Suroyo TV celebrates 20th Anniversary in Medyad, Turkey, honoring Syriac culture and community

MEDYAD, Turkey — On 15 September, the 20th anniversary of the founding of Suroyo TV was celebrated for the first time in Medyad (Midyat), Turkey, in the historic region of Tur Abdin. The event took place at the Akitu Hotel and was hosted by Shamiram Mecida.

Syriac artists Murad Karam and Augeen Tadaris performed traditional folk dance songs, adding a festive spirit to the occasion.

Speeches were delivered by Manuela Demir, Co-Chair of the European Syriac Union (ESU), and Evgil Türker, President of the Federation of Syriac Associations in Turkey (SÜDEF). They emphasized Suroyo TV’s pivotal role over the past two decades and the significance of holding the celebration in Tur Abdin, particularly in Medyad.

A congratulatory telegram from the Presidential Committee of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB) was also read during the event, reinforcing the importance of the milestone.

One of the original founders of Suroyo TV, Musa Dahhike, was honored with a commemorative gift presented by Kenan Qasho Malke.

Suroyo TV also recognized seven individuals and institutions for their service to the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people and their contributions to Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) culture. Honorees included Dr. Demian Emiktash from the Greek Orthodox Church in Antioch, Yusuf Türker of the Medyad Church Endowments, professor and researcher Yusuf Bektas, lawyer Ilhan Aydin, Ninos Turgay, the SÜDEF organization, and the Syriac Sabro Magazine.

The celebration attracted over 700 attendees, creating a joyful atmosphere and bringing together Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people from both the homeland and the diaspora in the land of their ancestors.

The next Suroyo TV celebration will be held in Giessen, Germany, on 5 October.