The “Denktaş in London” exhibition has opened at the Yunus Emre Institute, showcasing the life and legacy of Rauf Denktaş, the founding president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The exhibition features 250 photographs from Denktaş’s extensive personal archive, along with his reflections on Cyprus’ history and his life. Attendees included notable figures such as Türkiye’s London Ambassador Osman Koray Ertaş and TRNC representative Çimen Keskin, who highlighted Denktaş’s commitment to justice and independence for the Turkish Cypriot people. Ambassador Ertaş underscored the exhibition’s importance, reflecting on Denktaş’s impact as both a leader and a humanist: “Here, we are not just seeing the life of a leader who devoted himself to his country, but also the life of an elegant gentleman, a man of peace and a person who deeply valued human emotions.” TRNC representative Keskin praised Denktaş’s contributions to equality and freedom, stating, “This exhibition tells the story of the Turkish Cypriot people’s struggle for freedom and independence.” The exhibition will remain open to the public until 30 November 2024, welcoming visitors on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It features not only Denktaş’s writings but also photographs he personally took, adding a unique perspective to the portrayal of Cyprus’ history. The exhibition is also available for online viewing, broadening its accessibility.

Rauf Denktaş played a critical role in the history of Cyprus, particularly in advocating for the rights and independence of the Turkish Cypriot community. As the founding president of the TRNC, he engaged in numerous diplomatic efforts on behalf of Turkish Cypriots. The exhibition serves to honour his contributions and convey his personal story alongside the narrative of the Turkish Cypriot struggle for recognition and rights, making it a significant cultural event.

The “Denktaş in London” exhibition not only honours Rauf Denktaş’s legacy through an impressive display of photographs and personal reflections but also educates visitors on the ongoing history of Turkish Cypriots. Significant speeches and acknowledgments from key figures highlighted Denktaş’s inspirational role for Turkish Cypriots and the wider Turkish community. This exhibition stands as a testament to his enduring influence and the historical struggle for freedom.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com

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An exhibition celebrating Rauf Denktas, the founding president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), has launched at the Yunus Emre Institute in London. Titled “Denktas in London”, the exhibit includes photographs, quotes, and memorabilia representing Denktas’s legacy and the history of Cyprus. Türkiye’s Ambassador to London, Osman Koray Ertas, along with other dignitaries, attended the opening, where Ertas described the exhibition as “not only the story of a life but the story of a cause”. The display features 250 rare photographs and is open until 30 November, weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Rauf Denktas was a prominent Turkish Cypriot politician who played a crucial role in the establishment of the TRNC in 1983, following years of conflict and division in Cyprus. As a symbolic figure, Denktas worked to advocate for the Turkish Cypriots’ political and cultural rights. The exhibition in London seeks to highlight both his personal contributions and the broader historical context of the Turkish Cypriots’ aspirations.

The exhibition, showcasing the significant life of Rauf Denktas, serves as a cultural touchstone for the Turkish Cypriot community and educates visitors about the complex history of Cyprus. By combining personal memorabilia and historical context, it emphasises Denktas’s enduring impact on Turkish Cypriot identity and politics.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr

The post Exhibition on Rauf Denktas Opens in London, Celebrating TRNC’s Founding President first appeared on The London Bell.