Chisinau’s Mihail Ciachir Library Renovated with TİKA’s Support

The Mihail Ciachir Library in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, which promotes Gagauz culture, literature, history and traditions, has been renovated and officially reopened with the support of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA).

Established in 1992 within the B.P. Hasdeu Municipal Library, the facility underwent comprehensive renovation and modernization as part of TİKA’s restoration project.

The opening ceremony was attended by Chisinau Mayor, Ion Ceban; TİKA’s Vice President, Dr. Mahmut Çevik; Türkiye’s Ambassador to Chisinau, Uygar Mustafa Sertel; as well as members of the Moldovan Writers’ Union, scholars, academicians, and representatives of relevant institutions.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban highlighted the successful projects implemented by TİKA in the city and stated:

“We have collaborated with TİKA in various fields, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and culture. These projects have made significant contributions to the people of Chisinau. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to TİKA for its support.”

“We are happy to contribute to Gagauz culture”

TİKA’s Vice President Dr. Mahmut Çevik shared his thoughts on the project, stating:

“Today, we are inaugurating a library named after Mihail Ciachir, a prominent figure in intellectual and religious Gagauz history. We are honored to contribute to a project dedicated to this distinguished individual, who devoted his life to the development of the Gagauz language and history and made contributions to Moldovan literature.”

About Mihail Ciachir

Mihail Ciachir was one of the most influential figures in Bessarabia’s cultural, educational, scientific, journalistic, and religious life in the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries. A prominent intellectual of Gagauz origin, he dedicated his life to educating diverse communities in Bessarabia, promoting literacy in both religious studies and native languages.

He is also recognized for his spiritual and moral leadership among the Gagauz people. His extensive research on the Gagauz language and history and his efforts to introduce the Gagauz culture to the world were instrumental, as reflected in the first books and newspapers published in Gagauz Turkish.

Respected throughout Moldova, especially in Gagauzia, Mihail Ciachir stands as a symbol of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among different cultures.