Program Organized on the Occasion of the “65th Anniversary of the Türkiye-Germany Labor Recruitment Agreement”

Pazartesi, Kasım 2, 2026

On the 65th anniversary of the Türkiye-Germany Labor Recruitment Agreement, a program titled “65th Anniversary of the Türkiye-Germany Labor Recruitment Agreement” was organized by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB). During the program, where the 65-year migration narrative, shared memory, and intergenerational experiences were addressed, the journey of the Turkish community in Germany extending from the past to the present was commemorated.

YTB President Abdulhadi Turus, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General for Migration Policies and Visa Matters Ambassador Esin Çakıl, Anadolu Agency (AA) Sports News Director Kaan Elbir, the family of Mevlüde Genç who lost two daughters, two granddaughters, and a niece as a result of her house being arsoned by neo-Nazis in Solingen and numerous guests attended the program focusing on the 65-year migration process.

​The program commenced with a performance by a music group from Nuremberg, Germany, and the screening of a short documentary portraying the Turkish diaspora.

​Speaking at the program titled “65th Year of the Turkish Diaspora in Germany: Together into the Future,” YTB President Abdulhadi Turus stated that the journey extending to Germany 65 years ago was not merely a labor mobility movement, but a story of longing, perseverance, sacrifice, and hopes growing over generations.

​Expressing that the first generation worked so that their children could access opportunities they themselves often could not reach, Turus noted that the silent sacrifices and strong willpower of the elders lie at the foundation of the achievements made today in science, economy, art, and every walk of life.

​Turus remarked: “The hopes packed into suitcases 65 years ago are transforming into new opportunities today in the hands of the fifth generation. Carrying this great heritage into the achievements of the future is our shared responsibility. Because this story belongs to us.”

​Making evaluations regarding the future of the Turkish community in Germany, Turus stated that they believe they will see a much stronger Turkish community in the year 2061, adding: “We will see generations who know their roots, take pride in their identity, deliver new works in science, technology, economy, and art, and have a voice in the future of the society they live in.”

​Emphasizing that as YTB, they will continue to strengthen children's ties with Turkish, open new opportunities for young people, and support civil society and the rights of citizens, Turus made the assessment: “We will lay the foundations of 2061 starting today, together.”

​Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General for Migration Policies and Visa Matters Ambassador Esin Çakıl stated that they render services in Germany with 14 consulates general, expressing that consular services are fulfilled through these consulates general and support is provided to protect the rights of citizens in situations such as discrimination.

​Çakıl stated: “We are striving to ensure that your rights and law in the countries you reside in are upheld, and that your bond with the motherland is strengthened. As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we put forth every effort alongside YTB, TİKA, Maarif, and YEE.”

​Commemorating with mercy the citizens who lost their lives as a result of racist attacks, Çakıl welcomed the participants back to their motherland.

​Within the scope of a panel organized as part of the program, the 65-year experience of the Turkish community in Germany, diaspora accumulation, and perspectives toward the future were discussed. Furthermore, an exhibition prepared on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the Turkish Diaspora in Germany was presented to the visitors.


Related News

citizens-abroad
Citizens Abroad

On the 65th anniversary of the Türkiye-Germany Labor Recruitment Agreement, a program titled “65th Anniversary of the Türkiye

Monday, 02 November 2026

citizens-abroad
Citizens Abroad

YTB President Abdulhadi Turus: “Endearing Turkish to a child is leaving a mark on their future.”

Tuesday, 20 October 2026

citizens-abroad
Citizens Abroad

YTB President Abdulhadi Turus: “We will transform the ideas and experiences emerging from these gatherings into concrete solu

Monday, 19 October 2026