The Economic Cooperation Organization Cultural Institute (ECOCI) and the Pakistan Embassy in Ankara recently hosted a poetry event titled “From Hearts to Horizons: Urdu, Turkish, and Persian Expressions” at the Pakistan Embassy International Study Group. The event brought together poets, literary enthusiasts, and diplomats from across the ECO member states to celebrate the shared literary traditions of Urdu, Turkish, and Persian languages. Poetry readings in all three languages were featured, with translations provided to ensure a broader understanding of the cultural unity that binds the region.
The event was welcomed by Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkey, Dr. Yousaf Junaid, along with Dr. Saad Sikander Khan, President of ECOCI. Other attendees included Ambassador of Iran H.E. Mohammad Hassan Habibollah Zadeh, Executive Director of the ECO Educational Institute Dr. AbdulKarim Sadeghdoost, as well as academicians and diplomats from across the ECO region.
In his address, Ambassador Dr. Junaid highlighted the vast cultural diversity of the ECO region, which spans from the Caucasus to Central Asia and South Asia. He noted that poets, saints, and writers from the region have long conveyed messages of wisdom, peace, and resilience that continue to shape the cultural identities of the peoples of the area. Citing the works of figures such as Omar Khayyam, Maulana Rumi, Mirza Ghalib, Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and Mehmet Akif Ersoy, Ambassador Junaid emphasized that the messages of these poets resonate far beyond the region, offering wisdom to all of humanity.
Ambassador Junaid also stressed the importance of cultural diplomacy in today’s world, which is often divided by geopolitical and ideological tensions. He called for continued emphasis on cultural exchange within the ECO region, nurturing the voices of writers and poets, and fostering critical thinking and creativity. “In the 21st century, as our region becomes more interconnected through trade, technology, and communication, the cultural bonds that unite us are more important than ever,” he said. He added that the future of the region depends not only on economic growth but also on a shared vision of mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration.
Ambassador of Iran, H.E. Mohammad Hassan Habibollah Zadeh, praised the event as a powerful reminder of how literature can bridge cultural divides, fostering understanding and appreciation among nations. He expressed his gratitude to the Pakistan Embassy and ECOCI for organizing the event and called for more events in the future that highlight the region’s common literary heritage.
Dr. Saad Sikander Khan, President of ECOCI, also spoke at the event, emphasizing that the gathering reflected the common heritage shared through literary traditions. He noted that Urdu, Turkish, and Persian poetry have not only enriched lives but also strengthened the bonds of friendship, cooperation, and peace among ECO member states.
