Ankara, February 23 – The International Organization of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY) hosted a significant ‘Turkic World’ Iftar program in Ankara yesterday, marking the holy month of Ramadan. The event, held at the TÜRKSOY General Secretariat, brought together a diverse group of high-ranking officials and guests, emphasizing cultural unity and cooperation among Turkic states.
Prominent Figures Attend Iftar Program
The Iftar program saw the participation of several key figures, including Kürşad Zorlu, AK Party Deputy Chairman, Head of Relations with Turkic States, and Ankara Deputy; İlyas Topsakal, MHP Deputy Chairman responsible for the Turkic World and International Relations, and Samsun Deputy; Ayşe Berris Ekinci, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; Sultan Raev, TÜRKSOY Secretary General; Ruslan Kazakbaev, Kyrgyzstan’s Ambassador to Ankara; and numerous other distinguished guests.
TÜRKSOY: A Meeting Point for the Turkic World
In his address, AK Party Deputy Chairman Zorlu highlighted TÜRKSOY’s crucial role in undertaking important activities and becoming a “serious meeting point” for the Turkic world. He emphasized that TÜRKSOY “undertakes a very important mission that not only unifies the politics of our countries but also brings their cultures closer.”
Zorlu also noted the significance of February 23, as it marked the first anniversary of the Presidency’s Directorate of Relations with Turkic States, established under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He stated that important events and activities have been implemented under President Erdoğan’s patronage, including the announcement of the Turkic World Vision Document on December 15, International Turkic Language Family Day, which has become a “headstone resource” for the Turkic world.
Looking ahead, Zorlu mentioned preparations for a significant event during the upcoming Nevruz Bayram. He announced that a legislative proposal would soon be submitted to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey to formally recognize Nevruz as a common commemoration day for the Turkic world, a decision made jointly by President Erdoğan and the heads of state. “The Ramadan we are observing today is undoubtedly a very important meeting point that brings together the depths of our culture and history,” Zorlu added.
Zorlu further stressed the commitment to strengthening unity in all fields, acknowledging the significant work of Yunus Emre Institute (YEE) President Abdurrahman Aliy in opening new offices worldwide for the teaching of the Turkish language.
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
MHP Deputy Chairman Topsakal recalled the pioneers who established the Turkic world 30-35 years ago. He underscored the importance of the 100th anniversary of the First Turkology Congress, expressing confidence that the Turkic world would continue to support each other and advance their shared goals.
Deputy Foreign Minister Ekinci extended her wishes for peace and tranquility for Turkey, the Turkish nation, and all humanity during Ramadan. She described TÜRKSOY as a “unique bridge” that strengthens cultural unity and brotherhood among Turkic peoples living in different geographies, enhancing cultural diversity and common identity. Ekinci affirmed continued support for TÜRKSOY’s work, stating, “Our common goal is to make the Turkic world more visible, more effective, and more harmonious on both regional and global scales.”
Ekinci also highlighted the efforts of sister organizations such as the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), the Turkic Academy, and the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation as the strongest elements in achieving this goal within the Turkic world’s cooperation architecture. She noted that these efforts have enabled the preservation and international promotion of the Turkic world’s common cultural values. “With Turkey assuming the term presidency at the Organization of Turkic States summit in the last quarter of this year, we aim to accelerate these efforts together with our sister organizations,” Ekinci stated.
TÜRKSOY: A Hearth for the Turkic World
TÜRKSOY Secretary General Raev emphasized that Ramadan is not only a month of fasting but also a special time for remembering spiritual discipline, patience, and sharing. He described it as a “school of wisdom” where individuals reflect on themselves and deeply appreciate brotherhood. Raev stated, “This is not just a workplace; it is the unwavering hearth of the Turkic world in Ankara, a tent of wisdom where hearts are warmed, our culture is kept alive, and our common memory is preserved.”
Raev also shared that special rice was brought from Andijan, Uzbekistan, the city designated as the “Turkic World Cultural Capital,” to prepare the Iftar meal. “The gathering of friends from different countries around the same pot is a living and concrete symbol of our common culture,” he said. Raev concluded by emphasizing that the transformation of distances into closeness of hearts and differences into brotherhood at the same table is the essence of the Turkic world, wishing peace, strength, and blessings to the Turkic world during Ramadan.
Kyrgyzstan’s Ambassador to Ankara, Kazakbaev, thanked TÜRKSOY Secretary General Raev and the organizers for the Iftar program. He underlined that the Iftar table was not merely a “Ramadan gathering” but an embodiment of a “spirit of brotherhood,” expressing his wishes for the strengthening of the Turkic world.
Source: https://www.haberturk.com/ankara-haberleri/40648319-turksoyun-ev-sahibl
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