Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality Co-Mayors Serra Bucak and Doğan Hatun attended the 28th International Dentistry Congress organised by the Turkish Dental Association. Bucak stated that the congress was not only an academic event but also an important organisation that brought together the city’s culture and tourism.

The 28th International Dentistry Congress, organised by the Turkish Dental Association in collaboration with Diyarbakır Chamber of Dentists, began at Dicle University Congress Centre. The congress, which will continue until 21 September, was opened with a folk dance performance.

‘We are Honoured to Host This Event’

In her speech at the opening of the congress, Co-Mayor Bucak greeted the participants and expressed great honour in hosting such an event in Diyarbakır, one of the most ancient cities of Mesopotamia. Drawing attention to the city’s historical and cultural heritage, Co-Mayor Bucak said:

“This ancient city, the heart of discoveries and firsts, the place of the first wheat, the first settlements, the first humanity, today continues to serve as an example to our region and other cities with its democratic, peaceful and tolerant perspective. We are extremely pleased that you are here in our ancient city.”

‘The Congress Brings Together Culture and Tourism’

Speaking about the three-day congress, Co-Mayor Bucak said: “We know that the beloved Diyarbakır Chamber of Dentists administration is not only organising an academic gathering with you, but also a cultural and tourism gathering. For this reason, I wish and hope that you will also see and experience these ancient and historic places of ours and take beautiful memories with you.”

Addressing the participants, she added: “Dear guests, esteemed academics, doctors and professors, I wish you a productive congress over these three days, one illuminated by the light of science and academia, with important discussions taking place among you for the field of oral and dental health.”

‘Diyarbakır Hosts Many Historical Sites’

In her speech, Bucak underlined that Diyarbakır is home to many historical sites, from İçkale to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city walls, from Hevsel Gardens to Çayönü, Hilar Caves, Kortiktepe and Zerzevan Castle. She pointed out that the congress was not only a scientific but also a cultural gathering, saying: “Our Diyarbakır Chamber of Dentists and the Turkish Dental Association have prepared a highly valuable programme. In addition to scientific discussions, they are also presenting the cultural riches of our city to our guests. I thank everyone who contributed.”

Bucak also thanked all institutions, non-governmental organisations and chambers that contributed to the congress and wished for fruitful outcomes.

Following the opening speeches, Co-Mayors Bucak and Hatun toured the stands set up in the congress centre.

The congress was attended by Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality Co-Mayors Serra Bucak and Doğan Hatun, DEM Party MP Sevilay Çelenk, AK Party MP Suna Kepolu Ataman, Diyarbakır Governor Murat Zorluoğlu, Dicle University Rector Prof. Dr. Kamuran Eronat, Turkish Dental Association President Fatih Güler, district municipality co-mayors, and representatives of non-governmental organisations.