Palestinian children performing a dance show at the celebration.
Held in partnership with the Palestinian embassy in Cairo and the Al-Wafaa Development Association, the event welcomed over 130 children, including 60 Palestinians, 40 Egyptians, and 30 Turks. Attendees enjoyed a joyful programme with performances, games, and gift distributions.
Turkish ambassador Salih Mutlu Şen welcomes members of the Palestinian families at his residence in Cairo.
Speaking at the event, Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Şen highlighted the historic significance of 23 April, which commemorates both the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey and the establishment of the world’s first official children’s holiday by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1924.
“April 23 is a powerful symbol of national sovereignty and a tribute to our children, who carry the future of our nation,” Ambassador Şen said. “It is the first children’s day in the world and reflects our belief that the destiny of our country lies in the hands of our young generations.”
Turkish Ambassador Salih Mutlu Şen celebrates National Sovereignty and Children’s Day with Turkish, Egyptian, and Palestinian families.
Ambassador Şen extended his congratulations to all children globally, emphasising that this special day, shared by Turkish, Egyptian, and Palestinian children, reminds them of their shared dreams for a peaceful, secure, and prosperous future.
The ambassador also voiced deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, mourning the loss of tens of thousands of children. He hoped that Egypt- and Qatar-led negotiations would soon achieve a ceasefire, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, and end the suffering.
“The participation of Palestinian children in today’s celebration is a testament to the solidarity of Turkish and Egyptian children with their peers in Palestine,” Şen said, adding, “Turkey and Egypt are united in their vision for regional stability and development.”
Ambassador Şen concluded his remarks with a heartfelt message on behalf of Turkey and its leadership, stating:
“All children—regardless of their race, origin, or nationality — deserve joy, education, and a bright future. When children die in Gaza or anywhere in the world, our hearts break. No child should ever have to die. This is not humanity. This is cruelty. This is injustice. Peace and brotherhood cannot be built on death. Our only dream is for Palestinian and Israeli children alike to live in safety, dignity, and peace—in their homes, on their lands, and in their countries.”
He expressed that these sentiments reflect those of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who continues to give high priority to the Palestinian cause.
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