Kars Hosts International Erasmus+ Project; Connecting Cultures in Eastern Turkey

International Project Begins in the Heart of Kars The city of Kars, known for its historical and cultural fabric, is hosting a significant international event this week under the Erasmus+ program. This project, titled "Increasing the Capacity of Youth Workers through Training Workshops" and identified by the code KA153-YOU, has brought together representatives from five different countries [1]. According to reports published by local media, including "Gazete Rize," this program provides an exceptional opportunity for the exchange of knowledge and experience among youth workers.

Participation of Various Countries and Meeting with Officials In this round of programs, participants from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Tunisia, North Macedonia, and Italy are present. Ziya Polat, the Governor of Kars, emphasized the importance of such projects in the personal and professional development of youth during an official meeting with this international delegation at the Governor's Office [2]. During this meeting, attended by Mehmet Başköylü, the Provincial Director of Youth and Sports, the Governor of Kars noted that the city, with its ancient history, has always been a bridge between civilizations and is fully prepared to host global events [4].

Main Project Axes: From Technology to Environment The current project in Kars is not limited to cultural exchange; it follows important strategic themes based on the Erasmus+ program priorities for the 2021-2027 period. These axes include: - Digital Transformation: Familiarizing youth with modern tools and media literacy. - Environment and Climate Change: Promoting environmental awareness and sustainable development. - Social Inclusion and Diversity: Strengthening the spirit of accepting cultural and religious differences [3].

During their stay in Kars, participants attend specialized workshops and visit the city's historical sites to become closely acquainted with the region's cultural heritage. These interactions will lead to the creation of new cooperation networks among non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the participating countries [1].

Long-term Impacts on the Region Kars hosting such projects, in addition to the educational benefits for participants, significantly contributes to introducing the city's tourism and cultural potential at an international level. Local authorities hope that by continuing these programs, Kars will become one of the main hubs for youth activities in the Eurasia region [3]. This project, implemented with the support of the European Union and the Turkish National Agency, is considered a major step toward strengthening public diplomacy and friendly ties between nations [4].