Diplomatic Cable | France

[Jay]

Dışişleri Bakanlığı Ministry of Foreign Affairs​

AUTHENTIC COMMUNIQUE OF THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Security Clearance: Secure and Encrypted ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA​

[Recipient]: Office of the Prime Minister, France < Dutchy > [Sender]: Office of the Prime Minister, Türkiye <BaşbakanlıkOfisi@tr.gov > [Subject]: Confidential // Letter of Salutations

Your Excellency, On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Türkiye, I extend to you our warmest congratulations upon the restoration of democracy in France and your assumption of office. The reawakening of France’s republican spirit marks not only a historic renewal for your nation, but also a moment of hope for Europe and the world. Türkiye has long held that France, with its deep traditions of liberty, equality, and fraternity, carries a unique responsibility in serving as both arsenal and bedrock of democracy for our continent. At a time when Europe faces mounting trials from the lingering effect of the crisis in Italy, the conflict between Romania and Moldova, and the broader currents of instability across the globe, we must together summon the strength to ensure Europe’s independence, stability, and peace. Only through such resolve can we enable the prosperity our citizens demand and deserve. Our two nations share a bond forged in sacrifice and renewal. Türkiye, in shaking off totalitarian communist rule, and France, in its overthrow of a despotic monarchy, each reclaimed the democratic inheritance of our peoples. This kinship of struggle endows us with a special duty to lead, to rebuild our continent, and to safeguard the seas that unite rather than divide us. As my government undertakes the arduous task of overcoming economic crisis, we remain committed to fostering a community of nations dedicated to the preservation of Europe’s stability and growth. Within this vision, we see France as a vital partner with whom we must restore the historical ties that once bound us so closely. Moreover, we look toward the Mediterranean, where Türkiye, France, Spain, and Egypt together can lay the foundation for a community of freedom in movement, capital, and services. Such a partnership would unlock untold potential, opening an era of shared prosperity and peace for our peoples. I extend to you and to your government my sincere wishes for success in the noble task before you. It would be my honor to welcome you to Ankara at your earliest convenience, for a working visit that may begin the path toward a renewed and enduring partnership between France and Türkiye. With the assurances of my highest consideration, Kindest regards, Ayşe Çiller Prime Minister Türkiye

 

[Dutchy]

HÔTEL MATIGNON
BUREAU DU PREMIER MINISTRE​

PRIVATE

Ayşe Çiller
Prime Minister
Republic of Türkiye

Paris, March 2007​

Your Excellency, Madam Prime Minister,

On behalf of President Valérian, the Government and people of France, I warmly thank you for your gracious message of congratulations.

France deeply appreciates Türkiye’s words of solidarity at this critical juncture for our nation. Like Türkiye, we have endured the weight of authoritarian rule, and like Türkiye, we have reclaimed the democratic spirit of our people through determination. This kinship binds our two nations in a common responsibility to promote democracy, liberty and equality. France shares Türkiye’s conviction that it falls to us, as partners, to help shape a Europe defined by peace, sovereignty, and shared prosperity.

On that note, your vision for greater cooperation across the Mediterranean is one that France welcomes with interest. The idea of fostering deeper ties policy areas which are mutually beneficial holds great promise. Such an initiative could indeed serve as a foundation for renewed peace and prosperity in the region.

Therefore, I accept with gratitude your kind invitation to Ankara and would be honoured to engage in a working visit at the earliest opportunity. I shall have my office communicate the date and travel arrangements.

May our reborn republics stand as a testament to the enduring strength of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Yours sincerely,

Nathalie Lyon
Prime Minister​

Digital Diplomatic Correspondence​

Jay

 

[Jay]

Dışişleri Bakanlığı Ministry of Foreign Affairs​

AUTHENTIC COMMUNIQUE OF THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Security Clearance: Secure and Encrypted ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA​

[Recipient]: Office of the Prime Minister, France < Dutchy > [Sender]: Office of the Prime Minister, Türkiye <BaşbakanlıkOfisi@tr.gov > [Subject]: Confidential // Letter of Salutations

