The gathering organized in London by the Association of Turkish-British Journalists on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr brought together media representatives from both countries, delivering important messages on professional solidarity, digital journalism, and international cooperation.
The Turkish-British Journalists Association, headquartered in London, brought together Turkish and British media representatives at a gathering organized on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. The event, held at the London branch of Hafız Mustafa 1864, contributed to the development of dialogue, interaction, and institutional cooperation among media professionals.
Among those attending the gathering were Türkiye’s Ambassador to London Koray Ertaş, The Times correspondent Ali Mitib, Turkish-British Journalists Association President Alpaslan Düven, Anadolu Agency Correspondents Behlül Çetinkaya and Zeynep Çetinkaya, Turks in Britain Editor Azim Köse, The Best Magazine Editor and TBJA’s Vice Chairwoman Hülya Özkoyuncu, ASKON UK Representative Cahit Tuz, as well as Okan Abdullahoğlu and Ahmet Halit Demir.
Ambassador Ertaş: “Solidarity Between Turkish and British Journalists Is Important”
Highlighting the importance of cooperation and solidarity between Turkish and British journalists, Ambassador Ertaş said:
“Turkish-language media abroad plays a vital role as a bridge for Turkish citizens and communities living in different countries, strengthening cultural ties and supporting social integration. In this regard, it is to the benefit of both societies for Turkish journalists to work in harmony with their British counterparts and to strengthen mutual cooperation. On this occasion, I wish the Association of Turkish-British Journalists continued success.”
Ambassador Ertaş also shared his Eid message:
“May God preserve our unity and solidarity. I hope that Eid al-Fitr brings mercy and blessings to the entire Islamic world.”
Düven: “Reliable journalism is the foundation of sustainable communication”
Alpaslan Düven, President of the Turkish-British Journalists Association, stated that the association’s vision is to establish a multidimensional platform for cooperation among journalists.
Emphasizing the association’s goal of increasing collaboration between Turkish and British journalists in the UK, Düven added:
“Our association collaborates with civil society organizations, professional bodies, and various institutions, and takes part in joint platforms and committees when necessary. Another key mission is to promote and strengthen the shared values between the United Kingdom and Turkey. In this context, we bring together media organizations and journalists through conferences, seminars, symposiums, festivals, and networking events. Through these activities, we aim to promote accurate information, foster mutual understanding, eliminate prejudices, and strengthen dialogue between communities.
“In addition, our association encourages successful journalists through competitions and award programs, while contributing to professional development through certified training initiatives and reinforcing solidarity within the media community. TBJA also carries out various activities to support the professional, social, and cultural development of its members and affiliated journalists. While primarily focused on the United Kingdom, the association can also engage in project-based collaborations in other countries when needed.”
Özkoyuncu: “We Bring Turkish and British Journalists Together”
TBJA Vice President Hülya Özkoyuncu stated in a written message:
“Since its founding, the Association of Turkish-British Journalists has been bringing together Turkish and British journalists, strengthening professional solidarity and cooperation. We host British journalists in Turkey and Turkish journalists in the UK. Acting as a bridge between Turkish and British societies, our association supports and advances Türkiye’s lobbying activities in the United Kingdom.”
