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BODRUM MANDARIN FESTIVAL HELD IN A BITTER ATMOSPHERE

25.12.2023

The Bodrum Mandarin Festival, organized as part of Mandarin Week, took on a poignant atmosphere as it commemorated the martyrs who lost their lives in a tragic terrorist attack, prompting the cancellation of concerts and competitions.

Held on December 24th, Sunday, at Bitez Old Town Square, the festival was orchestrated by Bitez Neighborhood Head with the backing of Bodrum District Governorship and Municipality.

The event was attended by the Bodrum Governor Mustafa Çit, Mayor Ahmet Aras, deputy mayors, CHP Bodrum District Chairman Tuna Işın, municipal council members, municipal department directors, Bitez Neighborhood Head Seda Özgüçlü, mandarin producers, press members and citizens.

Music Broadcast Suspended

Following a moment of silence and the rendition of the National Anthem during the opening speeches, homage was paid to the 12 martyrs who fell in the Pençe-Kilit Operation. Concerts, competitions and folk dances were canceled at the festival, with only stands being set up.

Throughout the event, Deputy Mayor Tayfun Yılmaz, District Agricultural Director Durmuş Çakır, Bitez Neighborhood Head Seda Özgüçlü, Erman Aras from ‘Bodrum Yadigarı’ local brand and BITAV (Bitez Association for the Preservation of Nature & Cultural Assets) Chairman Mustafa Menkü engaged in a discussion about mandarins with Ibrahim Çömez, a local, shedding light on Bodrum's distinctive value.

Mayor Ahmet Aras, initiating his speech by honoring the martyrs, emphasized the significance of Bodrum mandarins, stating:

"The events of the past two days have deeply saddened and wounded us. Firstly, I extend my condolences to the families of my comrades-in-arms, the Mehmetçiks, who sacrificed their blood and lives in the defense of our sacred homeland. May Allah grant them mercy, offer solace to their families and grant them patience.

Mandarin is not just a fruit; it's a cultural legacy. We highly value its preservation and passing it down to future generations. My sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the event and worked towards preserving Bodrum Mandarin."

Bodrum District Governor Mustafa Çit expressed their sorrow over the martyrs who have weighed on their hearts for the past two days, paying tribute to all the martyrs with mercy. Governor Çit declared, "Terror will not break us; we will break the back of terrorism. Thank you all for supporting local products. You are fulfilling a very important and sacred duty.”