World Civilizations Initiative Research Center Opens in Ankara
Ankara, April 14 – The ‘World Civilizations Initiative Research Center’ has officially opened in the capital city, Ankara. The inauguration ceremony, held at a local hotel, brought together prominent figures to mark the establishment of this new institution dedicated to fostering inter-civilizational dialogue and research.
Vatan Party Chairman Doğu Perinçek expressed his satisfaction in opening a center in collaboration with China. Perinçek highlighted the emergence of a new civilization with Asia at its core, stating that humanity is currently confronting a decaying system of exploitation and oppression. He described humanity as facing a civilization that, in the words of Mehmet Akif Ersoy, is a ‘one-toothed monster,’ a reality he believes is fully manifest in the war waged by American imperialism and Israel against humanity.
Perinçek emphasized the significant contributions of Turks to civilizations established in Asia and stressed that today, they stand at the threshold of a historical responsibility. “The relationship between the Turkish people and Chinese civilization dates back to the depths of history, woven with the Silk Road and silk ties. We, as China and Turkey, now share the leading positions in the East and West of the rising civilization,” he remarked.
Revitalization of the Ancient Silk Road
Cin Şin, General Director of the International Relations Department of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), expressed his pleasure in attending the 55th anniversary of Turkey-China diplomatic relations and the inauguration of the Global Civilizations Initiative Research Center. Cin noted that despite geographical distance, the two countries share a deep-rooted history of inter-civilizational exchange. He highlighted Turkey’s historical role as a crossroads of the land and maritime Silk Roads, serving as a crucial bridge between Eastern and Western civilizations.
“Today, China’s ‘Belt and Road’ initiative and Turkey’s ‘Middle Corridor’ plan are being harmonized, and the ancient Silk Road is being revitalized through the joint efforts of the two peoples,” Cin stated. He underscored that the shared vision for progress between Turkey and China creates a strong dynamic for cooperation. Cin added that as emerging economies and important members of the Global South, China and Turkey share common goals such as national revitalization, peaceful development, justice, and inter-civilizational interaction.
Contribution to Wisdom and Knowledge
Cin affirmed that both China and Turkey are at a critical stage of economic transformation and national development. In this context, he described the two countries as partners working together to implement the Global Civilizations Initiative and contribute to the advancement of human civilization. Cin welcomed the research center, noting that it will deepen intellectual exchange, promote civilizational progress, and contribute wisdom and knowledge to the modernization efforts of Turkey and China.
“Drawing on the historical heritage of both countries, efforts should be made to integrate traditional values with contemporary needs and contribute to modernization processes,” Cin emphasized. He expressed expectations that the research center would enhance cooperation and dialogue, build bridges between peoples, and foster a common understanding by creating an accurate narrative of civilization.
The center is anticipated to play a vital role in academic research, cultural exchange, and policy recommendations, aiming to strengthen the bonds between diverse cultures and promote a more harmonious global society. The opening signifies a commitment from both nations to explore shared histories and future possibilities through collaborative intellectual endeavors.
The event concluded with a mutual understanding of the importance of such initiatives in an increasingly interconnected world, where dialogue and mutual respect are paramount for global peace and development.
