Israel to mark Ataturk’s birthday

Pyotr Lukimson, Israel. Exclusively to Vestnik Kavkaza

The society of Jews from Turkey “Arkadash” will conduct the solemn meeting devoted to the 131st anniversary of the outstanding Turkish politician Mustafa Kemal Ataturk on November 10. The event will start at the monument of Ataturk in the Center of Heritage of Jews from Turkey in the Israeli city of Ieguda.

It is planned that prominent Israeli scientists and leaders of the society of natives of Turkey will present reports on Ataturk’s contribution to forming of the Turkish state; then a new documentary will be demonstrated to the participants. It is about Ataturk’s life and his relations with the Jewish community in Turkey.

“We celebrate Ataturk’s birthday since long ago,” one of activists of Arkdash says. “However, in recent years this event gained new importance in the context of worsening Israeli-Turkish relations. Om the one hand, we want to show that no political processes can change our attitude to our beloved Turkish land and Turkish people. On the other hand, we have to remind people how important Ataturk’s heritage is for Turkey and the whole world, and it would be a pity if Turkey will reject this heritage.”

The chairman of Arkadash, Eyal Perez, states that after worsening of Israeli-Turkish relations, the society intensified their activity. Activists of Ardaksh actively participate in various forums in Turkish internet-space. There are various events and arrangements organized by the society. It contributes to close ties between Turkey and the diaspora in Israel, moreover, it is an instrument of public diplomacy.