Malatya Promotion Days Open at Istanbul Airport

The 8th Traditional Malatya Promotion Days began at Istanbul Atatürk Airport to introduce the province's historical, cultural, and touristic values to a wider audience. Governor Seddar Yavuz, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Dr. Coşkun Yılmaz, Istanbul MP Halis Dalkılıç, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül, Malatya Metropolitan Mayor Sami Er, and MADEF President Yılmaz Durmus attended the opening program.

Governor Yavuz said the February 6 earthquakes were one of the greatest trials faced by the nation and state. He stated that under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's leadership, institutions worked day and night to heal citizens' wounds. He noted that 400 hectares of land were cleared within about three months and homes, workplaces, and rural settlements were rebuilt.

“Unity and solidarity is our red line.”

Yeşilyurt Municipality opened a booth at the event to present the district's culinary culture, regional flavors, and hospitality to visitors and expatriates. The booth, organized by the Culture, Arts, and Social Services Directorate, offers Malatya cheese, tandir, bilik bread, yogurt soup, and world-famous Malatya apricots.

Yeşilyurt Mayor Prof. Dr. Ilhan Gecit said 42,500 homes and workplaces were built in the district, 12,500 transformation sites were reached, and about 9,000 strengthening permits were issued. He noted that Yeşilyurt was among the central districts most heavily damaged by the February 6 earthquakes, ranking second after Antakya.

Mayor Gecit stated that 1,370 independent units had been tendered when he took office. He emphasized that unity and solidarity remain a red line for Malatya. He thanked MADEF and all contributing institutions for organizing the event.

Yeşilyurt Deputy Mayor Sabri Akin said the municipality values participation in such organizations. He added that the strong interest in the booth made them very happy and that expatriates had the opportunity to ease their longing for home while learning about the district's investments and cultural values.