Mission

The Foreign Relations Department of Keçiören Municipality carries out activities to promote our municipality internationally, establish cooperation and sister city relations with other cities, and create opportunities for collaboration in cultural, social, and economic projects. Our mission is to promote Keçiören on a global scale and to support international projects that will enhance the quality of life of our citizens.

Vision

The Foreign Relations Department aims to increase Keçiören’s value at the international level, contribute to local development by establishing global partnerships through sustainable and innovative projects, and strengthen international collaboration. Our vision is to turn Keçiören into an active actor on international platforms and to play a pioneering role in intercity relations.

Activities of the Foreign Relations Department

1. Sister City Relations

Within the scope of sister city relations, existing protocols are monitored and updated when necessary; regular communication is maintained with the relevant cities, and joint project development processes are carried out. In this context, mutual cultural understanding and cooperation are strengthened through joint cultural events, youth exchange programs, and thematic activities; bilateral visit programs are organized to support the sustainability of these relations.

2. International Projects

Within the scope of international projects, project proposals are prepared for programs such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and similar European Union initiatives; coordination is ensured effectively for approved projects, and reporting, monitoring, and budget management are carried out. New grant calls are regularly followed; strategic partnerships are established with suitable partners, and required official correspondence with national agencies and the European Commission is conducted.

3. Cultural Activities

Within the framework of cultural diplomacy activities, foreign guest delegations are hosted and visit programs are prepared; festivals and cultural days focused on the Turkic World are professionally organized. Additionally, sustainable collaborations are established with international artists and cultural groups; exhibitions, concerts, and workshops that contribute to the promotion of cultural heritage are planned and implemented.

4. Communication and Promotion

In line with international promotion and corporate communication strategies, multilingual content is regularly published through social media and the institutional website; films, brochures, and catalogs promoting the institution’s activities are prepared and delivered to relevant target audiences. Direct communication is established with international media organizations, press releases are prepared and published, and corporate representation activities are planned for fairs, conferences, and similar events held abroad.

5. Training and Knowledge Sharing

Training programs on project development, implementation, and reporting processes are organized for municipal personnel; seminars enabling knowledge and experience sharing with experts from sister cities are held. Best practice examples recognized at the international level are examined and adapted to local government processes; workshops and panels are organized on themes such as youth, environment, and digital transformation.

6. Networking

Within the scope of cooperation with international local government networks, active membership is maintained in platforms such as UCLG (United Cities and Local Governments), ALDA (European Association for Local Democracy), and the Union of Turkish World Municipalities; moreover, processes for signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with civil society organizations and universities are carried out. Preliminary meetings are held to establish institutional partnerships, mutual visits are organized, and letters of intent are prepared. To support these processes, regular participation in international network meetings is ensured and institutional representation is provided.