‘Salute to Spring’ poetry recital program organized in Skopje

Skopje hosts ‘Salute to Spring’ poetry recital program, emphasizing the universal language of literature in fostering cultural bonds and preserving Turkish heritage in North Macedonia

The “Salute to Spring” poetry recital program was organized by the Department of Turkish Language and Literature of St. Cyril and Medotiy University in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia.

The program, which was organized with the support of the Education Counsellor’s Office of the Embassy of Türkiye in Skopje and Yunus Emre Institute Skopje, was attended by Turkish Ambassador to Skopje Fatih Ulusoy, representatives of Turkish institutions and organizations in the country, students and academics.

In his speech here, Ulusoy said that literature is a universal language that transcends political borders and establishes bonds of affection between people.

Noting that poetry and oral literature have served as a means of preserving traditions, values and identity for generations, Ulusoy said: “Literature and poetry have always had a special place in the hearts of the Turkish community in North Macedonia, and the poems of the master poets raised in this community have contributed to the survival of Turkish. It is also necessary to acknowledge the merits of our literary and publishing channels in keeping Turkish alive in these lands.”

In this context, Ulusoy highlighted the significance of “Birlik,” the first Turkish newspaper, which began publication in the early 1940s. He emphasized that the Yucelists played a crucial role in preserving the Turkish language in North Macedonia by spearheading various publishing initiatives, including printing reading books in the Turkish alphabet and launching the first Turkish broadcast on Skopje Radio.

Referring to the importance of Turkology departments in the leading universities of North Macedonia, Ulusoy said, “These chairs have a great duty in terms of the correct recognition of Turkish culture and literature, its promotion in the academic community, and its transfer to new generations.”

Ulusoy added that Türkiye will continue to support these efforts through the International Balkan University (IBU), Maarif Schools, Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Center, Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and nongovernmental organizations.

Professor Osman Emin, head of the Department of Turkish Language and Literature, stressing that the department was opened in 1976 despite all the impossibilities, said: “The Department of Turkish Language and Literature has become a national institution created by the hardworking hands that work for the development of a nation.”