60th Anniversary of the Turkish Diaspora in Sweden Celebrated

The Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) organized the “60th Anniversary of the Turkish Diaspora” program in Stockholm to mark 60 years of migration from Turkey to Sweden. The event was attended by Minister Vedat Işıkhan, YTB President Abdulhadi Turus, AK Party MP Faruk Kılıç, Mayor of Midyat Veysi Şahin, Turkey’s Ambassador to Stockholm Yönet Can Tezel, and many other guests.

Minister Işıkhan, in his speech, highlighted that the historic friendship between Turkey and Sweden took on a new dimension with the migration 60 years ago. Emphasizing that the relationship between the two countries has been strengthened through effort and courage, he said: “We are together to commemorate this meaningful anniversary, when the centuries-old friendship between Turkey and Sweden was reinforced 60 years ago with hard work, dedication, and courage.”

Conveying the greetings of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Işıkhan underlined the importance of the diaspora for Turkey: “I extend the warmest greetings and affection of our esteemed President, who crowns the second century of our Republic with the Turkey Century Vision. We remember with mercy and gratitude the first-generation citizens who stepped onto these lands with hope and courage, making great sacrifices to build a new life.”

 
Highlighting that the Turkish community in Sweden contributes value both to Turkey and Swedish society, Işıkhan stated: “The Turkish community in Sweden is both a source of pride for Turkey and an integral part of Swedish society. From economy to art, science to sports, your achievements continually make us proud.”

 

He also stressed the importance of younger generations preserving their identity while contributing to the society they live in, noting this as a societal gain.

 

YTB President Abdulhadi Turus emphasized that Turkey always considers its citizens abroad as an inseparable part of the nation. Recalling the founding of YTB in 2010 under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s vision, Turus highlighted the presidency’s efforts to protect and enhance the rights of citizens abroad.

Reflecting on the early years of migration, Turus said that Turks arriving in Sweden embarked on a new life and gradually built a lasting community: “As the presidency, we strive to protect the rights and interests of our citizens abroad in every field and to advance them further. Thanks to determination, patience, and faith, a permanent community and strong ties between the two countries stand firm today. Those who set out 60 years ago stepped not only into a new country but also into a new life and future.”

 Turus noted that the Turkish community’s roots in Sweden were the result of effort and faith: “For the first generation, it was about finding work to sustain themselves and their families back home. Over time, life came together, labor deepened, families reunited, and a Turkish community firmly rooted in Sweden emerged.”

He emphasized that the community draws its strength not only from its hardworking hands but also from its hope and faith in the future.

 

Turkey’s Ambassador to Stockholm, Yönet Can Tezel, underscored the contributions of Turkish citizens migrating to Sweden since 1965, noting that they added not only labor but also cultural richness, solidarity, and friendship to Swedish society.

Representing the first generation, İsmail Zengin shared his migration story and memories: “We migrated as a family from Konya/Kulu in 1971. Here in Sweden, I trained in electronics and electrical engineering, founded my own company, and provided employment to many people. I also served in various roles within the Turkish community here and took part in the construction of the first mosque in Sweden.”

Muhammed Selim Can, representing the fourth generation, added: “Years ago, our grandparents migrated to Sweden. They worked with great effort and patience. The seed they planted 60 years ago has slowly sprouted, nurtured with patience and labor, growing first into a sapling, then into a mighty tree. Today, we gather in the shade of that tree. Although we all come from different stories and lands, we have begun writing a new story here together. Everyone present is part of that story.”

The event also featured a 60-piece photo exhibition by Orhan Karan, a documentary film about 60 years of relations between Turkey and Sweden.

Additionally, Artist Nazım Onay and his choir presented a repertoire of Turkish melodies. The Swedish Turkish Diaspora Atlas compiled by German-born researcher Mustafa İyi was gifted to the attendees.