On August 26, 2025, the Marmara Group Foundation organized the workshop titled “The 80th Anniversary of the Great Peace” at the historic Sait Halim Pasha Mansion in Istanbul, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

The event began with a video message from Sheikh ul-Islam of Azerbaijan, Allahshukur Pashazade. The opening remarks were delivered by Marmara Group Foundation Executive Council Member Lale Aytanç Nalbant, and the workshop was moderated by the Foundation’s Secretary General, Sezgin Bilgiç. Distinguished speakers from the worlds of academia and diplomacy contributed to the program:Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı reflected on the origins, development, and outcomes of the Second World War, highlighting the long-lasting effects of the war and peace through historical examples.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Ünal analyzed the shifting global balances in the post-war era, emphasizing that today’s world is moving toward a multipolar structure where emerging economies play a critical role in the balance of power.

Prof. Dr. Nilüfer Narlı shed light on the often-overlooked contributions of women during the war and discussed the profound impact the post-war period had on women’s lives.
Mr. Wei Xiaodong, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Istanbul, shared his perspectives on the importance of justice and peace in international relations.

The conference brought together more than three hundred distinguished guests, including chiefs of foreign missions, academics, and business leaders. At the conclusion of the workshop, Dr. Akkan Suver, President of the Marmara Group Foundation, presented commemorative gifts to the speakers in appreciation of their contributions.

He reaffirmed the Marmara Group Foundation’s commitment to safeguarding peace and fostering international cooperation.

Sezgin Bilgiç 

 Lale Aytanç Nalbant

Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı and Dr. Akkan Suver