The Azerbaijani and Turkish communities in the United Kingdom have suffered a great loss. Ali Tekin Atalar, founder of the "Azerbaijan House, Culture and Friendship Centre" in London and a prominent figure who made invaluable contributions to diaspora activities, has passed away.
Ali Tekin Atalar was born in Kars, Türkiye. After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at Cerrahpaşa University, he moved to London in 1974 to pursue advanced training in general surgery. He devoted the rest of his life to the medical profession as well as public service. Alongside his achievements as a skilled surgeon, he earned widespread respect for his efforts to strengthen unity, solidarity, and organization among the Azerbaijani and Turkish communities, as well as for his charitable work.
For many years, Ali Tekin Atalar worked tirelessly to promote the truth about Azerbaijan, preserve the country's national and cultural heritage, and strengthen diaspora activities in the United Kingdom.
Under his leadership, the "Azerbaijan House, Culture and Friendship Centre" became an important cultural platform bringing together the Azerbaijani and Turkish communities. The centre regularly hosted scientific and cultural events, seminars, conferences, film screenings, book presentations, and educational projects aimed at promoting national and spiritual values, raising awareness of Azerbaijani culture, and fostering unity among members of the diaspora.
The Azerbaijani state highly valued Ali Tekin Atalar's contributions to strengthening cooperation between the Azerbaijani and Turkish diasporas, as well as advancing community-building and networking efforts. In recognition of his services in promoting diaspora activities and friendship between peoples in the United Kingdom, he was awarded the "Progress" (Tərəqqi) Medal, as well as the "For Service in Diaspora Activities" Medal of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Ali Tekin Atalar's passing is a profound loss for the Azerbaijani diaspora. His memory and his dedicated service to the Azerbaijani people and the diaspora movement will always be remembered with deep respect.
The leadership and staff of Azerbaijan's State Committee on Work with Diaspora expressed their deep sorrow over Ali Tekin Atalar's passing and extended their heartfelt condolences to his family and members of the community.