Turkish envoy marks Qatar National Day

By Ali Altunkaya

DOHA (AA) – The Turkish ambassador to Doha on Monday marked Qatar's National Day, congratulating the Gulf country's leadership and the people.

In a video message, Mustafa Goksu congratulated the “brother Qatari people,” especially the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on behalf of the Turkish president and the Turkish nation.

Noting that Doha has always extended a helping hand to victims and has never hesitated to stand by the oppressed, he said Türkiye stands with the government and people of Qatar who support the Palestinians.

“With this understanding, Qatar canceled its National Day celebrations this year in solidarity with our brothers under siege in Gaza,” he added.

Reminding that Ankara and Doha marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, he said bilateral ties have set an example.

Qatar’s National Day is celebrated annually on Dec. 18 to mark the unification of Qatar in 1878 under the leadership of the country's founding father, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani.

This year, celebrations will be limited due to Israeli attacks in Gaza, which have killed more than 18,700 Palestinians besides leaving a trail of destruction.

*Writing by Gozde Bayar