The 11th-grade students of Prof. Ivan Apostolov Foreign Language High School had the honor of welcoming His Excellency Mehmet Sait Uyanık, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Bulgaria. The meeting took place as part of the initiative “From the School Classroom to the International Stage – the World of Diplomacy” and brought together nearly 100 students with an interest in international relations, politics, and global processes.
His Excellency Mr. Uyanık addressed the students with inspiring words:
“Diplomacy is not just a profession – it is a way of life.”
He emphasized that the work of a diplomat requires constant adaptability, a strong sense of responsibility, and the ability to make quick decisions in a dynamic international environment.
In his presentation, he shared details about his professional journey – from his education and first steps in the foreign service to his work in different countries and international contexts.
“To be successful in diplomacy, you need to understand people, cultures, and different perspectives,” he noted, highlighting the importance of intercultural understanding and the ability to build trust.
Particular attention was given to the personal qualities required for a successful international career. According to Ambassador Uyanık, discipline, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning are among the key factors for professional development. He encouraged students to stay curious and to continuously develop their knowledge and skills in a dynamic global environment.
During the meeting, specific guidance for the students’ future development was also discussed – including the importance of a strong academic foundation, proficiency in foreign languages, broad general knowledge, and an active interest in international events and processes. The Ambassador encouraged them to remain curious, to read more, and to follow the global issues shaping the modern world.
The event continued with a lively discussion, during which students asked questions related to the daily work of diplomats, the challenges of working abroad, the role of protocol, and career opportunities in international relations. Their active participation and thoughtful questions demonstrated a strong interest in the topic.
His Excellency was highly approachable and even shared engaging and amusing stories from his career. The distance between him and the students was bridged from the very beginning, and we are grateful for the warm attitude of the entire team.
At the end of the visit, His Excellency was interviewed by our 12th-grade student Katrina Korakova, after which he and his team toured the school and познакомed themselves with the educational environment and the opportunities that Prof. Ivan Apostolov Foreign Language High School offers its students.
The meeting turned into a valuable educational and motivational experience, broadening the students’ horizons and giving them a real insight into opportunities for development on the international stage. The initiative once again confirmed the school’s commitment to connecting its students with inspiring individuals and preparing them for active participation in the global world.
