Governor-General and Mr. Beckett SC toured 2 of Türkiye's most prominent mosques

During their time in Istanbul, the Governor-General and Mr. Beckett SC toured two of Türkiye's most prominent mosques—historical landmarks that represent over a millennium of faith and heritage.

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, commonly known as the 'Blue Mosque,' along with the Hagia Sophia, continues to function as places of worship for Muslims while also attracting millions of visitors from various faiths. These remarkable sites stand as stunning reminders of Türkiye's diverse and rich cultural legacy. Their Excellencies also engaged with business leaders, including Steven Young from the Türkiye-Australia Business Council and Özlem Salihoğlu from Turkish Airlines, who are dedicated to enhancing the economic relationship between Australia and Türkiye. The discussions revolved around collaborative opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism, as well as the prospects for increased trade and investment between the two countries. Furthermore, during their visit, the Governor-General and Mr. Beckett SC had the chance to immerse themselves in Istanbul's vibrant cultural landscape, which included a trip to the lively Grand Bazaar, where they enjoyed a traditional Turkish coffee ceremony and observed local crafts.

They also participated in a reception at the Australian Consulate-General, where they interacted with Australian expatriates residing in Istanbul and Turkish nationals connected to Australia. The people of Istanbul extended a warm welcome to Their Excellencies, eager to share insights about their city's rich history, remarkable architecture, and renowned hospitality.

The Governor-General and Mr. Beckett SC conveyed their appreciation to the Turkish authorities and the citizens of Istanbul for their gracious reception and hospitality. They expressed gratitude to all those in Istanbul who took the time to meet and showcase their city. The experiences from this visit will surely remain with Their Excellencies for years to come, serving as a testament to the enduring friendship between Australia and Türkiye.