Your Excellency, Madame Prime Minister, I extend my sincere gratitude for your gracious letter. It is with great pleasure that we welcome your decision to undertake a working visit to Ankara, which we regard as a significant opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations. Türkiye is eager to enhance bilateral ties with France, guided by our shared commitment to democracy, liberty, and sovereignty. Your forthcoming visit offers a valuable occasion to begin preliminary discussions on several areas of mutual interest, including the establishment of the League of Mediterranean States, the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement, the deepening of security cooperation, and the initiation of joint maritime patrols across the Mediterranean. We are confident that through these steps, Türkiye and France can chart a new course of collaboration that contributes to the stability and prosperity of our region, while also serving as an example of the enduring strength of our shared values. With the assurances of my highest consideration, Kindest regards, Ayşe Çiller Prime Minister Türkiye

SECURED & ENCRYPTED ATTACHMENT ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA Proposed Agenda for Working Visit of H.E. Ms. Lyon​

Day 1 – Arrival and Opening Engagements (Ankara) Arrival at Esenboğa Airport – Received by senior Turkish officials. Courtesy Meeting at the Prime Ministry – Initial private conversation between the two prime ministers. Working Session I: League of Mediterranean States League of Mediterranean States – initial framework and guiding principles. Trade & Economic Zone Free Movement Security Cooperation Structure Bilateral cooperation priorities for Europe and the Mediterranean. Working Session II: Political Dialogue Situation in Italy & rise of a communist government Cultural Event: Evening visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Private Dinner – Small, informal dinner with Turkish and French delegations. Day 2 – Core Working Sessions (Ankara) Working Session III: Economic & Trade Cooperation Launch of exploratory talks toward a Free Trade Agreement. Expanding bilateral trade, industrial collaboration, and investment opportunities. Working Lunch with Ministers of Trade and Finance. Working Session IV: Security & Defense Counterterrorism and intelligence-sharing. Proposal for joint maritime patrols in the Mediterranean. Defense industry cooperation. Dinner at the Prime Minister’s Residence (Çankaya Mansion) Formal meal hosted by Prime Minister Çiller in honor of Prime Minister Lyon. Remarks by both leaders; emphasis on partnership and Mediterranean cooperation. Day 3 – Broader Engagement and Departure (Ankara & Cultural Program) Business Roundtable – Meeting with select Turkish and French business leaders to explore trade and investment. Visit to Middle East Technical University (METU) – Symbolic engagement with students and academics; discussion of educational exchanges and scientific cooperation. Cultural Visit: Guided tour of Cappadocia (optional half-day excursion, depending on scheduling), highlighting Türkiye’s cultural richness and shared heritage of the Mediterranean world. Closing Session & Joint Statement – Review of discussions, agreement to establish working groups on trade, security, and Mediterranean cooperation. Departure Ceremony – farewell at Esenboğa Airport.

 

[Dutchy]

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From: Private Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic, France
To: Office of the Prime Minister, Türkiye
Date: April 2007
Subject: Proposed Agenda for Working Visit of H.E. Ms. Lyon
Security: Standard encryption (TLS)

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To whom it may concern,

The Prime Minister wishes to extend her sincere appreciation for Ms. Çiller’s most recent letter and has carefully reviewed the proposed agenda for the forthcoming working visit. Prime Minister Lyon has instructed me to liaise with your office in order to coordinate the final details of the agenda.

For ease of reference, please find below the composition of the French delegation, as well as suggested amendments to the proposed schedule:

French delegation:

• Nathalie Lyon, Prime Minister
• Benjamin Gaillard, State Secretary for Foreign Trade
• Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of France in Ankara
• Defence Attaché, Embassy of France in Ankara

Suggested amendments to the schedule;

• Removal of exploratory talks on a Free Trade Agreement. Prime Minister believes it premature to open discussions on a comprehensive free trade agreement at this stage, given that the foundations of the bilateral relationship between our governments must first be established.
• Adjustment of the level of discussion during the working lunch. As the French delegation will include the State Secretary for Foreign Trade.
• Modification of the third day’s activities. It is suggested that the activities planned for Day 3 be struck, with the issuance of the joint statement moved forward to the conclusion of Day 2.

