President Gul of Turkey welcomed Her Majesty The Queen and Prince Philip of the UK Government toTurkey and I received blog
from US Turkish Blogs showing the scene in
Ankara probably a few hours ago. The last State visit by the Queen was in 1971 - 37 years ago!
Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall visited Turkey last year, 2007.
Its a rather splendid occasion and the Queen and Royal Party are together with The President of Turkey President Gul - are walking together on the "red carpet" in Ankara. The Queen signed a book in Ankara which is shown on camera with the words ... for all to read "Honour to pay my respects
to ... Mustafa Kemel Ataturk" (founder of modern Turkey).
The Queen commented that She is proud of Turkey's achievements in contributing to world peace, stability and security in troubled areas of the world.
And the Turkish Government are pleased that The Queen and the Government: Her Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland are supporting Turkey's bid to join E.U. (European Union - full member) - Britain is a full member of the European Union!
President Gul's wife, Mrs. Gul and First Lady of Turkey has defied the ban on wearing the Islamic Headscarf which is banned in public and Government buildings in Turkey ... so I wonder what the public will make of all of that! Turkey is a secular muslim country and has deeply imbedded secular roots.
The parade is conducted to the sound of a great march played by the band! Great viewing and good to see the Heads of States in agreement once in awhile... a successful visit to Turkey .. thanks Turkish blog USA .. keep on working!