The Mayor of Kartal, Mr Arif Daglar, kindly requests considerations to develop joint projects to foster international understanding and friendly-city relations at all levels of community on a continuing long-term basis. These could focus on the fields of developing human resources, local governance-NGO linkages, organization of events and activities related to culture and art, engagement in voluntary and community-based activities to enhance quality of life and environment, initiation of exchange programs and potential business partnerships. Mr Daglar also pledges to support similar projects that you would offer in Kartal, Istanbul .

It is worth presenting precise information regarding our public corporate entity. Kartal Municipality , a local government establishment in settlement with 500.000 inhabitants, was set up in a district centre of Istanbul . Kartal has a deep-seated heritage of 135 years and being within the borders of Istanbul brings significant opportunities as Istanbul has been selected to become the European Capital of Culture in the year 2010. Although local government structure in other countries is different than Turkey, considering the local government literature we could say that Kartal Municipality finds its meaning in the description of a ‘borough council'.    

Over the years, the roles and responsibilities of municipalities (councils), along with their internal mechanisms and structures have been subject to many positive changes in Turkey . In the current environment, Kartal Municipality is governed by a network of integrated systems. Also our innovative ‘Systems Management Approach' brought a modern interpretation to local governance. Today, Kartal Municipality feels the responsibility to build a bright vision for local communities in both countries via partnership with a city council in England . As known, Turkey commenced membership negotiations with the European Union (EU). The impact of the EU policies especially on local governments, has had a significant impact on Turkey in terms of encouraging collaboration. In the context of the modernization process, Kartal Municipality has just established the Directorate of Strategy Development which includes the European Union and International Relations Branches in order to create long-term partnerships with institutions from EU-Member states.

In the context of collaboration, we are inviting you to cooperate with our municipality on a large scale. I hope the information above clarifies our commitment to pursue joint projects in the near future, and we hope to contact you soon with details of concrete project offers.

Arif DAGLAR,
The Mayor of Kartal Municipality