10.10.2026
The “Turkic World Youth Gathering,” which brought together hundreds of university students, journalists, and digital media representatives from member and observer countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), aims to strengthen unity and solidarity among the Turkic peoples.
Held from October 9 to 11 under the slogan “Common Heritage, One Heart,” the official opening ceremony began with the Turkish national anthem and a commemoration of the martyrs of the Turkic world. The ceremony continued with the screening of a promotional video highlighting the activities of the AK Party’s Directorate of Relations with Turkic States.
The Future of the Turkic World Rests on the Shoulders of Its Youth
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Tahir Büyükakın, TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev, Member of Parliament for Kocaeli Veysel Tipioğlu, and AK Party Deputy Chairman and Head of Relations with Turkic States Prof. Dr. Kürşad Zorlu emphasized that the future of the Turkic world depends on the vision and aspirations of its youth.
Drawing attention to global developments and the importance of cultural diplomacy, the speakers underlined that safeguarding shared history, cultural heritage, and unity is a vital responsibility, particularly during these challenging times.
Good News for Sports and Football: Players from Turkic States to Be Exempt from Foreign-Player Status
Assessing global developments, AK Party Deputy Chairman Prof. Dr. Kürşad Zorlu stated that solidarity among countries would be further strengthened by drawing on their shared history.
Emphasizing the unifying power of young people, Zorlu announced important developments in the field of sports:
- Turkic Status for Footballers: He stated that work was underway to ensure that football players arriving in Türkiye from Turkic states would be classified as Turkish players rather than foreign players.
- Joint Türkiye Cup: He announced plans to organize a joint football tournament called the “Türkiye Cup” every two years, with the participation of all Turkic states.
Zorlu also announced that the second edition of the gathering would be held in Kayseri next year.
Three Days Filled with Culture, Arts, and Sports
Following the opening speeches, the program continued with musical performances and folk dances featuring popular artists from the Turkic world, including Azerin.
The three-day event will feature thematic panel discussions, concerts, cultural activities, and excursions. The gathering aims to deepen communication and cooperation among young people from across the Turkic world and to pass on their shared history and cultural values to future generations.
