SPEECH BY MR MEVLÜT ÇAVUŞOĞLU,
PRESIDENT OF THE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY,
ON THE OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION « ANKARA CITY »

(Strasbourg, Tuesday 26 January 2010, 13h00, CM Lobby)

I would like to thank the Mayor of Ankara, Mr. Melih Gökçek and his delegation for bringing Ankara City to the Council of Europe. Just a few months back, my predecessor and a large delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe visited this pulsating city to reward its municipality and all its citizens with the great honour of receiving the “EUROPE PRIZE 2009”.

There is no doubt that Ankara has put in enormous efforts to qualify for this prize. On its way to receiving the Europe Prize, Ankara obtained the Flag of Honour in 2001 and the Plaque of Honour in 2003. The head of decision-making during the time that all three prizes were awarded was Mr. Melih Gökçek, a man who has my deepest respect. During his 8 years in office, he has brought change which has increased the average standard of living and heightened the level of modernity within and around Ankara city. Most recently, I refer to the Dikman Valley project. Most recent developments deserve further appreciation, as Ankara not only works within its city limits, but shows great care for environmentally friendly progress putting important focus on the cooperation needed between Council of Europe member states for the small steps of everyone of us to have a big effect.

The administration of Ankara with the support of its citizens has shown great determination in their efforts to lead by example, and act as a role model for other European cities in the ongoing mission of bringing greater unity to Europe.

The Council of Europe believes that Human Rights must comprise the basic needs of our citizens. Social and economic rights: the right to a decent life, to work, to schooling, to health. I find it very positive that these values have been put at the heart of Ankara’s development plans.

Among other initiatives, Ankara has established 40 twinnings, bringing numerous benefits, in particular to the young population of Ankara by giving them the opportunity to have exchanges with other European member states, whether it is through school and education or sport clubs and associations.

I like to think, that in some small way, bringing a part of Ankara City all the way to Strasbourg, is another declaration of Ankara’s commitment to the Council of Europe, and also a sign of gratitude towards this multi-way beneficial relationship.

I like to think that Ankara is here today to share with us the joy and appreciation of being recognized for its hard work, and the Council of Europe and I welcome this exhibition on Ankara with pleasure and interest. I am sure that it will bring greater insight into who and what the city of Ankara represents. Let us reflect whilst studying these exhibits of Ankara, and value the symbolism of our common goals for the future.