Budapest: Trkiye’s first lady Emine Erdogan attended a special event in Budapest to promote a new book by Turkish architect Mehmet Emin Yilmaz, titled “Gul Baba and the Spiritual Heritage of Ottoman Hungary.” Emine Erdogan, who was in Budapest accompanying President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the European Political Community (EPC) summit, was greeted by key figures such as Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Coordinator Elif Turkislamoglu, Gul Baba Foundation’s Deputy Chairman Suat Karakus, and the book’s author Yilmaz.
According to Anadolu Agency, Emine Erdogan visited the Gul Baba Tomb, a site restored in 2018 in partnership with the Hungarian government and TIKA. Yilmaz, the architect behind the restoration, presented his book, published by TIKA, and provided a detailed presentation about its significance. He personally handed a copy to Emine Erdogan during the visit.
In the guestbook at the Gul Baba Tomb, Erdogan expressed her joy at commemorating Gul Baba’s legacy on the 100th anniversary
of the Trkiye-Hungary Friendship Treaty. She highlighted the restoration efforts by TIKA and the establishment of a cultural center at the site, emphasizing that the book enriches the spiritual heritage and strengthens the century-long friendship between the two nations.
Erdogan remarked that cultural wealth grows through shared values, underlining the path taken by Gul Baba as a symbol of friendship. She noted the personal significance of the event and expressed her sentiments towards Hungary, a country she described as friendly and close to her heart.
Engaging with Turkish journalists in Budapest, Erdogan shared her reflections on the enduring brotherhood between Trkiye and Hungary, which is palpable in places rich with history and spirituality. She lauded the Gul Baba Tomb as a testament to shared Ottoman-era values, brought back to life with TIKA’s efforts.
Erdogan also expressed her hopes that Yilmaz’s book will inspire future generations and help forge deeper connections between Trkiye and Hungary, b
uilding on the century-old friendship.