On June 18, 2026, the House of Culture of the Municipality of Comrat hosted the official opening ceremony of the XIII International TÜDAS 2026 Symposium and the “Kökümüz Bir, Türk’üz!” (“Our Roots Are One – We Are Turks!”) Festival. The events brought together representatives of the academic community, universities, and the Turkic world to promote cultural and academic cooperation.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by the Rector of Comrat State University, Assoc., prof. PhD Serghei Zaharia, representatives of partner universities, as well as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassadors of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan, together with official representatives of these countries. The speakers emphasized the importance of strengthening international dialogue, preserving the cultural heritage of Turkic peoples, and expanding cooperation in education and science.

As part of the festival program, artistic groups and university delegations presented cultural performances representing their countries. Participants included Ömer Halisdemir University of Niğde (Türkiye), Baku Eurasian University (Azerbaijan), Kazakh National Women’s Teacher Training University (Kazakhstan), and Comrat State University (Moldova). Guests showcased the traditions, music, and cultural heritage of their nations, creating an atmosphere of unity and friendship.

In the afternoon, a panel discussion moderated by Professor Dr. Necmi Uyanık was held. Scientific presentations included a report by Professor Dr. Muharrem Tuna on the digitalization of tourism in the Turkic world and a presentation by Professor Dr. Haşim Şahin on the role of Akhism and family values in Turkic culture.

The organization of TÜDAS 2026 has become an important platform for academic exchange, strengthening international ties, and developing joint educational initiatives.