Historical Background: A Foundation of Friendship

Japanese-Turkish relations trace their origins back to the late 19th century, when the two nations, despite being geographically distant, recognized the potential for mutual cooperation and understanding. The relationship between the two nations changed fundamentally in 1890 with a significant and tragic event that became a cornerstone of bilateral ties: the sinking of the Ottoman frigate Ertuğrul off the coast of Japan. The frigate, sent by Ottoman Sultan Abdülhamid II on a goodwill mission, encountered a devastating typhoon on its return journey, leading to the loss of most of its crew.