We welcomed Sanjay Panda, Ambassador of India to Ankara Tunç Soyer, Mayor of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, welcomed Sanjay Panda, Ambassador of India to Ankara, who visited the city for the first time and attended the opening of the 90th IEF.

Ambassador Panda stated that he liked the city very much while ideas were shared to strengthen relations during his visit. Sanjay Panda, stating that he came to Izmir for the first time and liked the city very much, also showed the sunset picture he took in Kordon.

Panda stated that they wanted to come to Izmir with a crowded delegation, but they could not implement these ideas because of the exit bans in India due to the coronavirus pandemic. Proposal to organise India week in Izmir Panda, reminding of the twin city relationship between Mumbai and Izmir, drew attention to the celebrations to be held for the 75th anniversary of India's liberation in 2022 and offered to organise India Week in Izmir. Panda, stating that it would be beneficial for the promotion of his country to do Indian food, dances, cinema, and cultural activities, said that he thought that the event would create a festive atmosphere in Izmir. Panda, stating that they aimed to participate in the first IEF to be held in the normal period after the pandemic with a crowded delegation, said that they had achieved its efficiency in trade and many issues in the previous years.

Soyer, the host Metropolitan Mayor, said that he was very happy with the Ambassador’s visit and would give the necessary support to strengthen bilateral relations with India.