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Türkiye-funded friendship park opens in Guatemala with accessible playground

A general view of the Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park in Guatemala City, renovated with funding from the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) to provide accessible recreational facilities. (AA Photo)
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A general view of the Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park in Guatemala City, renovated with funding from the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) to provide accessible recreational facilities. (AA Photo)
October 10, 2026 05:28 PM GMT+03:00

A new friendship park funded by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) has opened in Guatemala City, offering accessible recreational facilities for people with disabilities and other residents.

The Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park was inaugurated at a ceremony attended by Turkish Ambassador to Guatemala Beliz Celasin Rende, Guatemala City Mayor Ricardo Quinonez, municipal officials, local residents, and people with disabilities.

The project, launched in 2024, involved a comprehensive renovation of the existing park to turn it into a safe and accessible public space, according to TIKA, Türkiye's government agency responsible for international development cooperation.

Guatemala City Mayor Ricardo Quinonez (L) and Turkish Ambassador to Guatemala Beliz Celasin Rende (C) examine plans during a visit to the newly inaugurated Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park. (AA Photo)
Guatemala City Mayor Ricardo Quinonez (L) and Turkish Ambassador to Guatemala Beliz Celasin Rende (C) examine plans during a visit to the newly inaugurated Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park. (AA Photo)

Renovated park designed to encourage accessibility

Covering approximately 2,000 square meters, the park features nearly 25 pieces of playground and exercise equipment, a basketball court and designated areas for socializing and relaxation.

Designed as an inclusive playground, the renovated space aims to help people with disabilities and special needs take part in community activities while remaining open to all city residents.

Guatemala City Mayor Ricardo Quinonez (L) and Turkish Ambassador Beliz Celasin Rende (R) pose for a photograph beside the Turkish and Guatemalan flags at the opening of the Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park in Guatemala City. (AA Photo)
Guatemala City Mayor Ricardo Quinonez (L) and Turkish Ambassador Beliz Celasin Rende (R) pose for a photograph beside the Turkish and Guatemalan flags at the opening of the Türkiye-Guatemala Friendship Park in Guatemala City. (AA Photo)

Park marks longstanding ties between Türkiye, Guatemala

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ambassador Rende said the park would serve as a lasting symbol of friendship between the two countries.

She highlighted the project's completion during a period marking the 152nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Guatemala and the 250th anniversary of Guatemala City's founding.

Mayor Quinonez, meanwhile, pointed out that the park stands in a historically significant part of the capital and provides an outdoor gathering space for residents of all abilities.

He also thanked Türkiye and TIKA for their contributions to the project.

October 10, 2026 05:28 PM GMT+03:00
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