Turkic peoples' crucial role in bridging East-West spotlighted at forum

Turkic factor, Turkic peoples played an exceptional role between Eastern and Western civilizations.

President of the International Turkic Academy, Professor Shahin Mustafayev told the 8th panel session of the second day of the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku on the topic “Uniting Horizons: Modern Trends and Global Impact of the Silk Road Program”, Report says.

“We have to define the role of the Turkic world and Azerbaijan on the Silk Road. History includes global projects in the realization of which Turkic nations have also played a role. The Silk Road is one of them. The way to Eurasia was opened through the Silk Road. The spread of Turkic language and culture to Eurasia was also through the Silk Road. Azerbaijan is historically located in its main section. This route influenced political, economic, and cultural relations and contributed to Azerbaijan becoming a landmark place,” he said.

UNESCO Silk Roads Program Specialist Mehrdad Shahabang spoke about the geographical scope of the Silk Road.

“The Silk Road went all the way to Anatolia. It played a huge role in international communication and technological progress in general.”

Shahabang added that the route also facilitated the integration of many cultures.

“For example, tea was used as a medicine in East Asia, but as it traveled along the Silk Road to different regions, it began to be used as a traditional beverage when receiving guests to show their hospitality.”