Edirne Governorship Balkan Cities Cooperation Edirne Platform organized an iftar program with wide participation in the courtyard of Selimiye Mosque and its surroundings.
The “Great Selimiye Iftar”, which was held for the third time this year with the initiatives of Governor Yunus Sezer, brought together guests from the Balkans at the same table.
The program started with the recitation of the Holy Quran, and approximately 6 thousand people broke their fast together with the adhan.
In his speech, President of Religious Affairs Safi Arpaguş stated that he felt the happiness of being together with the magnificent crowd on the beautiful days of the month of mercy, forgiveness and salvation.
Emphasizing that the world is going through difficult times, Arpaguş said, “But we are living in unity that persistently teaches unity, solidarity, brotherhood and humanity against discord, oppression, all kinds of turmoil, injustice, all negative feelings and thoughts. May God preserve our unity forever. May God not give opportunity to discord and evil. May God not give opportunity to all kinds of practices that trample human dignity and human dignity.” he said.
Arpaguş congratulated the guests on the upcoming Night of Power and wished that the holiday would bring goodness for all humanity.
Arpaguş thanked Edirne Governor Sezer for organizing the organization.
“Edirne is the center of a civilization”
Edirne Governor Sezer stated that they were happy to host the guests in Edirne on this meaningful day, where the bonds of love and respect were strengthened, spiritual feelings were revived, and unity, solidarity and cooperation reached the highest level.
Stating that they had the honor of coming together with friends from different countries, different religions and languages at the great table of hearts that united hearts, reduced distances and increased brotherhood in the organization organized for the third time as the Balkan Cities Cooperation Edirne Platform, Governor Sezer said:
“This city, where Meriç, Arda and Tunca, originating from the Balkans, meet, has been a bridge for the Balkan geography throughout history. Edirne is a center of civilization where different religions, beliefs and cultures live together. These lands, kneaded with the tolerance of Sarı Saltık, the affection of Hasan Sezai and the support of Mimar Sinan, are the eternal guarantee of the unshakable bond between the Balkan cities. Because our past is one, our future is one, Our values are common. When we gathered in this square in the past years, our beloved Selimiye was under restoration. Thank God, the longing wait is over. Selimiye, whose restoration was completed, was reopened for worship in all its glory.”
Sezer thanked President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the General Directorate of Foundations for supporting the restoration.
“The unifying side of Ramadan also showed itself in the organization”
Montenegrin Diaspora Minister Mirsad Azemovic stated that he felt at home every time he visited Türkiye and that he still feels the same today.
Stating that the unifying side of Ramadan also manifests itself in the organization, Azemovic said, “It is a matter of pride that Turkey is one of the first countries to recognize Montenegro, which celebrates the 20th anniversary of its independence. Another element that connects the two friendly countries is the Montenegrin diaspora. The diaspora serves as a bridge between the two friendly countries. May Ramadan bring us closer in unity and solidarity, and remind us that we will build a stronger future together.” he said.
Deputy Speaker of the Bulgarian Parliament Hayri Recebov Sadikov stated that the relations between the two neighboring countries, which have good relations, are increasing day by day and that he is happy to be at the iftar table of the beautiful community.
The program continued with the concert of hymns by the Edirne State Turkish Music and Rumelia Music Ensemble, and the concert performed in the spiritual atmosphere of Selimiye was followed with interest.
The Governorship Sema Group also took the stage and performed at the event.
Tekirdağ Governor Recep Soytürk, Kırklareli Governor Uğur Turan, CHP Edirne Deputy Ahmet Baran Yazgan, AK Party Edirne Deputy Fatma Aksal, Edirne Mayor Filiz Gencan, Kırklareli Mayor Derya Bulut, Trakya University Rector Prof. attended the iftar program. Dr. Mustafa Hatipler, Edirne Chief Public Prosecutor Tuğan Sarıca, Xanthi Elected Mufti Mustafa Trampa, Komotini Elected Mufti İbrahim Şerif, Bulgarian Grand Mufti Mustafa Hacı, Albanian opinion leader Admir Salmani, Romanian Muslims Mufti Murat Yusuf, Serbian Islamic Union Presidency Belgrade Mufti Muhammed Yusufpahiç, The Presidency of the Islamic Union of Serbia, Mufti of Niš Eldin Asçeric, Priest Arhimandrit Haralambi Niçe, President of the Orthodox Church Foundation of the Bulgarian Exarchate Dimitri Yotef, Bektashi grandfathers from Albania, consuls, members of parliament from the Balkan countries, representatives of political parties and non-governmental organizations attended.
