Türkiye’s Head of Communications Fahrettin Altun has addressed the Turkish-American community in a video message during the 42nd Turkish Day Parade held in New York, underscoring the event’s symbolic value for Türkiye and the Turkish diaspora.
The parade and accompanying events were organised on Sunday under the coordination of the Communications Directorate and drew wide participation from not only the Turkish-American community, but also from representatives of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Azerbaijan, and the wider Turkic world.
Altun described the event as a meaningful symbol of unity, solidarity, and friendship.
“This event is not just a parade but also a sharing of Türkiye’s historical heritage, cultural richness, and powerful vision with the world,” he said.
Türkiye-US strategic relations
Praising the role of the diaspora, Altun emphasised that every participant was a “citizen diplomat” representing Türkiye’s principles and identity abroad.
“The moments when our star-and-crescent flag rises to the sky gain even more meaning through your participation and efforts,” he said.
“With your achievements in civil society, the scientific world, entrepreneurship, sports, culture and arts, you undertake not only your individual presence but also the strong representation of our nation.”
Altun noted the long-standing strategic partnership between Türkiye and the United States, rooted in NATO alliance and cooperation across multiple sectors.
“This partnership plays an important role not only in defence but also in ensuring regional stability and building global peace,” he said.
While acknowledging that differences in opinion occasionally surface, Altun said Türkiye remains committed to advancing the bilateral relationship based on mutual respect, constructive dialogue and shared interests.
He also pointed to expanding ties in trade, investment, and innovation, highlighting the growing momentum in educational and cultural diplomacy efforts between the two countries. These partnerships, he added, serve to build lasting bridges of friendship and strengthen social bonds.
Principled foreign policy, global justice
Touching on broader international issues, Altun stressed the need for a global foundation based on justice and fairness.
“We are living in a period where many issues shaking global balance must be addressed clearly and fairly,” he said.
He cited the wars in Ukraine, rising tensions between Pakistan and India, and Israel’s attacks in Gaza as signs of the fragility of the international system. “We are a nation that does not remain silent in the face of humanitarian tragedies, wherever they may occur,” Altun stated.
“As a stabilising power, we have always stood for justice and the oppressed, and we will continue this stance.”
He added that the end of Syria’s civil war and the establishment of a transitional administration representing a free Syria would be welcome for regional and global peace. Türkiye, he noted, has consistently supported Syria’s territorial integrity, security, and stability.
Fighting double standards and extremism
Altun also drew attention to the double standards Türkiye faces in the international arena—particularly in counter-terrorism efforts.
“It should not be forgotten that the ground that terrorist organisations targeting our country and nearby geography have been trying to hold onto for years, is a serious threat not only to our region but also to global security,” he said.
This reality, he added, reinforces the truth that peace, justice, and stability can only be achieved through a principled and consistent stance.
He further warned against the rise of Islamophobia, xenophobia and the legitimisation of hate through political and media discourse.
Disinformation, he said, remains one of the most pressing global threats.
“In this chaotic atmosphere the unity and solidarity of the Turkish-American community is certainly very valuable,” Altun concluded.
Fahrettin Altun praises national unity, honours martyrs, and highlights the state's ongoing commitment to peace and stability as Türkiye reaches a key stage in its fight against terrorism.
