Ukrainian communities in Türkiye unite in Ankara
A meeting of leaders and representatives of Ukrainian communities from various regions of Türkiye took place in Ankara as part of the international project “A Two Way Journey” and the EmpowHER Summit.
The civic organization “Ukrainian Family” reported this on Facebook, CE Report quotes Ukrinform.
It is noted that the event served as a platform for strengthening the Ukrainian diaspora, exchanging experiences, and planning joint initiatives.
The meeting began on August 14 with an official opening ceremony and welcoming speeches at the One Tower venue.
A highlight of the first day was a reception at the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Türkiye. The participants were welcomed by Nariman Dzhelialov, Ukraine’s ambassador to Türkiye, along with his wife, Leviza Dzhelalova. The diplomat thanked the leaders of Ukrainian communities for their work aimed at preserving Ukrainian identity, developing communities, and advocating for Ukraine’s interests abroad.
During the reception, the ambassador also personally presented letters of appreciation to the leaders of the Ukrainian communities.
The second day of the meeting, August 15, was devoted to presentations on the communities’ activities. Representatives of the local chapters spoke about the cultural and humanitarian projects they had implemented, shared their practical experiences, and presented their vision for the further development of the Ukrainian community in Türkiye.
Among the participants was also the chairperson of the NGO “Ukrainian Family,” who presented the results of the organization’s work.
The embassy emphasized that the meeting demonstrated that Ukrainian communities in Türkiye, despite their geographical distance, share a common vision and are ready to join forces to support one another and advance Ukrainian interests.
Nariman Dzhelialov also focused on the challenges faced by Ukrainians forced to leave their homes due to full-scale Russian aggression, particularly citizens from the temporarily occupied territories, and stressed the importance of systematic and long-term support for Ukrainian families and children abroad.
In her remarks, Leviza Dzhelialova paid special attention to the experience of forced migration among Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar women, who—amidst war, occupation, and separation from their loved ones—take on the responsibility of caring for their families, raising their children, and preserving their language, culture, and memory.
“For millions of Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars, home is not just a place on a map. It is memory, roots, identity, and hope—things that cannot be taken away,” she noted.
Participants not only exchanged experiences but also discussed opportunities for new partnerships and joint projects.
As reported, a Ukrainian audio guide went live on July 7 at the Anıtkabir Memorial—a place of remembrance for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and one of Türkiye’s main symbols.
Photo: Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Türkiye/ Facebook
