Emine Erdoğan met with Jean Henri Todt, the UN Special Representative for Road Safety, at Vahdettin Mansion during his visit to Istanbul for the 31 October World Cities Day program. 

During the meeting, Todt praised Turkey for leading the global fight against waste and congratulated Emine Erdoğan for her role in the Zero Waste Project, which she oversees. He emphasized that promoting public transport, cycling, and walking in cities would reduce traffic accidents, enhance road safety, and support the circular economy.

Todt also pointed out the challenge of managing the disposal of batteries as transportation systems transition to electric vehicles, noting that efforts in this area would significantly contribute to the global circular economy. He requested Emine Erdoğan's support on this matter.

In response, Emine Erdoğan highlighted that under the leadership of her husband, President Erdoğan, road construction and maintenance efforts have led to a 50% reduction in traffic accidents, and she shared information on these initiatives.

Emine Erdoğan expressed her gratitude to Jean Henri Todt, the UN Special Representative for Road Safety, for signing the Global Zero Waste Goodwill Declaration. In a post on her social media account on X, she noted that she met with Todt ahead of the 31 October World Cities Day program in Istanbul, focusing on the "Zero Waste" theme.

She shared that they exchanged ideas about the "Zero Vision" initiative, which aligns with the Zero Waste movement. Emine Erdoğan expressed her satisfaction in learning that Todt appreciates Turkey's efforts in reducing traffic-related fatalities. They also discussed exemplary practices that would promote the circular economy and enhance road safety. 

In her post, she thanked Todt for his contributions and participation, stating, "I believe we will reach safer, more livable, and sustainable cities together."