ISTANBUL - Nearly 800 young people from 22 countries, who attended ''The Fourth International Culture and Art Festival'' held by Buyukcekmece Municipality, marched for ''Friendship and Peace'' on Monday.
The march in which youngsters from countries including Greece, Spain, Azerbaijan, Romania, Macedonia, Portugal, Lebanon and Germany attended with traditional costumes, started in Odakule.
Participants performed folk dances during the march continuing through Istiklal Street.
The march, in which Mayor Hasan Akgun also attended, ended with placing wreath to Taksim Republic Monument.
Releasing a statement to reporters, Akgun said that they would hold ''country nights'' for foreign guest to promote their own cultures in the festival which would continue until July 6.
Noting that participant countries would promote their foods, handicrafts and statues besides their folk dances during the festival, Akgun said, ''our main aim is to make contribution to friendship and world peace. And to see youngsters as honorary culture ambassadors in their countries by promoting our hospitality, country and culture while doing this.''
Akgun said that they would organize a big water sports activity as the festival was held at the same time with Cabotage Bairam and added that they would also hold concerts, poem performances and various competitions.
(GC-AÖ) 30.06.2003