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President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan arrived in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, to attend the 11th Summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States. During his visit, he also visited Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, a symbol of friendship and cooperation between Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan in the field of education, and participated in the “Mass Opening Ceremony of Academic and Social Units” on November 5, 2024.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was joined by notable figures, including President Ersin Tatar of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Chairman of the Council of Elders of the Organization of Turkic States Binali Yıldırım, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar, Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu, Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat, Head of the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) İbrahim Kalın, Presidential Director of Communications Fahrettin Altun, TRNC Minister of Public Works and Transportation Erhan Arıklı, Deputy Minister of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic Rasul Abazbek uulu, Presidential Advisor on Foreign Policy and Security Akif Çağatay Kılıç, and AK Party Deputy Chairman and Spokesperson Ömer Çelik, along with other officials. The Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Bishkek Ahmet Sadık Doğan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Manas University Prof. Dr. İbrahim Çapak, Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan, Deputy Rector Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev, and academicians and students also attended the event.

The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of the two brotherly countries, followed by a presentation video highlighting Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University.

Raising Youth to Strengthen the Friendship Between Our Countries

In his welcoming speech at the “Mass Opening Ceremony of Academic and Social Units,” Manas University’s Deputy Rector, Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev expressed his gratitude for President Erdoğan’s visit to the university despite his busy schedule. Prof. Dr. Ibraev highlighted that, since its founding, Manas University has proudly carried the name of Manas, the legendary hero of the Kyrgyz people, and has played a vital role in strengthening cultural and social ties between Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and other Turkic states.He stated, “Our university educates new generations deeply connected to our shared history and culture, with the mission of guiding them toward a strong future. Each step we take along this path strengthens the shared future of our two nations,” highlighting the university’s educational vision and its commitment to fostering enduring ties.

This Visit is a Celebration for Us

In his welcoming speech, Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University’s Rector, Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan expressed that President Erdoğan’s visit to the university was a great honor and conveyed his heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the university community. Prof. Dr. Ceylan noted that President Erdoğan’s presence at Manas University, despite his demanding schedule, brought immense joy to the entire Manas family. He concluded with, “I extend my deepest thanks for your interest in our university despite your busy schedule. Hosting you here is truly a celebration for us. As the Manas family, our greatest wish is for your continued good health. May God keep you strong and well.”

Moving Forward with the Support of the President and Ministers

Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. İbrahim Çapak expressed his pride in President Erdoğan’s visit to Manas University and highlighted the support provided by President Erdoğan and ministries to elevate the university among the top thousand in the world. Prof. Dr. Çapak stated, “Our university is currently ranked among the top thousand universities globally, and under the guidance of our Presidents and with the support of our Ministers, we hope to go even further. We are working intensively, both academically and administratively, to ensure our students have the best opportunities for the future.” He also emphasized the unwavering support of the Board of Trustees for the university’s leadership, saying, “As the Board of Trustees, we fully support our Rector and administration, and we are committed to helping the university reach even greater heights.” Prof. Dr. Çapak emphasized that they will continue working diligently to achieve the university's goals.

President Ersin Tatar: "My Heart is With You"

Speaking at the ceremony, TRNC President Ersin Tatar expressed his deep honor at being awarded the title of "Honorary Doctorate" by Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University last year, saying, "Since that day, my heart has always been with you."

In his speech, President Tatar highlighted the steadily growing relations between Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye, expressing his satisfaction with the strengthening of these ties. He extended his gratitude for the invitation and added, “I would like to once again thank our esteemed President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, here in your presence, for his support of the TRNC.”

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan: “The Deep-rooted Bond of Brotherhood Grows Stronger and More Enduring with Each Passing Year.”

During the “Mass Opening Ceremony of Academic and Social Units” at Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his pleasure to be in Kyrgyzstan. He remarked, “I am very happy to address you here in our ancestral homeland, Kyrgyzstan, at the invitation of my dear brother, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov.” President Erdoğan emphasized that the brotherhood between Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan strengthens each year, likening it to a robust plane tree with deep roots that branches out into diverse fields. He added, “We are taking determined steps to carry forward the spirit of brotherhood and cooperation inherited from our ancestors. The most crucial foundation for ensuring the continuity of our cooperation is undoubtedly our joint projects in education. As Türkiye, we are committed to supporting Kyrgyz youth in building a brighter future through our efforts in education.”

President Erdoğan further highlighted the deep historical ties of friendship between Türkiye and Kyrgyzstan, noting that these can be sustained into the future through educational initiatives. Reflecting on the development of educational cooperation between the two countries, he acknowledged Türkiye's continued support for Kyrgyzstan’s educational system following its independence, which has in turn strengthened the bonds of brotherhood between the nations.

