Syrian migrants give flowers, thank you notes to locals celebrating Eid in Turkey’s southeast

ADIYAMAN – Doğan News Agency

Syrian migrants have given flowers, water and thank you notes to locals celebrating Eid al-Adha in the southeastern province of Adıyaman.

The Syrians, who had to move to Adıyaman after escaping across the border from their war-torn country, distributed carnations on Adıyaman’s Gölbaşı and Sanat streets as a sign of gratitude late on Aug. 31.

They also distributed water to those feeling tired due to pre-Eid shopping. 

The Syrians expressed wishes that Eid al-Adha be experienced in unity and solidarity, thanking locals for their hospitality.

Speaking about the gesture, Syrian Innovation and Education Culture Association head Amer Alnmr said that even though they aren’t able to celebrate Eid in their own country, they feel welcome in. 

“We’ve been active in Adıyaman as an association for the past three years. We’ve been making educational and scientific activities. Eid Mubarak to all Turkish citizens,” Alnmr said, adding that “they came from a country that was in war and experiencing chaos.” 

“War is one of the worst situations that people can experience. As Syrians we opened our eyes to war, but we wish we hadn’t. Then we migrated to Turkey. Turkish citizens didn’t see as different. That’s why we are living happily here. Some people like me were granted Turkish citizenship. Now I have double citizenship,” he said. 

“Muslims are killing each other there [in Syria]. We came here without wanting to kill people. We wanted to give our Turkish brothers and sisters carnations and water as gifts because they provided moral and material support to us,” Alnmr added, also expressing “thanks” to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the Turkish government.