Little made evaluations within the scope of the 108th Anniversary of the Çanakkale Land Wars and the Anzac Day Commemoration Ceremonies.
Emphasizing that Anzac Day is very important for New Zealand, Little said that many New Zealanders came to Dardanelles to fight and stayed here, and that this is very important for families in New Zealand.
Little also stated that this helped to establish a bond between Australia and New Zealand, and this bond has continued to this day.
Pointing out that New Zealand’s connection and experience with Çanakkale is very strong, Little said, “Of course, many strong friendship relations have emerged from many crises, including with Turkey. Our relationship with Turkey is very important to us.” said.
Noting that the relations between Turkey and New Zealand are progressing very well, Little said that they were very welcome when they came to Turkey, especially Çanakkale.
Stating that the relations between the two countries in the commercial, diplomatic and other fields have strengthened, Little said, “We are also evaluating the opportunities where we can work together in the global arena.” used the phrase.
“Türkiye supported New Zealand after Christchurch”
Minister Little noted that one of the events that strengthened relations between New Zealand and Turkey was the tragic mosque attack that took place in Christchurch in 2019.
Reminding that Turkey supported New Zealand at that time and many representatives came to support those affected by the attack, Little said, “One of the most important events in New Zealand every year is Anzac Day. It is a public holiday. It is here (to Çanakkale) to remember the experiences of New Zealanders. and it is a day we come to reflect on our friendship.” he said.
“New Zealand with the Turkish people affected by the earthquake”
Pointing out that New Zealand and Turkey are countries at risk of earthquakes, Andrew Little said that many families who lost their loved ones in the earthquakes on 6 February are on the minds of New Zealanders.
Noting that New Zealand also had tragic experiences from earthquakes, although not at this level, Little said, “We know what tragedy brings, so we think about people in Turkey.” said.
Christchurch
On March 15, 2019, an attacker named Brenton Tarrant carried out a terrorist attack with automatic weapons on Friday prayers at the Nur and Linwood mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.
51 people, including women and children, lost their lives in the attack, and 49 people, including 2 Turkish citizens, were injured.