Deputy Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Dr. Ömer Kocaman, participated in and addressed the commemorative programs organized by the World Union of Ahiska Turks (DATÜB) in Antalya on 21 December 2025, including a commemorative event dedicated to the exile of Ahıska Turks, as well as the 25th anniversary of Ahıska Newspaper and the 15th anniversary of Türk Birliği Magazine.
The events brought together media representatives of the Turkic World, diplomats, civil society leaders, and academics. During the program, President of the World Union of Ahıska Turks (DATÜB), Mr. Ziyatdin Kassanov; H.E. Mr. Hulusi Şahin, Governor of Antalya; Ms. Ayşe Uzer, Deputy Director General for the Caucasus at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye; TÜRKSOY Deputy Secretary General Mr. Sayit Yusuf; and OTS Deputy Secretary General Dr. Ömer Kocaman addressed the audience.
In his address, Dr. Kocaman provided comprehensive information on the Organization of Turkic States, its ongoing activities, and its upcoming agenda. He emphasized that Ahıska Turks have preserved their identity and culture despite decades of hardship, stating that “Ahıska Turks represent the living memory of the Turkic World.” He further highlighted the importance of Ahıska Turks as an integral component of the Turkic World, underlining their resilience and strong sense of identity.
The programs were held in Antalya with the support of TÜRKSOY, TİKA, and the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB). The ceremonies highlighted the significant contributions of Ahıska Newspaper and Türk Birliği Magazine to cultural continuity, unity, and solidarity across the Turkic World, reflecting the strong spirit of unity and resilience among Ahıska Turks.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the World Union of Ahıska Turks (DATÜB) and its President, Mr. Ziyatdin Kassanov, and voiced their support for its activities aimed at preserving cultural heritage, strengthening diaspora solidarity, and promoting unity across the Turkic World, noting that under his leadership DATÜB has emerged as an increasingly important organization in advancing these objectives.
Within the framework of the program, Dr. Kocaman also held discussions with the participating heads of institutions on strengthening cooperation and engagement.
