President Tatar and his wife Sibel Tatar grace the opening of Baku’s “Photography and Traditional Clothes Exhibition”
President Ersin Tatar and his wife, Sibel Tatar, recently attended the “Photography and Traditional Clothes Exhibition” in Baku, Azerbaijan. The exhibition was organized as part of the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Culture and Promotion Days” event. President Tatar and his wife took the opportunity to tour the exhibition and engage in conversations with the guests.
The event was graced by the presence of President Ersin Tatar and his wife Sibel Tatar, as well as Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and his wife Zerrin Üstel. The Republic of Turkey Ambassador to Baku, Assoc. Dr. Cahit Bağcı, and TRNC Baku Representative Ufuk Turganer were also in attendance, along with many other distinguished individuals.
The event commenced with a moment of silence and the national anthems of the participating countries. President Ersin Tatar delivered the opening speech, which was followed by a mesmerizing folk dance performance by the Iskele Municipality Folk Dance Group. The event also featured a music concert by Turkish Cypriot artist Begüm Tekakpınar, who recently won the 3rd Meykin Asian International Music Festival in Kyrgyzstan.
The exhibition, held at The Landmark Hotel, showcased traditional clothes that represent the Turkish Cypriot culture. Additionally, it exhibited 89 photographs in various categories, which had received recognition and were displayed as part of the 31st State Photography Competition by Turkish Cypriot photographers.
During his speech at the event, President Tatar highlighted the significance of their visit to Baku. He mentioned meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and the discussions they had about the purpose and importance of the visit. President Tatar conveyed Aliyev’s greetings to the participants and emphasized the TRNC government’s commitment to strengthening relations with the Republic of Turkey, Azerbaijan, and other Turkish states.
President Tatar emphasized the distinct identity of the Turkish Cypriot people in Cyprus and their cultural heritage that strengthens their resistance against attempts to marginalize them. He commended the artists involved in the exhibition, expressing his pride in leading a strong delegation to Azerbaijan.
President Tatar noted that the photography exhibition showcased the beauty and history of Cyprus. Notably, the exhibition featured photographs depicting the July 20, 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation, which President Tatar described as the greatest victory for the Turkish Cypriots. The photographs captured the landing of Turkish soldiers on the island and their subsequent collaboration with the Mujahideen in their struggle.
Furthermore, President Tatar highlighted the work of photographer Hasan Bağlar, who documented the butterfly species found in Cyprus.
Concluding his speech, President Tatar affirmed the resilience of the Turkish Cypriot people, stating that they exist and will continue to thrive in all aspects of life.
Overall, the “Photography and Traditional Clothes Exhibition” served as a platform to showcase the cultural richness and heritage of the Turkish Cypriot people, while also fostering diplomatic ties and strengthening relationships with Azerbaijan.
