Kastamonu Platform Sends a Strong Message in Istanbul! "Regional Representation Will Increase"
The Kastamonu Platform held its management meeting at the Polat Bosphorus Hotel in Istanbul with the strong participation of representatives from the business world, politics, and civil society. At the meeting, Platform President Haydar Çolakoğlu shared with the public the key theme that will shape Kastamonu's future: "Increasing regional representation by considering the Western Black Sea region as a whole."
The Kastamonu Platform, backed by the strength of the Kastamonu population living in Istanbul, which constitutes the second largest group of fellow citizens, strengthened the spirit of unity, togetherness, and solidarity among the Western Black Sea region and also served as the venue for important consultations that outlined a roadmap for the future, involving all stakeholders. Numerous prominent figures from the business, political, civil society, and art worlds attended the meeting.
HAYDAR ÇOLAKOĞLU: WE ARE DETERMINED TO PRODUCE STRONGER PROJECTS
Speaking in front of the cameras at the opening of the evening, President Haydar Çolakoğlu emphasized the Platform's recent progress and culture of unity, while delivering a powerful message that guided the entire hall: "We are determined to produce stronger projects befitting Kastamonu, the Western Black Sea region, and the sense of community." Our aim is not only to improve Kastamonu in the social sphere, but also to ensure its progress in the economic and political spheres. "Our goal is to increase our strength with more representatives in economic, artistic, sports, political, and cultural arenas."
Throughout the meeting, participants exchanged views on many topics ranging from the preservation of the city's cultural heritage to social projects and strengthening institutional structures. Issues concerning the Western Black Sea region and relations with community platforms in other regions of Türkiye were discussed. In particular, it was decided to support the dynamic work of youth and the Youth Branches, which play a key role in the future of the Platform, and to increase the representation of young people within the platform.
Furthermore, the goals of bringing women and female entrepreneurs to the forefront in the social and economic spheres, supporting them, and ensuring their more active role in the management of the platform were discussed. The life story and contemporary significance of Şehit Şerife Bacı, a source of pride for Kastamonu and Turkish women, were revisited.
In addition, detailed studies were conducted on steps to be taken to highlight Kastamonu's unique nature and history, to reveal and better promote its tourism potential that will contribute to the region. Finally, the platform's social vision was discussed through art projects that will reflect Kastamonu's cultural richness. It was decided to expand it.
Haydar Çolakoğlu, who delivered a noteworthy message of unity and vision in his opening speech, also drew attention to the strategic importance of the Western Black Sea region, stating:
"We must consider the Western Black Sea as a whole; we must create a strong regional alliance that mutually supports each other economically, socially, culturally, and politically. Kastamonu's regional leadership will be possible with the strengthening of the Western Black Sea region." "The Western Black Sea provinces, as a whole, constitute the largest population group in Istanbul."
"AN IMPORTANT STEP TAKEN TO INCREASE KASTAMONU'S ECONOMIC POWER TO A LARGER SCALE"
Honorary President, Rector of Sabahattin Zaim University and Member of the Presidential Education Policies Board, Ahmet Cevat Acar, delivered a message of unity and solidarity.
Vice Presidents Burcu Kösem, Mehmet Umur, and Muhittin Tığlı summarized the platform's new vision in their joint statement with the following sentence:
"We are no longer just an organization that holds gatherings of fellow citizens; we are a powerful organization that guides the business world, develops strategies, and whose influence is felt throughout Turkey." Today's consultation is an important step taken to expand Kastamonu's economic power to a larger scale.
Businesspeople, NGO presidents, and press representatives who attended the meeting drew attention to Kastamonu's strong potential in agriculture, forestry products, tourism, and entrepreneurship, stating that the development of the region depends on addressing the Western Black Sea region with a holistic approach.
At the end of the evening, a message was given, referring to İnebolu, the only district to receive the Independence Medal, and the sacrifice of Şerife Bacı, stating, "We will continue to produce, work, and strengthen together for Kastamonu and our country." The meeting, which concluded with a thank-you speech by President Haydar Çolakoğlu, decided to prepare comprehensive working files based on the suggestions arising from the consultations.
The feedback received at the organization, led by President Haydar Çolakoğlu, indicates that the Kastamonu Platform will be both the voice of the large number of fellow citizens living in Istanbul and will make its work throughout Turkey more visible, more effective, and more inclusive of all segments of society. This shows it will move to a more inclusive dimension, embracing more.
