16-07-2025
Turkish envoy hosts family dinner for journalists
Ashraf Siddiqui
Demonstrating a distinctive approach to public diplomacy and hospitality, HE Dr Mustafa Goksu, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye to the State of Qatar, recently hosted a special dinner for journalists covering diplomatic affairs, along with their family members at the prestigious Turkish Sazeli Restaurant in The Pearl-Qatar.
What is often a formal, professional engagement was transformed into a warm, family-friendly gathering that brought together Turkish Embassy officials and members of the local press community in a relaxed, personal atmosphere. The initiative underscored the embassy's commitment to cultivating genuine, people-to-people ties that go beyond official interactions.
The Pearl-Qatar, a prestigious state of the art, modern residential island city development near Doha, provided a fitting backdrop for the event. Its sophisticated setting mirrored the spirit of the evening, which aimed to deepen mutual understanding and promote cultural connections between Turkiye and Qatar.
In his address to the guests, Ambassador Dr Mustafa Goksu expressed heartfelt appreciation for the journalists and their families who accepted the invitation.
He emphasised the importance of building sincere, family-level relationships within the host country, noting that the embassy's gesture was not merely a diplomatic formality but came from the heart.
'We are brothers and sisters, living in the same country, so we need to know each other — and that includes getting to know your family members,' Dr Goksu said. 'If there is anything we can do for them, we are ready.'
Acknowledging the demands of diplomatic responsibilities, the ambassador explained that while he wished to organise such gatherings more frequently, official commitments and regional dynamics sometimes made scheduling difficult. He expressed gratitude that everyone was able to come together that evening, and shared his hope to host similar events in the future.
'God willing, we will continue to have such gatherings at Turkish restaurants,' he said. 'The real challenge is work and time, but if there are any shortcomings, please forgive us.'
Dr Goksu also extended special thanks to journalist Ashraf Siddiqui for helping coordinate the event
and ensuring strong participation, praising his efforts in making the evening memorable.
Earlier, Siddiqui spoke on behalf of the attending media professionals and their families, thanking the Turkish ambassador for his thoughtful and unique invitation.
He noted that the evening also offered an opportunity for colleagues' families to meet one another while enjoying renowned Turkish cuisine. Siddiqui expressed appreciation to fellow journalists for enthusiastically accepting the Ambassador's invitation and helping make the gathering a warm, memorable occasion.
This dinner, distinguished by its informal, inclusive approach, reflects Turkiye's commitment to fostering genuine friendship and strong people-to-people ties in Qatar.
By welcoming journalists and their families in such an open, personal setting, Ambassador Goksu and his team demonstrated a style of diplomacy built on trust, shared experiences, and cultural understanding.
