The "Journey to the Sun with RUPAM" program, organized by the Center for Global Policy Research and Implementation (RUPAM) at Istanbul Rumeli University, was held with great interest in the Akın Akkan Conference Hall at our Mehmet Balcı Campus.
The guest speaker of the talk was Retired Ambassador Uluc Özülker, and the event was attended by Board Member Sadun Yavuz, our Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kara, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ömer Çetin, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences Prof. Dr. Ahmet Can, and Dean of the Faculty of Economic, Administrative and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Ahmet Mucip Gökçen.
In his speech titled "Atatürk and Turkish Foreign Policy," Özülker discussed the strategies followed by Atatürk in international relations and his vision for a peace-based foreign policy.
Özülker emphasized the importance of diplomacy and negotiation in human history, stating, "Diplomacy is a process that evolves alongside societal development and aims to establish peace. Wars are never a permanent solution; the real solution lies in dialogue and negotiation." He also noted that wars can have devastating consequences even for the winning side, emphasizing that peace can only be achieved through mutual understanding.
RUPAM Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Süleyman Özmen remarked, "Through such events, we aim to inspire our students and participants and contribute to their personal and professional development. We believe that Mr. Uluc Özülker's experiences serve as a valuable guide." Program Coordinator Yiğit Er Yiğit added, "The Journey to the Sun Program, which we initiated based on the requests and encouragement of young people, aims to connect inspiring content with the community. Mr. Özülker’s participation is an important step towards this goal."
The talk concluded by providing participants with insights into Atatürk’s vision for foreign policy and an important perspective on contemporary diplomacy.
The event was broadcast online via Zoom and YouTube, in addition to in-person attendance. Those who missed it can access the video recording on the official YouTube channel of Istanbul Rumeli University.
