Official statements from governments or OSCE records

Feridun Sinirlioğlu Appointed OSCE Secretary General in Malta, First Turkish Citizen, with Support of 57 Member States

Dec 6, 2024, 12:50 PM

Feridun Sinirlioğlu, a former Turkish ambassador, has been appointed as the new Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). His election marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first Turkish citizen to hold this position in the organization's 50-year history. This appointment was confirmed during the OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta, where Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Türkiye's commitment to security and diplomacy, particularly in relation to regional stability and ongoing issues in Ukraine and the Middle East. Sinirlioğlu's election was made by consensus among the 57 member states, reflecting the international community's confidence in Türkiye's diplomatic efforts. Fidan congratulated Sinirlioğlu, highlighting the importance of this role in addressing global crises and enhancing Türkiye's influence in international affairs.