Türkiye’s Minister: Andijan is a unique center at the heart of the region

In cooperation with the Ministry of Culture of Uzbekistan, the Hokimiyat of Andijan region, and the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), the “Presentation Ceremony of Andijan – Cultural Capital of the Turkic World 2026” took place in Ankara.

Speaking at the ceremony at the General Secretariat of TURKSOY, Minister of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated that holding the presentation of Andijan in Ankara, organized by the Organization of Turkic States, adds special value to this meeting. He emphasized that this vividly reflects the common concept being implemented by the Turkic world under the auspices of various organizations.

He noted that for 33 years, TURKSOY has been making great efforts to preserve, promote, and enhance the global recognition of the culture rooted in the centuries-old history and heritage of the Turkic peoples.

Emphasizing the importance of the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World” program, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said:

– This program has been consistently implemented for 14 years to promote the cultural heritage of the Turkic world and strengthen cultural and artistic interaction between cities. Thanks to these efforts, the visibility of our shared values is increasing internationally. In this regard, the program also plays a strategic role in cultural diplomacy.

According to him, this chain, which began in Astana, contributes to building cultural bridges among 13 cities of the Turkic world and to the dissemination and understanding of shared values:

– This banner has now been passed to Andijan. Andijan is a unique center at the heart of ancient Turkestan, where science, art, and state traditions have developed over centuries. This ancient city, the birthplace of the great statesman, poet, and thinker Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, has left an indelible mark on world history.

Mehmet Nuri Ersoy also noted that Andijan has given the world prominent figures who shaped the intellectual awakening of the Turkic world.

– We will continue to support this important process in Andijan, – concluded Türkiye’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy. – There is no doubt that our shared history and culture, along with a common vision for the future, are leading us toward even stronger unity. I wish that the events to be held in Andijan throughout 2026 will bring benefits and fully serve their purpose, and I hope for the strengthening of unity and solidarity in the Turkic world. I congratulate TURKSOY, which, under the leadership of Secretary General Sultan Raev, is successfully implementing this significant project. The work underway in Andijan today, along with the reform process taking shape under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, demonstrates a powerful convergence of historical heritage and modern development.

G. Khonnazarov, UzA