Işın Karaca performs at GAT Festival in Komotini
The festival kicked off with a DJ playing songs in Turkish, Greek, and English. As the concert was about to start, GAT President Emre Kamil took to the stage to address the crowd in both Greek and Turkish. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the festival's realization and shared his thoughts on the significance of the event:
"Welcome to our magnificent 12th concert in the heart of Komotini on this beautiful evening. We are delighted and honored to see you here. Welcome!
Today, we gather not just for a concert, but to showcase our unity and solidarity. By coming together in Komotini's historic square through the universal language of music, we will demonstrate the strength of our brotherhood and togetherness to the world.
This amazing crowd here today once again proves how strong and determined the Turkish youth of Western Thrace are. The enthusiastic support we receive from you multiplies the energy, effort, and hard work we put into this event, providing us with an indescribable source of happiness. Your energy and love inspire us to achieve even greater things.
As Turkish youth of Western Thrace, we have always acted in unity and solidarity throughout history. By standing shoulder to shoulder, we have overcome many challenges. Today, we move forward with the same belief and determination, looking to the future with hope. As GAT, we are working tirelessly to preserve our culture and values and pass them on to future generations.
As the Young Academics Association, we are aware of our responsibility as the center and roof of youth. We have made it our mission to always be by your side, walk with you, and undertake projects worthy of you. We strive to bring together meaningful events like this under this important roof, doing more than we can.
Tonight, we are not only showcasing a concert but also the best example of our brotherhood and solidarity. I once again sincerely thank you all for being with us, supporting us, and keeping this spirit of unity alive.
I also extend my gratitude to Türkiye’s Consul General in Komotini, Aykut Ünal, and BTAYTD President, DEB President, institution and organization leaders, and sponsors for their constant support.
Let's all feel the unifying power of music together on this beautiful evening. Let’s strengthen our unity and solidarity even further. With the belief that we will reach many more beautiful days together, looking to the future with hope and confidence, I greet you all with love and respect."
After the speech, renowned Turkish singer Işın Karaca took the stage. She received a warm welcome and thrilled the crowd with her performances.
Among those attending the GAT Festival were Türkiye’s Consul General in Komotini, Aykut Ünal, and his wife İlayda Ünal, who consistently support the Turkish youth of Western Thrace at such events. Other notable attendees included DEB Party President Çiğdem Asafoğlu, BTAYTD President Hüseyin Baltacı, GTGB President Sedat Hasan, and Ahmet Pehlivan, a member of the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Council.
