Ankara celebrates International Tea Day

Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Türkiye, Fahad bin Assaad Abu al-Nasr, and his wife, Rana Abdullah Bahamdan—chair of the Ankara Asia-Pacific Group—hosted a cultural event called “Tea Journey in Asia and the Pacific” on Wednesday to celebrate International Tea Day on May 21.

Saudi Ambassador Fahad bin Assaad Abu al-Nasr and his wife Rana Abdullah Bahamdan, chair of the Ankara Asia-Pacific Group, welcomed guests including Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Zeki Levent Gumrukcu and other diplomats.

Bahamdan described the event as a joyful celebration of culture, heritage, and friendship through tea. She highlighted how tea carries unique stories and rituals in each country and stands as a symbol of hospitality, healing, and community.

Among the countries participating, Azerbaijan showcased its tea culture through a national pavilion where visitors experienced authentic tea rituals and traditional brewing methods. This was part of a larger program including tea demonstrations, cultural performances, and workshops.

The cultural event featured participation from 21 countries across Asia and the Pacific region.

Each nation set up a tea pavilion, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic tea rituals, traditional brewing techniques, and time-honored flavors.

The program also included live tea brewing demonstrations, cultural performances, and interactive workshops, creating an immersive and enjoyable experience for everyone attending.

Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spouses' Solidarity Association (DMEDD) President Simay Gumrukcu noted that tea is the world’s second most consumed drink after water and that every nation has its own distinct tea culture. She emphasized tea’s social importance, saying it’s often the start of meaningful conversations and a symbol of comfort and well-being.

The event underlined tea as a common language linking cultures and communities across Asia and the Pacific, making International Tea Day a true celebration of heritage and friendship.

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