Ankara, Apr.23 (SANA) Syria is participating for the first time in the TRT International Children’s Festival, which began on April 18 in the Turkish capital, Ankara, and continues until 24th.
The festival, a cultural and artistic event reflecting the richness and diversity of human heritage, features the participation of approximately 30 countries from around the world.
Syria is represented at the festival by an official delegation of 13 children, under the supervision of the Directorate of Children’s Culture at the Ministry of Culture. The children will present artistic performances inspired by Syrian heritage, including folk dances and traditional songs, as well as displays of paintings and handicrafts that reflect the creativity of Syrian children and the diversity of their cultural environment.
Syria showcases its heritage and strengthens its international cultural presence

Head of the Syrian delegation, Director of Children’s Culture Department at the Ministry of Culture, Zouheir al-Beri , told SANA that the Syrian participation presents a living example of national heritage through folk costumes, paintings, and folkloric performances, in a display that reflects the depth of Syrian cultural history.
“The festival, organized by TRT under the auspices of the Turkish Presidency, provides ample space for interaction among children from diverse cultures, contributing to the promotion of values of understanding, love, and peace, and solidifying the concept of cultural diversity as a bridge for communication between peoples,” al-Beri added.
A program rich in cultural activities
He noted that the festival program included a number of events and visits, including the Turkish Parliament, the Ankara Governor’s Office, the TRT building, in addition to daily open-air performances by participating groups.
Al-Beri emphasized that Syria’s participation in this festival for the first time comes within the framework of the Ministry of Culture’s vision, which places children at the forefront of its priorities, considering them the cornerstone of building society culturally and intellectually.
A comprehensive humanitarian message
He added that this participation carries a clear message that Syria, which has suffered greatly in recent years, is now giving special attention to childhood and striving to support it psychologically, culturally, and intellectually, thus contributing to preparing a generation capable of building the future.
He went on to say that the festival opens new horizons for children to learn about other cultures and promotes the values of dialogue and tolerance, which we are keen to instill in future generations.
The TRT Festival, held annually to coincide with Children’s Day in Türkiye, serves as an international platform that brings together children from around the world in a shared humanitarian message, affirming that childhood is the broadest human common denominator and that investing in children’s culture is an investment in a more peaceful and cooperative future.
MZN