[No. 397] The Country Connecting Asia and Europe: The Friendship Between Turkey and Japan 🌍🇹🇷

In the FIFA World Cup, the Turkish national team competes in the European qualifiers.

On the other hand, looking at a map, one can see that Turkey is a country that straddles both Asia and Europe.

Approximately 97% of its land is located on the Asian side (the Anatolian Peninsula), and about 3% is on the European side, making it a bridge that connects the two continents.

While researching Turkey, I was reminded of events that tell the story of its deep friendship with Japan.

The Ertuğrul frigate disaster of 1890.

The people of Japan worked desperately to rescue the crew of the Turkish Navy who were shipwrecked off the coast of Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture.

Then, in 1985, during the Iran-Iraq War, many Japanese citizens were able to return home thanks to a special Turkish Airlines flight requested by the Turkish government.

A spirit of mutual aid passed down across approximately 100 years.

Even today, it is known to many as an event that speaks to the friendly relationship between Japan and Turkey.

I hold sincere respect for this history.

I remembered these events when I tasted a kebab in Ameyoko, Ueno, some time ago.

While enjoying the aroma of the savory grilled meat and spices, I reflected on the history behind that dish and the friendship between Japan and Turkey.

👉 The extra edition also touches on the friendship between Japan and Turkey.

👉 [Extra Edition No. 4] Daytime Drinking Culture and Historical Strolls in Ueno Ameyoko 🍺🌳

An Investment Journey of Continuous Learning 📚✈️

📖 Cultivating the Earth: A Record of Walking with Global Stocks

📖 Cultivating the Future: Renji Enko's 'Trust and Entrust' Investment Log

Global Geographical Positioning 🌍👥

Turkey has a population of approximately 85 million.

The largest city, Istanbul, is known as one of the few cities in the world that spans both Asia and Europe across the Bosphorus Strait.

It has flourished as a vital hub for trade since ancient times, where many civilizations have intersected.

Its geographical characteristics continue to play a major role in logistics and economic activities today.

Economic Pillars: Industry and Logistics 🏭🚢

In Turkey,

・Automotive industry
・Home appliance manufacturing
・Textile industry
・Agriculture
・Tourism

and other diverse industries are developing.

It also plays an important role as a logistics hub connecting Europe and Asia.

Within the global economy, its geographical strength holds significant value.

Food Culture: The Globally Beloved Kebab 🥙🍽️

Turkish cuisine is sometimes introduced as one of the world's three great cuisines.

Among them, isn't the kebab one of the most familiar dishes in Japan?

In its home country, there are regional characteristics in how it is grilled, seasoned, and combined with bread, and a diverse food culture has been passed down.

Starting with one dish, interest expands to the country's history, culture, and the lives of its people.

I feel that this is also one of the joys of learning about the world.

Similarities and Differences with Japan 🇯🇵🌍

Although Japan and Turkey are far apart in distance, they are countries that have helped each other throughout history.

During the Ertuğrul frigate disaster of 1890, the Japanese people carried out desperate rescue efforts.

Then, during the Iran-Iraq War in 1985, many Japanese citizens were able to return home thanks to a special Turkish Airlines flight dispatched at the request of the Turkish government.

These events are still passed down today as history that symbolizes the friendly relationship between the two countries.

On the other hand, while Japan is an island nation, Turkey is a vital transportation hub connecting Asia and Europe, a country where diverse cultures and ethnicities intersect.

Although there are differences in culture, religion, and diet, I feel that the spirit of caring for others and helping one another in times of difficulty is something we share.

The more I learn about history, the more I realize the weight of that friendship.

Weight in Global Stocks 📊🌐

When you invest in global stocks, you naturally start to take an interest in each individual country.

Turkey's composition ratio is by no means large.

However, there are many countries in the world that possess value that cannot be measured by market capitalization alone.

Geography.

Logistics.

Industry.

History.

I feel that by learning about the world, my perspective on where to invest is gradually broadening.

Politics, Society, and Long-term Investment 🏛️💹

In recent years, Turkey has been facing economic challenges such as rising prices and currency depreciation.

On the other hand, it also possesses strengths that lead to the future, such as a young demographic structure, manufacturing, and tourism.

Looking at a country from a multifaceted perspective rather than just one side.

That may also be an important way of thinking in long-term investment.

Lessons as an Investor 🌱💡

Friendship between nations is not built in a day.

Trust is nurtured over many years and passed down through generations.

I believe that investing, too, is not about seeking short-term results, but about cultivating the future while making time your ally.

Learning about the world is not just about economics; it is also about understanding the connections between people and between nations.

I want to continue learning about the world while maintaining respect for each and every country.

⚠️ Note: Regarding the financial information covered in this article

📝 This article is based on the author's experience and personal thoughts.
💹 It is not intended to recommend any specific financial products.
📊 Information may contain errors due to revisions or updates.
✅ Please make your own decisions and investments at your own risk.

Deep Tilling × Cultivation
Fields, bodies, and investments—a way of life that keeps on tilling.
Renji Enko