UN’un 80. Yıldönümü İstanbul’da Şerefiye Sarnıcı’nda Coşkuyla Kutlandı

In 2025, we are marking 80 years since the founding of the United Nations – the institution that has established peace, diplomacy, and solidarity at the center of relations between states and people.

UN’un 80. Yılı İstanbul’da Şerefiye Sarnıcı’nda Coşkuyla Kutlandı

On this historic occasion, the Consulates General of the Republic of Moldova and Germany in Istanbul organized a diplomatic and cultural event in the magnificent Şerefiye Sarnıcı (Theodosius Cistern) museum, a 1,600‑year‑old architectural jewel of the city.

The ceremony welcomed approximately 150 distinguished guests, including His All‑Holiness Bartholomew I, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Mr. Nuri Aslan, Acting Mayor of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, and Ms. Belen Sanz Luque, UN Women Regional Director.

In his opening remarks, the Consul General of Moldova emphasized that “The Republic of Moldova has been an active part of the UN for 33 years” and highlighted the multilateral support received in areas such as democratic institution building, human‑rights protection, climate action and humanitarian assistance.

As a co‑organiser, the Moldovan Consulate also presented a concert by renowned composer and pan‑flute virtuoso Constantin Moscovici, People’s Artist of Moldova, followed by a tasting of premium Moldovan wines from Purcari Winery. The guests praised the wines for their rich flavor and cultural significance.

The event not only celebrated the past eight decades of UN achievements—peacekeeping missions, development programmes, and humanitarian relief—but also looked forward to the future. Speakers reiterated that the UN Charter remains the sole beacon of hope for peoples fleeing war, famine, epidemics or oppression.

Reflecting on contemporary challenges, the delegation underscored the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a stark reminder of why the principles of peace and solidarity are indispensable. “We condemn any kind of war in any corner of the world,” the speakers declared, reaffirming the UN’s role as guarantor of international security.

Germany’s participation highlighted the European commitment to multilateralism. The German Consul General praised the partnership with Moldova, noting that together they embody the UN’s spirit of cooperation: a “small country with a big heart” joining forces with a “large and influential nation” to celebrate a shared vision.

Beyond the ceremony, organisers thanked the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and İBB Kültür for their logistical support, which made the use of the historic cistern possible. Their collaboration exemplifies how local authorities can facilitate global diplomatic events.

Looking ahead, the speakers urged member states to intensify efforts towards the Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing that the UN’s future relevance depends on collective action, innovative diplomacy, and unwavering commitment to human dignity.

In closing, the audience echoed a hopeful mantra: “Through cooperation, we can build a safer, more prosperous world for future generations.” The celebration ended with a warm “Happy birthday, United Nations!” echoing through the ancient arches of Şerefiye Sarnıcı.