Trump Honored with Türkiye’s Highest-Level State Ceremony During Ankara Visit
US President Donald Trump received Türkiye’s highest-ranking official welcome on Tuesday as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted him with the prestigious “A+” state ceremony at the Presidential Complex in Ankara.
The official visit began with a ceremonial escort as mounted cavalry accompanied Trump’s motorcade through the avenue leading to the Presidential Complex. Erdogan welcomed the US president at the main entrance before both leaders proceeded to the ceremony area, where the national anthems of Türkiye and the United States were performed.
The elaborate ceremony highlighted Türkiye’s historical and military traditions. It featured representatives of the 16 historic Turkish states, the Presidential Guard Regiment, the Mehter military band, Janissary-inspired ceremonial units, and a 21-gun salute honoring the visiting head of state.
Adding a personal touch, Trump greeted members of the ceremonial guard in Turkish, saying, “Merhaba asker” (“Hello, soldier”), before joining Erdogan for a formal handshake and official photographs in front of the Turkish and US national flags.
As the presidential motorcade entered the complex, the Turkish Air Force’s renowned aerobatic squadron, the Turkish Stars, conducted a flypast, releasing red, blue, and white smoke in tribute to the colors of the American flag.
The “A+” welcoming ceremony represents Türkiye’s highest level of official state reception and is reserved for select visiting leaders. Introduced in April 2025 during the visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the ceremony was conducted for only the second time with Trump’s visit, underscoring the significance Ankara attached to the occasion.
The ceremonial reception reflects the importance both governments place on maintaining high-level diplomatic engagement and strengthening bilateral relations.
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