ambassador of Türkiye to Qatar, commemorated the 10th anniversary of the defeated July 15, 2016 coup attempt, reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to democracy, national unity and the fight against terrorism while highlighting the strong strategic partnership between Türkiye and Qatar.
The commemorative event was attended by senior Qatari officials, ambassadors, diplomats, members of the diplomatic corps, media representatives and invited guests. Representing Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs were H.E. Al Jawhara Al Obeidan, Director of Asian Affairs; Ms. Iman Al Kharji, Deputy Director of Media and Communication Affairs; and Mr. AbdulAziz Al Jaber from the Media and Communication Affairs Department.
Turkish People Defended Democracy
According to the Embassy’s official briefing, on the night of July 15, 2016, the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO) attempted to overthrow Türkiye’s democratically elected government.
Following the call of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, hundreds of thousands of Turkish citizens took to the streets to defend democracy and constitutional order. The failed coup attempt resulted in the deaths of 253 people and injuries to more than 2,000 others.
The Embassy described the resistance of the Turkish people as a historic example of democratic resilience and national unity, demonstrating the determination of citizens to protect their country’s democratic institutions.
Türkiye’s Fight Against FETO
The Embassy reaffirmed that combating FETO remains one of Türkiye’s highest national priorities. It described FETO as a terrorist network that has operated through various structures, including education, finance, media and civil society.
The Embassy stressed that Türkiye continues its fight against terrorism in all its forms, including FETO, PKK, YPG, DHKP-C and DAESH, while respecting international law and the rule of law. It emphasized the importance of international cooperation, intelligence sharing and preventing terrorist financing.
The Embassy also highlighted the role of the Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF), which operates around 600 educational institutions in 66 countries, providing education to more than 75,000 students.
Qatar’s Support Appreciated
The Embassy expressed deep appreciation to the leadership and people of Qatar for their support during and after the failed coup attempt.
It recalled that His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, was the first foreign leader to contact President Erdoğan on the night of July 15, expressing solidarity with Türkiye.
The Embassy also acknowledged H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, for being among the first senior foreign officials to visit Türkiye following the coup attempt.
The Embassy said Qatar’s principled position reflected the strong brotherly ties between the two countries, which have continued to support each other during major challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the devastating earthquakes in southern Türkiye in 2023.
Strong Türkiye-Qatar Strategic Partnership
The Embassy highlighted the continued expansion of bilateral relations under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Since the establishment of the Supreme Strategic Committee in 2014, Türkiye and Qatar have signed 125 agreements covering defence, trade, investment, education, technology and humanitarian cooperation.
The Embassy emphasized that the close coordination between the two countries reflects a shared vision for regional stability, economic development and stronger international cooperation. Both nations continue to work together on issues of mutual interest through diplomatic, humanitarian and development initiatives.
The Embassy also highlighted defence cooperation, joint military activities under the Qatar–Türkiye Joint Combined Command Forces, and cooperation in advanced technology, including the agreement to jointly launch a satellite into space.
Türkiye’s Economic and Defence Progress
The Embassy stated that Türkiye has emerged stronger economically, technologically and diplomatically despite regional and global challenges.
Türkiye’s exports reached US$273 billion in 2025, while the country welcomed 64 million international visitors, becoming the fourth most visited destination in the world.
The Embassy highlighted Türkiye’s progress in the defence industry, noting that around 80 percent of defence equipment is produced domestically. Türkiye exports defence products to 185 countries and has become one of the world’s leading producers of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), accounting for approximately 65 percent of the global UAV export market.
Recent developments showcased at IDEF 2025 and SAHA 2026 further reflected Türkiye’s advances in defence technology, aerospace and innovation.
Türkiye’s Growing Global Role
The Embassy said Türkiye maintains 264 diplomatic missions worldwide, making it one of the largest diplomatic networks globally.
It highlighted Türkiye’s cooperation with Qatar in promoting peace, humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution in Gaza, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Yemen, while appreciating Qatar’s internationally recognised mediation efforts.
Türkiye is also preparing to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya later this year, reflecting its growing role in international diplomacy.
The Embassy concluded that the legacy of July 15 remains a symbol of the Turkish people’s courage, unity and determination to defend democracy and national sovereignty while continuing to contribute to regional peace, security and sustainable development.