One of the parks in Istanbul was named after famous founder of Turkish and Kazakh taekwondo schools Mustafa Ozturk. It was opened during the Small Kurultai of Kazakhs dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s Independence. The park is located in the historical district Bagcilar, where many Kazakhs live. As part of the event, a play about the life of Mustafa Ozturk was performed to those who came. A master class of young athletes was held as well.
“After Kazakhstan gained independence he returned to his homeland to serve his country and people. You can see infinite love in his words. Here’s what he said: “I was able to see the whole world and my country. The difference is huge. I stayed in Kazakhstan to serve it,” said Alim Bayel, Consul General of Kazakhstan in Istanbul.
“I was delighted to read my father’s name at the entrance to the park today. Me and my father were born and grew up here. Most of the Kazakhs in Istanbul return to their origins. I am very happy that my father’s name will remain here forever,” said Neslihan Ozturk, daughter of Mustafa Ozturk.
Translation by Saniya Sakenova
Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova
