Just as Arabic, French, and other language days are celebrated worldwide, Turkish Language Day should also be recognized, Professor Ocal Oguz, the Chair of UNESCO's Türkiye National Commission, told Report.
Professor Oguz noted that international events are now being translated into Turkish, stating, "First and foremost, we must closely study the ancient culture of the Turkic states within our own borders. Additionally, our institutions such as the International Turkic Academy, the Turkish Culture and Heritage Foundation, and others should work hand in hand to promote the heritage of the Turkic peoples worldwide."
He stated that one of the most significant events in this regard was the international conference dedicated to "Dīwān Lughāt al-Turk" - the first encyclopedic dictionary of Turkish languages, written by an outstanding scientist of the Turkic world, Mahmud Kashgari in the XI century, held at the UNESCO level.
Mahmud Kashgari, even in his time, stated that Arabic-speaking peoples needed to learn the Turkish language for the development of mutual relations. It is a remarkable event that this international event has been translated not only into the official UN languages of Russian, English, and French but also into Turkish.
Professor Oguz suggested that December 15 should be declared as Turkish Language Day worldwide, stating, "We propose to celebrate the day when Danish scholar Thomson said, 'I have finished studying the Turkic alphabet' on December 15 as Turkish Language Day. We are considering putting forward this proposal to UNESCO. Just as Arabic, French, and other language days are celebrated worldwide, Turkish Language Day should also be celebrated."