A Strong Start with Joint Education Agreements and Schools

 “We have 400 students enrolled in our joint schools, 1,200 students at our Bishkek Turkish School, and 3,100 students attending our TÖMER Turkish courses. Despite its recent opening, our Turkish Maarif Foundation school has already reached 1,500 students. Approximately 7,000 young people are receiving higher education at Manas University. In total, we provide direct educational support to more than 13,000 students across various levels.”

The Greatest Legacy is the Investment in People

President Erdoğan emphasized that the educational projects developed between the two countries, particularly Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, serve as a source of hope for future generations. He highlighted that investments in human resources are a lasting value. Referring to the Manas Epic, he said: “We all know very well that our investments in people have never been and will never be in vain. The Manas Epic describes this truth: ‘A child is heritage and a blessing. A child is the strength of life. Anything else is a false world and wasted labor.’ Yes, the key is to invest in human beings—individuals, youth, and children—which is the greatest legacy.” He stressed the long-term impact of investing in human potential, particularly in the education of young generations.

President Erdoğan also underlined the importance of educational projects for youth, stating that the goal is to raise individuals who will contribute to society as scientists, academics, engineers, bureaucrats, and artists. “In this direction, all our educational institutions, especially Manas University, will play a crucial role in raising youth who think critically, engage in research, follow scientific advancements, and have a mission and vision—youth to whom we can confidently entrust our future,” Erdoğan concluded.

Manas University Will Pave the Way for Kyrgyzstan’s Growth

In his speech, President Erdoğan stated, “We all know this very well: An economic policy, industrialization program, foreign policy, and cultural policy that are not supported by a university are incomplete. In this regard, Manas University will be the driving force behind Kyrgyzstan’s rise.” He emphasized that universities play a crucial role not only in education but also in development and cultural growth. Highlighting that Manas University, as a well-established institution contributing to the Turkic World, continues to inspire youth with vision and purpose, President Erdoğan noted that the university’s achievements have reached an important academic level on the global stage.

Manas University Builds the Future with Inspiration from History

President Erdoğan stated that Manas University was founded with inspiration drawn from historical roots. He said, “We established Manas University with the aim of contributing to the re-development of our civilization, drawing on the achievements of our ancestors. For 29 years, our university has stood as one of the best examples of our friendship and brotherhood. Today, we have Manas graduates in 45 different countries around the world.”

Strengthening Education and Academic Structure

President Erdoğan highlighted the robust academic structure of Manas University, noting that with 11 faculties, 1 high school, 1 vocational high school, and an institute, the university is fulfilling its founding mission effectively. He emphasized that Manas University contributes not only to the academic growth of its students but also to their cultural and social development.

One of the World’s Top 1000 Universities

President Erdoğan expressed his happiness upon learning that Manas University has been ranked among the world’s top 1000 higher education institutions for two consecutive years. He noted that this success is a source of pride not only for Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye but also for the entire Turkic World. “We are raising youth with a mission and vision, to whom we can confidently entrust our future,” he said. President Erdoğan warmly congratulated all the academicians and students who contributed to this achievement.

He continued, “We have spared no effort to ensure that your achievements continue to grow exponentially. Since my time as Prime Minister, we have been closely involved with the university. I personally inaugurated the completed works in our university complex on April 10, 2013. Today, we celebrate the addition of 110 new facilities, projects, services, and products.” He reaffirmed their ongoing interest and support for Manas University.

President Erdoğan further stated that the university's educational infrastructure has been significantly strengthened with new investments. “I would like to congratulate everyone who contributed to the construction of these facilities—from workers to engineers, from companies to the university administration, and from philanthropists to our official institutions and organizations,” he said. He wished that all these services, investments, and projects—including 2 new faculties, 1 institute, and 26 laboratories—would benefit the university.

In his speech, President Erdoğan emphasized that Manas University is an important educational center not only for Kyrgyzstan but also for the entire Turkic World. “As the President of Türkiye, I expect even bigger projects, high-quality scientific studies, and significant achievements from Manas University, which is one of the most renowned universities not only in Kyrgyzstan but also in the Turkic World,” he concluded.

Stay Connected to Your History

In his speech, President Erdoğan also addressed the students of Manas University, offering them the following advice: “Dear youth, remember that trees whose roots are weakened or severed lose their direction on the bumpy roads of life. Never lose touch with your history, your civilization's values, your family, your faith, and your ideals.” He encouraged the youth to strive for excellence in everything, to constantly persevere, and to follow their dreams.

President Erdoğan further emphasized that Manas University has strengthened its position as a key educational institution for the Turkic World. He concluded his speech by expressing his hope that the university will be remembered for even greater achievements in the future.

The ceremony concluded with a group photo following President Erdoğan's 110th mass opening ceremony at Manas University. The “Mass Opening Ceremony of Academic and Social Units” at Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University was broadcast live across Kyrgyzstan on Manas Television. TRT News also aired the live broadcast in its entirety at the same time.

Haberin Fotoğrafları:

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Manas TV'nin Canlı Yayını: 

https://www.youtube.com/live/NkHRIwB5OW