Değerli konuklar hepiniz hoşgeldiniz.
Good evening everyone, thanks very much and I would like to welcome you to the Consulate General as we celebrate the Independence Day of the United States of America. It’s a pleasure to see you here in such great numbers and to see so many friends and colleagues sharing this memorable day.
The past year has brought many opportunities to call on individuals, groups and institutions across this great city and the broader region we cover from Istanbul. Each encounter provides a special chance to engage with the Turkish people and to learn more about the history and culture and traditions and the dynamic present of this wonderful country. I want to thank all of you for your hospitality and your warmth in making that experience so memorable.
These celebrations are always special, but this year is a particularly special one, because it is the first time that we welcome Ambassador John Bass and Holly Holzer Bass to celebrate Independence Day in Istanbul.
Ladies and gentlemen, Ambassador John Bass.