GIFF opens the doors to Turkey

During the opening ceremony of the eighteenth Guanajuato International Film Festival, held at the Angela Peralta Theater in the city of San Miguel de Allende, the Turkish ambassador, Mustafa Oğuz Demiralp, delivered some touching words in what represents the beginning of a movie-filled week. With great diplomacy, he spoke in favor of expanding relations between Turkey and Mexico, hoping this will lead to a rise in film co-productions between the two countries. “It’s very difficult not to confuse Turkey with Mexico, because we are a distant country in geographical issues, but both countries are similar in our souls,” he said. Speaking on behalf of the special guests who will show their work during the 10 days of the festival, he expressed his gratitude and pride for being the Guest Country of Honor during this new edition of a festival which, although carried out in two relatively small cities, year by year has become an internationally recognized event.

Sarah Hoch, director and founder of GIFF, extended her gratitude to all institutions who have been involved in the growth of the festival and especially the Turkish guests who have brought Mexico its best filmmakers, producers and talents. To conclude her speech, she again thanked the city of San Miguel de Allende for their hospitality and support that has been provided every year: “This festival is for all of you. It is the cinema of Mexico and from the world to the world. “