The Prime Minister greatly values the constructive spirit with which this programme is being developed and looks forward to a fruitful exchange with Ms. Çiller and her colleagues, laying the groundwork for a deeper and more structured partnership between France and Türkiye

With regard to travel arrangements, the French delegation will make use of a French Air and Space Forces Dassault Falcon 7X for the flight. On board will be the Prime Minister and the State Secretary for Foreign Trade, accompanied by their respective political aides and two officers of the Protection Service.

The Chargé d’Affaires and the Defence Attaché will be present at the airport to receive the delegation and, we hope, may be included as part of the official reception party.

We would kindly request that your government provide us with details of the proposed accommodations and additional security measures to be put in place for the visit. In particular, we ask for the necessary authorisation for the French protection officers to carry their sidearms while accompanying the Prime Minister during her stay.

Yours sincerely,

Isabelle Gautier
Secretary-General
Office of the Prime Minister
Sixth French Republic

This email and any accompanying documents are intended exclusively for the designated recipient(s) and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, or legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please inform the sender immediately and permanently delete this message from your system. Any unauthorized access, reproduction, distribution, or use of this communication is strictly prohibited.

Jay

 

[Jay]

Dışişleri Bakanlığı Ministry of Foreign Affairs​

AUTHENTIC COMMUNIQUE OF THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Security Clearance: Secure and Encrypted ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA​

[Recipient]: Office of the Prime Minister, France < Dutchy > [Sender]: Office of the Prime Minister, Türkiye <BaşbakanlıkOfisi@tr.gov > [Subject]: Confidential // Letter of Salutations

Dear Ms. Gautier, The Office of Her Excellency the Prime Minister has received your proposed changes to the agenda for the planned working visit. We welcome the inclusion of the members of the French Embassy in Ankara and the Secretary of State for Foreign Trade. The changes have been made accordingly to the guest list and the agenda. Regarding the proposal to remove exploratory talks, it is our belief that exploratory talks are not harmful, irrespective of the stage of our bilateral relations. From our perspective, the exploratory talks would include: An overview of the current trade and economic relationship An overview of the important segments of both our economies A roadmap of the next steps necessary to allow formal talks to begin; including political, economic, and social conditions Even if it is a modest conversation, the Prime Minister would like to demonstrate our intention to work towards a trade agreement with France. In the interest of brevity, given the desire to shorten the trip to a two-day working visit, Her Excellency the Prime Minister has proposed cancelling the formal dinner and instead ending the working visit after the joint statement. The Prime Minister is instead willing to host the Prime Minister for light refreshments before she departs after the joint statement is issued. Her Excellency shares Ms. Lyon's enthusiasm and hopes that constructive dialogues will help bring forward the potential for long-lasting and capable Turkish-French relations. Accompanying this email will be an email from the Turkish Foreign Dignitary Security Unit regarding accommodations and security arrangements. Lastly, please find the changes made in the attached updated agenda. With the assurances of my highest consideration, Regards, Can Yaman Chief Secretary for the Prime Minister Türkiye

SECURED & ENCRYPTED ATTACHMENT ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA UPDATED AGENDA WORKING VISIT​

Day 1 – Arrival and Opening Engagements (Ankara) Arrival at Esenboğa Airport – Received by senior Turkish officials. Courtesy Meeting at the Prime Ministry – Initial private conversation between the two prime ministers. Working Session I: League of Mediterranean States League of Mediterranean States – initial framework and guiding principles. Trade & Economic Zone Free Movement Security Cooperation Structure Bilateral cooperation priorities for Europe and the Mediterranean. Working Session II: Political Dialogue Situation in Italy & rise of a communist government Cultural Event: Evening visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Private Dinner – Small, informal dinner with Turkish and French delegations. Day 2 – Core Working Sessions (Ankara) Working Session III: Economic & Trade Cooperation Discussing the framework for bilateral trade, industrial collaboration, and investment opportunities. Working Lunch with Ministers of Trade. Working Session IV: Security & Defense Counterterrorism and intelligence-sharing. Proposal for joint maritime patrols in the Mediterranean. Closing Session & Joint Statement – Review of discussions, agreement to establish working groups on trade, security, and Mediterranean cooperation. Departure with a light reception at the Prime Minister’s Residence

 

[Jay]

Dışişleri Bakanlığı Ministry of Foreign Affairs​

AUTHENTIC COMMUNIQUE OF THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Security Clearance: Secure and Encrypted ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA​

