― 31 марта 2025 г.
Visit of TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev to Batken city: New horizons for cultural co-operation in the Turkic World
During his visit to Batken city of Kyrgyzstan, TURKSOY Secretary General made important contacts with the aim of highlighting the cultural potential of the region in the Turkic World and strengthening cooperation.
Within the scope of the visit, the representatives of the Governorate of Batken and other relevant institutions came together and held comprehensive discussions on the cultural identity, historical heritage and promotion of the city at an international scale.
The Position of Batken in the Turkic World and the ‘Altınören Cities’ Project
During the meetings, it was underlined that Batken, as one of the important border cities of Kyrgyzstan, can play a critical role in cultural and economic relations with neighbouring countries. Secretary General underlined the importance of Batken hosting events that contribute to the common cultural heritage of the Turkic World and stated that this city should be promoted as an international cultural route.
It was also stated that the ‘Golden Valley Cities’ project aims to make Batken a cultural and touristic centre. The inclusion of Batken in this project, which aims to bring together the historical and cultural riches of the Turkic world, will increase the recognition of the city. The meeting ended with exchanging gifts and taking a souvenir photo.
Solidarity with Turkic World Theatres in Batken Theatre
Secretary General Raev also visited Batken Theatre, which was one of the important stops of his Batken visit. During the meeting with theatre managers and artists, it was emphasised that Batken Theatre should play an active role among the theatres of the Turkic World. In this context, the steps to be taken for the implementation of joint projects were discussed and it was stated that work will be initiated on the inclusion of Batken Theatre in TURKSOY's theatre activities.
In his speech, Secretary General Raev underlined the role of theatres in preserving the cultural identity and historical heritage of societies and noted that Batken Theatre could reach a wider audience with its stage performances reflecting the common values of the Turkic World. He also expressed that TURKSOY will provide all kinds of support for the development of the infrastructure of the theatre and its preparation for international events. At the end of the meeting the audience met with members of the theatre ensemble and a group photograph was taken as a remembrance of the day.
Cultural Diplomacy and Regional Development
The Secretary General's visit to Batken demonstrated the goal of strengthening the cultural unity of the Turkic World and contributing to regional development. The statements made during the visit emphasised the determination to preserve and develop the common history, language and culture of the Turkic World.
In addition, it was reminded that Malatya and Batken are sister cities, and it was expressed that the exchange of knowledge and experience in apricot production and processing between the two cities should increase.
The importance of developing projects to turn Batken into a cultural and touristic centre and promoting the cultural heritage of the region at the international level was underlined. The people of Batken and local authorities expressed their gratitude to the Secretary General for this visit, stating that it was a very important opportunity for the region.
In line with TURKSOY's mission to increase cultural co-operation, efforts to bring strategic regions such as Batken to the international cultural scene will gain momentum. The projects and cooperation initiatives discussed during the visit will not only strengthen Batken's ties with the Turkic World, but also contribute to the development of the region.
