Turkey’s state broadcaster TRT launched a Persian-language service on December 18, aiming to expand its international reach and challenge Western media dominance. The initiative coincides with strained relations between Turkey and Iran, particularly following political changes in Syria. Despite past controversial remarks about “disturbing Iran,” TRT aims to strengthen cultural ties through media. The service seeks to engage over 130 million Persian speakers.
On December 18, Turkey’s state broadcaster, TRT, unveiled its new Persian-language news service, TRT Farsi, amid escalating tensions with Iran. This development marks a strategic extension of TRT’s international broadcasting efforts, joining other Persian-language media outlets such as Iran International and BBC Persian. Fahrettin Altun, head of Turkey’s Presidential Communications Directorate, affirmed the initiative’s significance, emphasizing the profound cultural ties between Turkey and Iran despite political challenges. TRT Director General Mehmet Zahid Sobaci highlighted the necessity of providing an alternative to the prevailing Western media narrative, asserting Turkey’s commitment to challenging media monopolies under President Erdogan’s regime.
The launch of TRT Farsi occurs against a backdrop of complex geopolitical dynamics, particularly following significant political upheaval in Syria, which has affected Iran’s regional relationships. The new service aims to reach over 130 million Persian speakers globally, marking it as TRT’s twelfth language platform. Sobaci had previously incited controversy by suggesting that the channel’s objective was to “disturb Iran,” though at the launch, he adopted a more diplomatic stance, focusing on fostering connections between Turkish and Persian-speaking communities. The remarks of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding Iran’s potential lessons from Syria added further nuance to the reception of this media initiative, eliciting retorts from Iranian broadcasters who labeled them as exaggerated.
Overall, TRT has established a robust precedent in broadcasting, with 11 billion views and 8 billion video views aggregated across its platforms. This expansion serves to bolster Turkey’s influence in the region, particularly in the media landscape, where it seeks to present a balanced viewpoint that counters Western perspectives.
Turkey’s launch of its Persian-language service is a notable response to the changing political landscape in the Middle East, particularly as Iran’s influence in the region faces challenges. TRT Farsi aims to enhance Turkey’s international broadcasting presence and cater to the substantial Persian-speaking audience. As Turkey navigates its complex relationship with Iran, the establishment of this service underscores a strategic effort to reshape narratives while simultaneously promoting cultural connections that transcend political friction. The initiative reflects TRT’s broader mission to challenge Western media hegemony and provide a counter-narrative from a Turkish perspective.
The inauguration of TRT Farsi is a pivotal moment in Turkey’s media strategy, aiming to expand its reach and influence among Persian speakers worldwide. This service not only signifies TRT’s commitment to diversifying its language offerings but also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue amid regional tensions. As TRT takes steps to redefine narrative frameworks in the media landscape, it remains to be seen how the service will be received in a politically charged environment.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
