04.03.2026 21:03
The iftar program organized by the Swiss Turkish Community in Zurich was attended by approximately one thousand people. The program was also attended by Turkey's Ambassador to Bern, Şebnem İncesu, Zurich Consul General Fazlı Çorman, and AK Party Istanbul Deputy Süleyman Soylu. The host of the iftar, ITT President Suat Şahin, emphasized the unifying power of the month of Ramadan and stated that iftar tables are one of the most important symbols of brotherhood, solidarity, and unity of hearts.
The umbrella organization of Turkish civil society organizations operating in Switzerland, the Swiss Turkish Community (ITC), held a large iftar program in Zurich. Approximately one thousand people attended the program, which took place in the Dietikon district of Zurich.
ITC President Suat Şahin, Turkey's Ambassador to Bern Şebnem İncesu, Zurich Consul General Fazlı Çorman, AK Party Istanbul MP Süleyman Soylu, along with many Turkish citizens and representatives of civil society organizations participated in the iftar program.
"RAMADAN IS A SYMBOL OF UNITY AND SOLIDARITY"
Speaking at the program, ITC President Suat Şahin emphasized the unifying power of the month of Ramadan, stating that iftar tables are one of the most important symbols of brotherhood, solidarity, and unity of hearts.
Şahin highlighted that although the Turkish community living in Switzerland has different opinions, they can come together on common values, stating that federations, associations, and civil society organizations are the most important building blocks of this unity.
Stating that Turkey is not just a geography, Şahin said, "Wherever a Turkish heart beats, that place is also a part of Turkey." He also pointed out the importance of citizens living abroad contributing to the country they are in while preserving their identity.
A CALL TO YOUNG PEOPLE FOR TECHNOLOGY
Turkey's Ambassador to Bern, Şebnem İncesu, emphasized the importance of young people using technology and communication opportunities more effectively in her speech. İncesu stressed that the sense of unity and solidarity among the Turkish community needs to be strengthened.
"GATHERING AT THE SAME TABLE HAS GREAT SIGNIFICANCE"
Zurich Consul General Fazlı Çorman stated that meeting with Turkish citizens at the same table during the spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan holds great significance for them. Çorman expressed that it is valuable for society to be together despite different opinions and wished that the month of Ramadan brings health, peace, and abundance.
SOYLU: PROTECTING IDENTITY IS A GREAT RESPONSIBILITY
AK Party Istanbul MP Süleyman Soylu stated that Ramadan is not only a month of worship but also a month of civilization that brings Muslims together. He expressed that the Turkish community here lives by preserving its identity, the culture, and values of Anatolia, thousands of kilometers away from their homeland, saying, "It is a great responsibility to both adapt to a different society and to protect one's own identity. I sincerely thank you for achieving this." He emphasized that they are facing a global structure that tries to destroy this solidarity and family, thanking the Turkish community that protects its children and values, contributes to the society it is in, and is accepted by that society. Soylu said, "They are the people of the civilization of goodness and are good people. Initially, we were misinformed about the Turks, we misunderstood and felt anxious; may God bless all the people here who instilled that feeling in every society you are in."
Pointing out the importance of standing together when it comes to the homeland, even if there are different opinions, Soylu noted that in a period where power balances are being re-established, a strong Turkey means security for everyone.
After the program, Soylu visited the ITC General Center and met with representatives of the International Democrats Union (UID) at the sahur program.