22.05.2026 14:41
The Rector of the National Defense University, Erhan Afyoncu, drew attention to the common historical heritage and areas of cooperation between Turkey and Tunisia at a conference he attended in Tunisia. Afyoncu stated that history can reach broad masses through simple narration and touched upon the Ottoman influence in North Africa. The conference addressed military training collaborations, cultural similarities, and historical ties between the two countries.
National Defense University Rector Erhan Afyoncu drew attention to the shared historical heritage and areas of cooperation between Turkey and Tunisia during a conference he attended in Tunisia.
The conference titled "Turkish-Tunisian Common Heritage," hosted by the Yunus Emre Institute, was held under the moderation of Turkey's Ambassador to Tunisia, Ahmet Misbah Demircan. The event discussed the historical, cultural, and military relations between the two countries.
“HISTORY GAINS ATTENTION WHEN TOLD UNDERSTANDABLY”
In his speech, Afyoncu emphasized the importance of simple narration in making history accessible to broad audiences in Turkey, noting that his work with İlber Ortaylı and Murat Bardakçı has contributed to this process.
Afyoncu stated, “History gains interest when told in a way everyone can understand. Rote-based and monotonous narration, on the other hand, alienates people.”
OTTOMAN PERIOD AND REGIONAL INFLUENCE
Emphasizing Tunisia's strategic importance throughout history, Afyoncu stated that the Ottoman intervention in the region in the 16th century influenced the course of North Africa.
Afyoncu touched on the activities of figures such as Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha, Turgut Reis, and Kılıç Ali Pasha, recalling that Tunisia was conquered three times in 1534, 1569, and 1574.
Noting that the Ottomans acted in cooperation with local elements, Afyoncu expressed that this was influential in the historical development of the region.
“COOPERATION HOLDS STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE”
Also touching on current developments, Afyoncu noted that a new period of uncertainty is occurring in the world and highlighted the importance of cooperation among friendly and brotherly countries.
Afyoncu pointed out the importance of countries with shared historical and cultural ties acting together.
COMMON GROUND IN MILITARY EDUCATION
Referring to the activities carried out within the National Defense University, Afyoncu stated that military students from approximately 50 countries are studying in Turkey, and Tunisia is among these countries.
He noted that these collaborations contribute to the formation of a common understanding between armies.
“TUNISIA SHOULD BE BETTER KNOWN IN TURKEY”
Ahmet Misbah Demircan, who moderated the conference, stated that the event contributed to the relations between the two countries.
Demircan noted that the historical ties between Turkey and Tunisia need to be brought to the agenda more frequently, and stated that such events increase mutual awareness.
Noting that Tunisians show great interest in Turkey, Demircan expressed that many Tunisian citizens visit Turkey every year.
CULTURAL COMMONALITIES CAME TO THE FORE
The cultural similarities between the two countries were also brought up at the conference. Attention was drawn to the traces of Ottoman heritage in architecture, culinary culture, and daily life.
TURGUT REIS'S DESCENDANT ALSO ATTENDED
Veterinarian Yusuf Dargus, who attended the event, stated that he is a descendant of Turgut Reis and that they are known as the "Dargus" family in Tunisia.
The program ended with a group photo session.