[Recipient]: Office of the Prime Minister, France < Dutchy > [Sender]: Turkish National Police <ParlamenterveDiplomatikKoruma@pol.tr.gov >[Subject]: Confidential // Security and Accommodation Arrangements for the Visit of Ms. Lyon

Dear Ms. Gautier, I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your communication regarding the forthcoming visit of the Prime Minister of the French Republic, H.E. Nathalie Lyon, and her accompanying delegation. We extend our utmost consideration to the distinguished visitors and assure you that the Turkish National Police, in coordination with the relevant state authorities, is fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of the delegation throughout their stay in the Republic of Türkiye. With regard to accommodation, two options have been prepared in consultation with the Presidency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Çankaya Palace – Arrangements have been made for lodging within the Çankaya Palace compound. This option provides the highest degree of security, as the premises are under the constant protection of the Police Office and Gendarmerie units. Exclusive quarters within the Palace will be reserved for the Prime Minister and her delegation, ensuring both discretion and safety. Vivaldi Park Hotel – As an alternative, the delegation may be lodged at the Vivaldi Park Hotel. In this case, security will be provided by the Turkish National Police, with measures in place for both exterior and interior protection of the hotel. In accordance with standard protocol, the French Protection Service officers will be granted responsibility for floor-level security in direct proximity to the Prime Minister. Regarding your request for authorisation for the French Protection Service officers to carry sidearms during the visit, we confirm that, subject to standard formalities and registration with the Ministry of Interior, such authorisation will be granted for the two designated officers. Within the Çankaya Palace, outside of the lodging quarters, the Protection Service officers will be required to store their weapons inside secured safes. Please be assured that the Turkish National Police and of its professionalism. Our intention is to provide security arrangements commensurate with the high dignity of the Prime Minister’s office, while maintaining the efficiency and discretion required for the visit. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration. Respectfully, Erdener Acar Director-General Foreign Dignitary Security Unit Turkish National Police

 

[Dutchy]

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From: Private Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic, France
To: Office of the Prime Minister, Türkiye
CC: Turkish National Police
Date: April 2007
Subject: Proposed Agenda for Working Visit of H.E. Ms. Lyon
Classification: CONFIDENTIAL
Security: Standard encryption (TLS)

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Dear Mr Yaman,

Thank you for the adjustments you have made to the agenda.

With regard to the meeting on trade, I fear there may have been a small misunderstanding. The position I aimed to explain is that we deem it premature to engage in discussions on a comprehensive free trade agreement at this stage. That said, we are fully supportive of talks focused on expanding bilateral trade, fostering industrial collaboration, and exploring investment opportunities. In this light, your adjustment to Working Session III: Economic & Trade Cooperation is entirely acceptable.

On the matter of accommodation, the Prime Minister agrees that Çankaya Palace is the most suitable option from a security standpoint. We are further grateful for the authorisations granted to our Protection Service, and we acknowledge the limitations placed upon the carrying of their sidearms.

As the agenda has now been settled, it seems appropriate to agree upon the date of the visit. I would like to propose 1 May as the day of arrival. May I ask whether this is agreeable to your side?

Yours sincerely,

Isabelle Gautier
Secretary-General
Office of the Prime Minister
Sixth French Republic

This email and any accompanying documents are intended exclusively for the designated recipient(s) and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, or legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please inform the sender immediately and permanently delete this message from your system. Any unauthorized access, reproduction, distribution, or use of this communication is strictly prohibited.

Jay

 

[Jay]

Dışişleri Bakanlığı Ministry of Foreign Affairs​

AUTHENTIC COMMUNIQUE OF THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS Security Clearance: Secure and Encrypted ŞİFRELEME KORUMASI: KAPLUĞA​

[Recipient]: Office of the Prime Minister, France < Dutchy > [Sender]: Office of the Prime Minister, Türkiye <BaşbakanlıkOfisi@tr.gov > [Subject]: Confidential // Letter of Salutations

Dear Ms. Gautier, Thank you for the correction regarding France's positiion on exploratory talks for trade and the clarifications. We welcome this view and hope that the Working Session will prove fruitful to create the necessary conditions for a comprehensive free trade agreement in the future. We have recieved confrmation of your selection of Çankaya Palace and look forward to welcoming you to the Prime Ministry. Regarding the proposed date of May 1, we find it acceptable. The official working visit will be between May first through the second. With the assurances of my highest consideration, Regards, Can Yaman Chief Secretary for the Prime Minister Prime Minister's Office Türkiye

 

[Dutchy]

As the 1st of May drew near, preparations were finalised for the Prime Minister’s first official trip abroad.

