ANKARA

The Spanish Embassy in Türkiye hosted a captivating concert in the capital Ankara on Thursday in honor of Spain's assumption of the presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The event, which took place at the Bilkent concert hall, marked the commencement of Spain's leadership of the council for the second half of 2023, following the rotational system among the EU’s 27 member states.

Addressing the attendees before the concert, Spain's Ambassador Francisco Javier Hergueta Garnica said "Spain has always been a very strong supporter of Türkiye's entrance into the European Union."

Regardless of political views, it is a policy that has been embraced by all Spanish governments.

Türkiye and the Turkish government are well aware that Spain is "a loyal and honest friend," he said, emphasizing that during Spain's EU Council presidency, they hope to foster this closeness and facilitate Türkiye's progress towards EU membership, aiming for a proactive and positive agenda during this period.

Furthermore, stressing the significance of the bilateral relations, Mehmet Kemal Bozay, Türkiye's Deputy Foreign Minister and Director for EU Affairs, highlighted that Ankara and Madrid share a strong bond and cooperate closely on international platforms.

He expressed confidence that during Spain's presidency, Türkiye's relations with the EU will receive a special boost, given Spain's role as a trusted friend and ally.

Bozay also conveyed Türkiye's gratitude for Spain's supportive approach towards its candidacy for the EU.

During the concert, the highlight of the evening was an enchanting performance by the renowned Limak Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of esteemed Spanish conductor Angel Gil-Ordoñez.

The orchestra mesmerized the audience with a diverse repertoire, showcasing the brilliance of both Turkish and Spanish compositions.

The concert program featured iconic pieces including Ferit Tuzun's Cayda Cira, Manuel de Falla's El Amor Brujo and Joaquin Turina's Danzas Fantasticas.

Adding a touch of traditional Spanish flamenco music, Cantaora (flamenco soloist) Rocio Bazan showcased her enchanting vocals, accompanied by the mesmerizing guitar skills of Hugo Toscano.