The “International Coffee Tasting” event, organized by the embassies of Central American and Caribbean countries including the Dominican Republic, Panama, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and El Salvador in Ankara, took place at Café Latino.
Haşim KILIÇ
DURING the “International Coffee Tasting” event, coffees from six different Central American and Caribbean countries were sampled. Among the attendees were Nicaraguan Ambassador Tatiana Daniela Garcia Silva, El Salvadoran Ambassador Hector Jaime Calderon, Peruvian Ambassador Cesar Augusto De Las Casas Diaz, Colombian Ambassador Julio Anibal Riano, as well as many diplomats and guests.
In her speech, Nicaraguan Ambassador Tatiana Daniela Garcia Silva stated that the event aimed to introduce the unique and valuable aroma of coffee, which she described as “black gold,” and its place in the rich culture of the region. Silva said, “Throughout history, coffee has played an important role in the traditions of many peoples, including the Ottoman Empire and modern-day Türkiye. Istanbul, as the place where the first ‘kahvehane’ (coffeehouses) were established, holds a special place in the history of coffee.
The popularity of coffee in the Ottoman Empire contributed to its spread in Europe, facilitating its arrival in Latin America in the 18th century. Since then, coffee, in all its forms, has become a key element of social and cultural connections.”
TOP 15 IN COFFEE PRODUCTION
“Today, our countries represent between 10% and 15% of the world’s coffee production, providing significant income to the economies of the region. As of 2024, the countries represented at this event rank among the top 15 global coffee producers.”
Central America and the Caribbean have extraordinary and favorable geographical conditions for coffee cultivation. Mountainous areas, rainforests, ancient trees, lakes, high plateaus, and volcanic soils are among these. Our tropical climate, combined with periods of abundant rainfall, promotes the growth and development of coffee plants.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY PRACTICES
“We also have a deeply rooted culture of product care. Each country implements meticulous programs and processes, from harvesting to roasting, based on the careful handling of coffee beans to ensure the creation of quality flavors and aromas. These processes promote sustainable agricultural practices and respect for our environment. Coffee has always been present in the portrait of rural life and our diverse ecosystems, while also finding its place in the fast pace of urban life.
In the last 10 years, various coffees from our countries have been awarded the prestigious Excellence Cup, which honors the best coffees in the world.”