On the day of departure, the Prime Minister’s convoy arrived at Vélizy–Villacoublay Air Base, where the vehicles pulled directly to the stand of the designated aircraft. The delegation boarded the French Air and Space Force’s Dassault Falcon 7X, which stood fully fuelled, provisioned, and crewed by a well-rested flight team. A flight plan had been submitted in accordance with international aviation regulations, and once pre-flight checks confirmed all systems were nominal, the aircraft taxied from its stand and departed smoothly into the skies.

At cruising altitude, the flight came under continuous monitoring by the Air Defence and Air Operations Command’s Control & Detection Centre, supported by Ground Master 400 radar systems, ensuring its security en route.

As the Falcon, bearing callsign COTAM 002, neared Turkish airspace, the captain contacted Turkish air traffic control and requested vectors to the designated airport. Upon landing the aircraft taxied to the assigned stand. When cleared, the doors were opened, allowing the two Protective Service officers to disembark first. They liaised with Turkish security personnel and, after confirming the perimeter was secure, signalled for the Prime Minister to disembark.

Descending the short steps of the aircraft, Prime Minister Nathalie Lyon was greeted by the sight of the welcoming delegation. With measured composure, she stepped forward to greet the Turkish representative before turning to exchange warm greetings with the French Chargé d’Affaires and the Defence Attaché. Close behind, State Secretary for Foreign Trade Benjamin Gaillard followed suit, extending his own greetings as the formalities of the arrival began.

Jay

 

[Jay]

With the green light for the summit to begin, the Turks wasted no time getting ready for the working visit. Prime Minister Çiller had the Ministry of Foreign Affairs arrange for visas for all the guests who would be in attendance. The Turkish MİT conducted investigations into Turkish and foreign nationals who had expressed online messages calling for harm to the French Prime Minister. None of these check-ins would produce any concerns.

At Esenboğa International Airport, the MİT and Turkish Police secured the Private Terminal where their guests were expected to arrive. Around the terminal, Turkish Police special forces in black fatigues and combat gear, along with the Gendarmerie's counter-terrorism units, patrolled the terminal. Supporting them were K9 dogs, which sniffed through packages and around the terminal.

The situation in the Southeast had given Turkish security officers enough to worry about, and the ongoing proliferation of violence globally did not reassure the Turkish Government over the potential for extremists to attack the summit. The MİT would coordinate with the AİAB to ensure all intelligence was being shared on potential attacks.

At Esenboğa International Airport, the welcome delegation would arrive approximately thirty minutes early to meet the French. Along with them would be the French Chargé d’Affaires and the Defence Attaché who'd been invited to the tarmac. Deputy Foreign Minister Yaprak Alp would greet the two French officials with two junior diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The French Prime Minister's aircraft COTAM 00,2 upon entering Turkish airspac,e recieved a confirmation from Turkish air traffic control. The appropriate vectors were given as air traffic controllers coordinated the aircraft's arrival. Upon descending into the private terminal at Esenboğa, Yaprak would leave the terminal to prepare to greet the French. She walked onto the tarmac dressed in a simple dark blue dress and jacket with white pearls around her neck.

The Turkish National Police were preparing the motorcade of armored vehicles to depart the airport as the aircraft began to taxi. When the aircraft finally came to a halt and the airport operators came to take care of the aircraft as a Turkish secrity official informed the French that the motorcade was ready. They'd guided one of the two to the vehicles, allowing the other to inform the Prime Minister it was okay to de-boarded her plane.

As the French delegation stepped out of the airplane, they were welcomed by the cool spring air of Ankara. They would pass through the private terminal. After passing through immigration, the delegation would be guided by Yaprak to the guest lounge, where they are greeted by the small table laden with tea and platters of sweet dates, Turkic pastries and sweets.

