Turkey Launches TRT Farsi: A Strategic Move in Regional Media Influence

Turkey’s TRT launched its Persian-language service, TRT Farsi, on December 18. The initiative aims to enhance Turkey’s media reach amid strained relations with Iran, engaging 130 million Persian speakers. Officials emphasized cultural connections and countering Western media narratives, although the launch has prompted controversy and criticism.

On December 18, Turkey’s state broadcaster TRT officially launched its Persian-language service, TRT Farsi. This initiative signifies a strategic expansion of Turkey’s media influence amid strained relations with Iran and adds to the existing foreign-language news channels targeting the Islamic Republic, such as Iran International and BBC Persian. Fahrettin Altun, head of Turkey’s Presidential Communications Directorate, highlighted the cultural ties between the two nations, underscoring the importance of providing Persian-language content.

The launch of TRT Farsi occurs at a politically sensitive moment, following significant shifts in Syria and evolving Tehran-Ankara relations. The initiative aims to engage over 130 million Persian speakers globally, positioning TRT as a counterforce to Western media dominance. TRT’s Director General, Mehmet Zahid Sobaci, emphasized the channel’s role in countering a historically one-sided media narrative and fostering communication among cultural communities.

The establishment of TRT Farsi reflects Turkey’s broader ambitions in international media, particularly concerning Iran. Although the initiative has faced criticism regarding its intentions, Turkish officials have articulated a vision of strengthening cultural ties and promoting shared narratives through the new service. The initiative represents both a response to regional dynamics and a commitment to expanding Turkey’s global media footprint.

Original Source: www.intellinews.com