The Research Center for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA) presented Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan with its patronage of intercultural dialogue award at a ceremony held at the Feriye Restaurant in Istanbul in February 2007. The honor was conferred by Organization of the Islamic Conference Secretary General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu and IRCICA Director General Halit Eren.
Speaking at the event, Erdoğan argued that technological progress alone cannot resolve humanity's most pressing challenges, including hunger, poverty, disease, and violence. He warned that extremists seeking to exploit cultural and religious differences risk pushing the international community toward a dangerous new division.
Erdoğan recalled the Alliance of Civilizations initiative he launched jointly with Spanish Prime Minister Zapatero, describing it as a concrete effort to highlight shared values across cultures. He noted that an implementation plan is being developed through the UN Secretary General's office and pledged Türkiye's continued commitment to the project.
Tatarstan President Mintimer Shaeymiev also addressed the gathering, expressing appreciation for Türkiye's recent economic and social progress. Eren underscored culture's growing importance in building mutual understanding, and credited Türkiye with playing a significant role in IRCICA's work.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in February 2007, in its own words.