Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Muslims should be allowed to integrate into the societies where they live without being expected to abandon their language, culture or roots.
"Unfortunately, there are problems in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe. Muslims are expected not to integrate but to assimilate. We say 'yes' to integration and 'no' to every form of assimilation," Erdogan said.
He made the remarks at an event organised by the Turkish-American National Steering Committee (TASC), the Union of International Democrats (UID), the Independent Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (MUSIAD) and the US Council of Muslim Organisations (USCMO) at Gotham Hall in New York.
He said members of the Turkish community can strengthen their place in political, economic, social and cultural life while maintaining their language, culture and ties with their homeland.
"Learning their own language and culture and maintaining their ties with their homeland is not an obstacle to integration," Erdogan said.
He called for stronger representation of Turkish Americans in politics, business, academia, culture and the arts, saying individual achievements should develop into strong institutions and lasting structures that can be passed from one generation to another.
Erdogan said stronger communities can help combat anti-Muslim sentiment, xenophobia and discrimination.
Urges participation in US midterms
Erdogan also addressed the upcoming US midterm elections, urging citizens to exercise their democratic rights and make their voices heard.
"I call on all our citizens to exercise their democratic rights in the upcoming midterm elections. It is very, very important that you reflect your will at the ballot box at the highest level," he said.
He urged members of the community to continue their activities in the US with unity, solidarity and a sense of brotherhood.
Erdogan also praised the work of TASC and other civil society organisations and said Türkiye would continue to support Turkish citizens and communities in the US.
"I want you to know that Türkiye and we will always stand by you and are ready to provide you with every kind of support," he said.
