NEWS

A July 1st reception was held at the ESBAS/Space Camp Türkiye garden commemorating the 237th anniversary of the United States of America`s independence. U.S. Ambassador, Francis J. Ricciardone, ESBAS Chairwoman, Mary Tuncer and prominent representatives from Izmir’s political and business circles participated in the event which was held at ESBAS for the eighth straight year. 

Ambassador Ricciardone especially recognized ESBAS and founder Kaya Tuncer during his opening remarks.  “My wife Marie and I are grateful for Mary and Kaya Tuncer’s unique friendship. This evening, when I look at you and ESBAS, I can feel that the late Mr. Tuncer is among us.  Not only the people of Izmir, but we also feel fortunate for having known Kaya.”

The ambassador also noted that ESBAS has made important contributions in Turkish-American friendship and business relations, and prominent American companies, such as Cummins, Delphi, Gates, HMT and Pratt and Whitney, have invested in the Aegean Free Zone.

Mrs. Tuncer said it was a pleasure co-sponsoring the independence day celebration and also emphasized the importance of ESBAS` efforts to promote friendly relations between the Turkish and American communities.

Other guests in attendance included:  Mehmet Ali Susam, a representative in Parliament from Izmir; Dr. Sırrı Aydoğan, Deputy Mayor of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality; Ekrem Demirtaş, Chairman of the Izmir Chamber of Commerce; Ender Yorgancılar, President of EBSO; Yılmaz Temizocak, President of EGEV; Kemal Çolakoğlu, Head of IZKA Assembly and Geza Delogh, Marine Chamber of Commerce.   

The evening’s music was provided by the jazz band, To Be Continued, from New Orleans.