Honorary Doctorate from Yeditepe University to H.E. Giorgio Marrapodi, Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Türkiye
In recognition of his valuable and enduring contributions to the advancement of diplomatic, economic, cultural, and academic relations between Türkiye and Italy, Yeditepe University has awarded an Honorary Doctorate to His Excellency Giorgio Marrapodi, Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Türkiye, following the unanimous decision of the University Senate.
The ceremony, held at Yeditepe University, was attended by Bedrettin Dalan, Founder and Honorary President of Yeditepe University; Yusuf Akgün, Chair of the Board of Trustees; Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman; vice rectors, faculty members, and students..
“A Testament to Longstanding Friendship and Strengthened Cooperation”
Addressing the audience at the ceremony, Ambassador Giorgio Marrapodi said:
“It is a profound honor for me to be associated with such a distinguished university, whose commitment to higher education, intellectual excellence, innovation, and global engagement is recognized not only in Türkiye but internationally.” Stating that “This honorary title is not only a personal recognition, but also a testament to the longstanding friendship and increasingly strong cooperation between Italy and Türkiye,” Ambassador Marrapodi continued: “The two countries share deep historical ties, a rich cultural exchange, and strong economic and scientific partnerships. This honor today reaffirms our shared belief in diplomacy, mutual understanding, and cooperation for peace and sustainable development in challenging times.” Highlighting the constructive role both countries can play due to their geographical, political, and cultural positions, Ambassador Marrapodi added:
“Italy advocates for solutions that bring people together rather than divide them. For us, peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, dignity, and equal opportunity. Türkiye, with its unique role connecting continents and cultures, and with the vision articulated by the founder of the Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, ‘Peace at home, peace in the world, ’ shares these same values. Over the years, we have repeatedly witnessed Türkiye’s ongoing commitment to these principles, its capacity for mediation, its ability to facilitate dialogue, and its achievements in humanitarian diplomacy.”
“You Are a Member of This Family”
Addressing Ambassador Marrapodi, Yeditepe University Founder and Honorary President Bedrettin Dalan began by saying, “My dear brother, my friend,” expressing their close friendship since the earliest days of the university.Dalan remarked, “Giorgio is not only a statesman; he is truly a good person. And being a good person is far more difficult than being an ambassador.” Referring to Marrapodi’s upcoming assignment at the United Nations, Dalan wished him success in his new role and added: “As you leave Türkiye, do not think that we will forget you, and you will not forget us either. Because you are a member of this family.” Dalan also emphasized that Yeditepe University maintains extensive collaborations with universities in Italy, noting that these partnerships will continue to grow even stronger..
“An Exemplary Leader in Strengthening Bilateral Relations”
Yeditepe University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman stated:
“Today, we are here not only to honor an ambassador, but also to recognize a distinguished figure who has brought renewed perspective, energy, and lasting depth to every dimension of Türkiye–Italy relations.”
Prof. Dr. Durman highlighted Ambassador Marrapodi’s exemplary leadership since assuming office in January 2022, saying:
“Giorgio Marrapodi is one of the most influential and impactful diplomats shaping Türkiye–Italy relations in recent years. During his tenure, bilateral trade volume exceeded 32 billion USD; strategic agreements were signed in defense, aviation, and space; and numerous pioneering projects in cultural diplomacy enhanced the visibility of both countries.”
Prof. Durman continued his words as follows:
“In recognition of his outstanding service to diplomacy, science, society, and international cooperation and upon the recommendation of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences the Yeditepe University Senate has unanimously decided to confer upon H.E. Giorgio Marrapodi the Honorary Doctorate, the highest distinction of our institution and an honor granted to only a select few in our university’s history.”.
Photo Caption from left to right:
Prof. Dr. Mehmet Durman, Giorgio Marrapodi, Bedrettin Dalan, Yusuf Akgün