ANKARA – Turkey’s capital, Ankara, has been officially selected as the “Tourism Capital of the Turkic World” for the year 2026, following a joint decision made during the 10th Meeting of the Ministers of Tourism of the Organization of Turkic States.
Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the designation through his official social media account, celebrating Ankara’s new title and the recognition of its deep-rooted heritage.
“With its history, culture, and spirit, this title suits our capital perfectly,” Minister Ersoy stated. “During today’s meeting of the Turkic States’ Ministers of Tourism, a unanimous decision was made to declare Ankara the ‘Tourism Capital of the Turkic World’ for 2026.”
Highlighting Ankara’s historical and cultural richness, Ersoy emphasized the city’s significance within the shared memory of the Turkic world:
“From Gordion to Anıtkabir, from the Roman Baths to CSO Ada Ankara, with its museums, art institutions, and cultural diversity, Ankara is one of our treasured cities that reflects the collective heritage of the Turkic world. This ancient capital, rising from the heart of Anatolia, will now serve not only as a symbol of Turkey’s culture and tourism, but also as a showcase for the entire Turkic world.”
The minister further expressed the government’s commitment to promoting Ankara throughout 2026 as a vibrant destination:
“Together, we will continue to explore Ankara throughout the year and bring its rich cultural values to our brotherly nations.”
A Regional Celebration of Unity and Heritage
The announcement has been welcomed by political leaders and stakeholders across Turkey. Kürşad Zorlu, Deputy Chairman of the AK Party and Head of Relations with Turkic States, shared his congratulations via social media:
“Congratulations to Ankara,” Zorlu wrote, extending thanks to Minister Ersoy, the Tourism Ministers of the Turkic States, and the Secretary-General of the Organization of Turkic States, Kuban Omuraliev.
Zorlu emphasized the importance of this title as an opportunity for Ankara to enhance its position in the tourism sector:
“It is now time to implement projects and initiatives that will strengthen our capital’s position in tourism by 2026. Our department will also contribute to these efforts. Once again, congratulations to Ankara.”
The selection of Ankara is expected to bring increased international attention to the city, highlighting its potential as a cultural and tourism hub not only for Turkey but for the entire Turkic world.
