The 3rd Mormenekşe Culture, Arts and Producers Festival was held at the village square in Mormenekşe, jointly organized by Yeni Boğaziçi Municipality, the Mormenekşe Contemporary Women’s Association, and MORDER.
The opening ceremony began with a moment of silence and the national anthem, followed by a folk dance performance by MORDER. The festival brought together local residents, producers, artists, and officials in a vibrant celebration of Cypriot culture.
President Ersin Tatar, who attended the opening, emphasized the importance of cultural heritage and called on young people to embrace their traditions and values.
“It is vital for our youth to live with and uphold their own culture,” said Tatar, underlining the role of cultural identity in the promotion of the country.
He also reaffirmed that the TRNC is committed to cooperation in all matters that serve the interests of the Turkish Cypriot people, as expressed during the latest round of talks in Geneva.
“We are a distinct people. We exist through our culture and art,” he declared, adding that the people of the TRNC will continue to take root in these lands.
President of the Mormenekşe Contemporary Women’s Association, Hayriye Tokyay, stated that the association is actively working to support women’s economic participation while aiming to promote and pass on Cypriot culture to future generations.
Mormenekşe Village Mukhtar Saim Aytürk highlighted the development the village has seen in recent years and expressed full support for similar future initiatives.
Representing the Mayor of Yeni Boğaziçi, municipal council member Atalay Talaykurt emphasized the importance of festivals in promoting the country and preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu also addressed the crowd, stressing that festivals play a crucial role in keeping culture alive and that cultural transmission is essential for the country’s future.
Following the speeches, the festival continued with performances including folk dances, children’s activities, a concert by Grup Otantik, and a show by the Çağdaşlar Choir, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that celebrated tradition, community, and artistic expression.