Turkish-Japanese Cultural Exchange Events Commence in Ankara
Ankara, June 7 – The Turkish-Japanese Cultural Days have officially commenced in the historic Suluhan in Ankara’s Beypazarı district. The opening ceremony featured an international art exhibition showcasing 100 works by 30 female artists, as well as an international children’s and youth art exhibition. Japanese and Turkish artists captivated audiences with their musical and dance performances. The cultural exchange events are scheduled to run until June 9.
Dignitaries Attend Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Beypazarı District Governor Ünal Çoşkun, Beypazarı Mayor Özer Kasap, Chamber of Commerce President İrfan Çelik, Deputy Mayor Sezai Tolunay, and esteemed guests from Japan.
‘Ancient Bond Revived in This Historic Venue’
Beypazarı Mayor Kasap emphasized the goal of rekindling a bond established centuries ago. He stated, “Centuries ago, Silk Road caravans not only transported goods but also brought stories and friendships from the farthest reaches of Asia. Today, that ancient bond is being revived in this historic venue with the Turkish-Japanese Cultural Days. Beypazarı is not merely a historical sanctuary proud of its past; it is a city with a universal vision, facing the world. In the last two years, we have hosted guests from over 20 countries at our international dance festivals in Beypazarı. This new connection we are forging with our Japanese friends today demonstrates that the greatness of a city is measured not by its geographical boundaries or population, but by the depth of the story it can tell the world. Thousands of kilometers may separate Japan and us. However, our commitment to traditions, and our respect for craftsmanship and labor, bridge all distances. The scent of wood in our mansions and the serene spirit of Japanese culture meet in a common language here today.”
‘Turkey Stood by the Japanese People’
Shiho Seto, President of the Japanese Women Artists Association, addressed the audience, explaining why Turkey was chosen as the first stop for this international exhibition. “Many people might ask: Why is Turkey the first stop for this international exhibition? I believe Turkey is one of the most special countries in the world for Japan. This is not solely due to historical events. Approximately seven years ago, I had the opportunity to live with a Turkish family for several months. They welcomed me as a member of their family. We ate together, laughed together, and shared daily life. During this period, I closely witnessed the warmth, sincerity, and value the Turkish people place on human relationships. Therefore, Turkey is not just a foreign country for me. This is where my friends and people I consider family live. This is why I dreamed of connecting Japan and Turkey through art. Another reason that makes Turkey special is that in 1985, during the Iran-Iraq War, Turkey assisted in the evacuation of Japanese citizens stranded in Tehran. In the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, Turkey also stood by the Japanese people. I have never forgotten these acts of kindness. However, my gratitude is not only to a country but to the Turkish people who acted during those days.”
Seto also shared her experience working on traditional seed preservation in Japan seven years ago, which taught her the importance of preserving culture and art. She noted that traditional Japanese arts are at a turning point and emphasized that what cannot be achieved alone can be accomplished together, which is one of the founding principles of the JWAA. “I believe that art has great power. Art transcends language, art transcends borders, and it connects people’s hearts,” she concluded.
‘It’s Wonderful to Have Such an Event in Beypazarı’
Ayşe Güzin Gürsel, a member of the Turkish-Japanese Women’s Association, who was invited to the program, expressed her delight regarding the event. “It’s wonderful. We already love the Japanese people and Japanese culture. They love us too. I know that there has been such a close relationship since Atatürk’s time. During my visit to Japan, I entered the mosque built by Atatürk in Tokyo and prayed, and I was very touched. All Japanese people show great respect for him. Today, I am also very happy to be here. It’s wonderful to have such an event in Beypazarı,” she stated.
Source: dha.com.tr
