Story by ZBC Reporter
ZIMBABWE has offered support to the people of Turkey after a series of earthquakes that hit the southern parts of the European country in February this year.
With post-earthquake rebuilding efforts on course, Zimbabwe is ready to play its part in assisting the people of Turkey to restore normalcy in affected areas.
This was confirmed by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador in Turkey, Mr Alfred Mutiwazuka when he visited one of the affected provinces, Kahramanmaraş this Tuesday ahead of the International Expo 2023 to be held in the province as part of Turkey’s efforts to attract international goodwill and investments towards rebuilding efforts.
“After the great natural disaster, I admire that your people remain in such great trust. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan clearly expressed his views on the reconstruction of the cities affected by the earthquake. The purpose of our visit to this beautiful city is to see your city and to be informed about the restructuring process. As Zimbabwe, our government and people are ready to offer all their support regarding the rebuilding of your city. Our participation in EXPO 2023 can be seen as one of these supports. During the EXPO process, our companies and government officials will be here to offer their support. On this occasion, we hope to improve our economic relations with companies in Turkiye. We will mobilise our teams for you, especially to relieve the pain of earthquakes,” he said.
The Mayor of Onikisubat, Mr Hanefi Mahçiçek held a meeting with the Zimbabwean Embassy officials where he emphasised the importance of the expo towards rebuilding towns and cities affected by the earthquake.
“Today, we exchanged information about EXPO 2023 with the Ambassador. We told them that EXPO 2023 is important in terms of rehabilitating our city and reviving its social life after the earthquake disaster and that it will open on August 12. We also showed them our EXPO 2023 exhibition area. We saw the works on site and then we visited our Chamber of Commerce and Industry. We had mutual consultations on how we can improve our cooperation and work much better. Our Ambassador Erdoğan Kök, appointed by our President, has a great contribution to these works. I thank them for their work,” noted Mr Hanefi.
International EXPO 2023 which kicks off on the 12th of August has gained traction after the earthquake and the focus will be on social, cultural, and economic gains.
Over 30 countries are expected to attend the Expo.
