‘Türkiye Expo’ in Paris showcases rich Turkish culture

The Türkiye Expo, hosted by the Religious Affairs Turkish Islamic Union (DITIB) France, is being held on Oct. 25-27 at the Paris Botanical Garden.

The festival commenced with a Quran recitation and was attended by notable figures, including Türkiye’s Ambassador to Paris Yunus Demirer, Türkiye’s Consul General in Paris Kerem Yilmaz, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Paris Leyla Abdullayeva and DITIB France President and Paris Religious Affairs Counselor Bayram Demirtas.

Ambassadors Demirer, Yilmaz, Abdullayeva and Demirtas officially opened the festival by cutting a red ribbon, marking the start of a celebration aimed at enhancing cultural ties.

‘Strengthening friendship and cooperation’

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Demirer emphasized that the festival goes beyond cultural promotion and plays a vital role in strengthening the friendship and cooperation between French and Turkish communities.

He highlighted the growing economic collaboration between the two countries, stating, “The economic partnership between Türkiye and France deepens each day. We are delighted to see the 800,000-strong Turkish community in France actively contributing to its economy with entrepreneurial and productive ventures.”

Demirer expressed his hope that collaboration would extend into every aspect of life, including culture, arts, and sports, noting, “Events like these contribute significantly to achieving that goal.”

He also encouraged Turkish communities in France to participate actively in the political, cultural, and social spheres of their host country, believing that stronger integration would further bolster relations between the two nations.

Reflecting on the festival’s timing, which coincides with Türkiye’s Republic Day on Oct. 29, Demirer wished all Turkish citizens a happy Republic Day.

Preserving cultural heritage at Türkiye Expo

Bayram Demirtas, President of DITIB France, expressed a hope that the event would help preserve and carry forward the spiritual and cultural values of the Turkish people. “We aim to introduce these rich values to today’s world and bring together people of all ages around these traditions. Events like this are not just festivals; they serve as platforms for learning and sharing,” Demirtas stated.

Ambassador Demirer and Consul General Yilmaz, accompanied by other dignitaries, toured the festival stands, with Demirer even trying his hand at making a clay vase.

Taste of Anatolia: Traditional cuisine, arts on display

The Türkiye Expo offered visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Turkish craftsmanship. Artisans demonstrated traditional glassmaking and pottery techniques, providing insights into these age-old crafts. Visitors sampled traditional delicacies from Anatolian cuisine, including Turkish coffee and tea, which were a hit among attendees.

The festival also hosted a range of activities, including bookstands featuring children’s books and Turkish novels, captivating visitors with performances like the Sufi whirling ceremony and the traditional shadow play of Karagoz and Hacivat.

Guests could appreciate calligraphy and watercolor arts, while international visitors had the chance to taste popular Turkish treats like dried fruits and lokum (Turkish delight).

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the festival also featured appearances by Turkish writers and performers, who engaged with audiences, sharing their stories and cultural insights.

The Türkiye Expo thus served as a bridge, connecting the rich heritage of Türkiye with the world, fostering understanding and appreciation of Turkish culture.