Young Western Thracians visit the Hellenic Parliament in Athens

Members of the Young Academics Community (GAT) operating under the Association of Western Thrace Minority Graduates (BTAYTD) participated in an educational trip to Athens from October 22–25, 2025.

The delegation included members of GAT’s Law Group, as well as students studying international relations, history, and primary education. As part of their program, the group first visited the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon Temple, gaining insight into Greece’s ancient heritage.

Visit to the Hellenic Parliament

During their visit to the Hellenic Parliament, the students met with Rhodope MP Özgür Ferhat and had the opportunity to observe a parliamentary session. They also met Parliament Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis, to whom they presented gifts. Guided by an official escort, the group toured the Parliament building and learned about its history and functions.

Meeting at the Turkish Embassy in Athens

As part of the educational program, the Western Thracian students paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Athens, where they met with Ambassador Çağatay Erciyes and Counsellor Sadık Tabar.
Discussions emphasized the importance of Western Thrace for regional peace, the rights of the Turkish Minority in Greece, and the key role of youth in shaping the community’s future.

Honoring Fallen Soldiers and Exploring Ottoman Heritage

The group also visited the Turkish Military Cemetery in Piraeus, paying their respects to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Balkan Wars, World War I, and the Turkish War of Independence.

The final stop of the trip included visits to the Cizderiyeli Mustafa Ağa Mosque and the Fethiye Mosque in Athens’ Monastiraki and Plaka districts—both historical Ottoman-era structures now serving as public museums.

At the end of their trip, GAT members expressed gratitude to all individuals and institutions who contributed to the success of their educational visit.