Erdogan awards ‘Order of the Republic’ to Sheikha Fatima

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of the Republic of Turky has awarded Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,” Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, the Order of the Republic, in recognition of her pioneering efforts in supporting women, family, and childhood causes, as well as her outstanding humanitarian and social contributions regionally and internationally.

The honour was conferred during her visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, in the presence of Emine Erdogan, wife of President Erdogan, and Sheikha Fatima’s accompanying delegation.

Sheikha Fatima is the first female figure to receive this prestigious order, which is granted by the President of Turky upon the recommendation of the Cabinet.

The awarding of the Order of the Republic reflects a high appreciation of Sheikha Fatima’s pioneering initiatives, development, humanitarian, and social projects, which have contributed to building more cohesive and prosperous societies. It also highlights the international recognition of the status of the “Mother of the Nation” and her continuous achievements in empowering people and advancing communities, embodying the values of giving.

During the award ceremony, President Erdogan congratulated Sheikha Fatima on receiving the Order of the Republic, commending her for her outstanding humanitarian contributions and her extensive journey in supporting women, childhood, and humanitarian work.

President Erdogan expressed his great pleasure at Sheikha Fatima’s official visit to Turky, emphasising the deep fraternal ties and strong friendship established by the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and noting that these relations continue to grow and prosper in various fields.

He also praised Sheikha Fatima’s pivotal role in enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries through the activities and initiatives led by the organisations she chairs.

The Turkish president highly valued Sheikha Fatima’s notable efforts and contributions in vital fields such as family, motherhood, childhood, women, education, and health, stating that these initiatives have left a clear mark on the social and cultural development of the UAE and gained wide recognition at both local and international levels.

President Erdogan highlighted the significant humanitarian role played by the Sheikh Zayed Children’s Complex in Istanbul since the 1990s, noting its great success in meeting the needs of vulnerable children. He stressed that such ongoing initiatives continue to strengthen the emotional bonds between the Turkish and Emirati peoples.

WAM