Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality continues to participate in capacity-building and cultural exchange programs within the framework of its cooperation with international local government networks.

In this regard, IMM participated in the fifth edition of the “Xi’an – UCLG ASPAC Chinese Language Training Program”, organized under the umbrella of UCLG ASPAC by the Foreign Affairs Office of Xi’an Municipal People’s Government and the International School of Chinese Language and Culture of Shaanxi Normal University.

Held online, the program offered comprehensive content on Chinese language training, Chinese culture, daily life practices, and intercultural communication. Approximately 300 participants from 8 countries took part in the 32-hour program. Beyond language learning, the program contributed to the development of professional contacts and the strengthening of cultural exchange among representatives of local governments and public institutions from different countries.

Deniz Över, a staff member of IMM’s Directorate of Lifelong Learning, successfully completed the program and was awarded the title of “Outstanding Trainee.” This title, granted to only 5 participants among approximately 300 trainees, highlighted IMM’s strong representation in international capacity-building programs. Över also delivered a speech on behalf of the international participants at the closing ceremony of the program.