The "3rd International Congress on Turkic World Strategic Studies" was held on May 15, 2026, at the Conference Hall of the Faculty of Political Sciences Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Complex. Hosted by the Marmara University Faculty of Political Sciences, the congress was organized by the Turkic World Nomadic Turkmen Union with the support of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), TÜRKSOY, and the Union of Municipalities of the Turkic World.
The congress, where academic studies on the shared history, culture, diplomacy, and strategic cooperation of the Turkic world were discussed, was held under the honorary presidency of Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur, Rector of Marmara University. The Scientific Committee was chaired by Prof. Dr. Nail Yılmaz, Dean of the Faculty of Political Sciences, while the Organizing Committee was chaired by Cemal Akkuş, Secretary General of the Turkic World Yoruk Turkmen Union. The congress also attracted significant interest from numerous academics, researchers, and guests.
Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur: “Istanbul Is the Capital of the Turkic World”
In his opening remarks, Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur highlighted the spirit of unity and solidarity among Turkic nations, stating that Istanbul serves as “the capital of the Turkic world.” He also expressed his satisfaction with the congress being hosted by Marmara University and drew attention to the importance of strengthening common values across the Turkic world
Referring also to oppressed regions in his speech, Rector Okur stated that the Turkish nation has historically acted with a sense of justice and compassion, saying: “Superiority lies in self-sacrifice; superiority lies in standing by the oppressed; superiority lies in truth; superiority lies in justice.”
Highlighting the tragedies experienced across Gaza, Palestine, Crimea, and Central Asia, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur stated that Türkiye adopts an approach aimed at reconstruction and renewal alongside recovery from destruction. Stressing the importance of humanitarian responsibility, Rector Okur said: “Turks have always been the ones people waited for. While some destroyed, others waited to reconstruct.”
Cultural and Institutional Cooperation in the Turkic World
Speaking at the congress, İdris Güllüce, Former Minister of Environment and Urbanization of the Republic of Türkiye, stated that the Turkic world has gone through a remarkable period of transformation and consolidation over time. Highlighting the growing cultural, academic, and humanitarian cooperation among Turkic republics, Güllüce emphasized the importance of conveying the values of historical heritage, compassion, justice, and solidarity to future generations. He also noted that the Turkish nation sets an example to the world through its culture of humanity, generosity, and hospitality, while sharing hopeful perspectives on the future of the Turkic world.
Prof. Dr. Nail Yılmaz, Head of the Science Committee and Dean, stated that the 3rd International Congress on Turkic World Strategic Studies is an important platform that strengthens the shared history, culture, and sense of solidarity of the Turkic world. Noting that the congress was organized under the theme "Cooperation Based on Turkic Friendship: An International Relations Perspective from History to the Future," Dean Yılmaz pointed out the potential for political, cultural, economic, and academic cooperation in the Turkic world. Emphasizing the importance of a common stance against global issues such as Turkophobia and Islamophobia, Dean Yılmaz stated that the congress would contribute to strengthening collective wisdom and developing lasting cooperations by bringing together scientists from different countries.
Cemal Akkuş, Head of the Organizing Committee, stated that the 3rd International Congress on Turkic World Strategic Studies has quickly become a major academic platform attracting intense international interest. Expressing that more than 400 paper applications were submitted to the congress this year, Akkuş emphasized that academic studies focused on the Turkic world carry great importance for strengthening strategic cooperations and cultural ties. Stating that they addressed the theme of "Turkophilia" at the congress this year, Akkuş expressed that the goal was to highlight Turkic friendship and a positive perspective toward the Turkic world. Thanking the institutions and young people who contributed to the realization of the congress, Akkuş stated that they view serving the Turkic world as a national responsibility.
Bringing together participants from 16 different countries, the congress aimed to foster cooperation based on Turkish culture and friendship. The event stood out for its academic scope, with representation from 60 universities and 6 organizations. In total, 113 academics contributed to the congress. Throughout 21 sessions, 83 papers were presented, offering insights into contemporary academic research on the Turkic world. The program also included cultural events in addition to scientific discussions.
Following the event, several gifts were presented to Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Emin Okur. Rector Okur also toured the stands and took commemorative photos with students.