As they enjoy their refreshments, their documents were processed and final preparations made at the
Çankaya Residence. With their bags in tow, the French would follow Yaprak out of the airport and where a motorcade waited for them. One sleek Mercedes S-Class sedans flanked by two Chevy Tahoes, trailed by a Renault Trafic, were waiting. When the French were in the vehicle

Traffic had been cleared in anticipation; civilian cars were held back at intersections by rows of uniformed officers, their reflective vests flashing in the crisp light. Motorcycle police, visors down, hovered at the edges of the formation like sentinels on two wheels, ensuring no errant vehicle strayed too close.

The city itself seemed to lean into the spectacle. The late-afternoon sun washed the ochre-hued facades and glass towers in gold. Minarets punctured the skyline at intervals while modern offices casted back glistening lights. Beyond, hills rolled gently toward the horizon, their contours softened as they entered deep into the city.

The Mercedes glided down boulevards past manicured parks where fountains gushed up water. The French delegation, glimpsing through tinted glass, could see crowds gathered at a distance, cordoned by barriers and the steady presence of security personnel. Speed was maintained as the convoy hurried through downtown.

Security was well maintained. The Turkish Police and Gendarmes conducted thorough inspections of each vehicle entering the area near the Çankaya. Snipers were set up on paths that the motorcade would follow. All in the efforts of ensuring that no unforeseen threat would disrupt the French visit.

The imposing walls of the Çankaya and the police presence hung in the background as the motorcade skipped through the security barrier and into the beautiful courtyard. The climb was gentle, as Prime Minister Lyon’s Mercedes crept up the slope within the walls of Çankaya Palace.

The road, smooth and curved like a ribbon through carefully tended grounds, allowed her to see the beautiful contours of the Residence. On either side, pines and cypresses stood tall and immovable, their dark green crowns whispering faintly in the May air. The scent of resin and fresh-cut grass hung lightly, carried on a breeze that rustled the leaves. There were beds of late-blooming roses, clipped hedges, and gravel paths that wandered toward groves and terraces

The convoy slowed as the incline leveled, the sedan’s engine dropping to a purr. Ahead, the cream-colored façade of Çiller’s official office with its gleaming windows finally came into view. A Turkish flag stirred faintly above the portico as the vehicle came to a rolling stop.

Prime Minister Çiller was waiting when Nathalie stepped out. Ayşe extended her hand as Nathalie stepped up before giving her a warm smile. "Welcome to Ankara, Prime Minister. It is a pleasure to welcome you to my home." Per the schedule, Ayşe and Nathalie were expected to have a brief courtesy conversation as their officials set up the meeting hall. In the main meeting hall, the room was being set up and seats arranged for the French diplomats, Secretary of State, and others to rest and chat with Turkish officials present.

While Ayşe and Nathalie met, Turkish security officials would guide one of the French agents and any other French officials to the quarters of the Prime Minister during her stay. The French would be invited to stay in the Glass Mansion and all accomodations necessary being provided. Inside were private safes for the French officers to secure their weapons while within the Palace.

Ayşe invited Nathalie to take a seat next to her as she offered to pour her a glass of Turkish black tea. Ayşe poured the tea into two porcelain cups before offering it to Nathalie. Ayşe took the initiative with the two leaders being alone for this opportunity to get to know each other and speak freely.

“I am truly delighted to have you here,” Ayşe said with a warm smile as she crossed her legs and settled comfortably into the chair. “It is an honor that you have chosen Ankara as your first destination since being duly elected by the French people. Allow me to congratulate you in person, both on your victory and on the French people’s triumph over imperialism and monarchy.” She paused briefly, studying Nathalie to take the measure of her character.

“I believe our two nations, each following similar journeys and bearing the weight of similar histories, have much to achieve together for the betterment of Europe and the Mediterranean alike. I hope you will extend my sincere greetings to President Valérian; I very much hope to have the opportunity to meet him in the future.”

Her voice grew a bit softer. “It is also my hope that these talks will prove fruitful, setting the foundation for a healthy relationship that can shape peace, security, and stability in our region. I trust, Prime Minister, that I may count on you in this endeavor.”

Dutchy