The Imam Hussein Cultural Center in Istanbul—affiliated with the Media Department of the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him)—recently hosted a delegation from the Turkish Sayyeds Association to explore opportunities for joint cooperation and the development of cultural and religious programs in both Turkey and Iraq.

Sabah Al-Taliqani, Director of the Center, stated, “We welcomed Sayyed Hussein Zarraqi, Director General of the International Sayyeds Association for Culture and Research, based in the Başakşehir district of Istanbul, to discuss plans for preparing joint cultural and religious initiatives. These include commemorating events related to the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them) within Turkish society, building a shared database, and coordinating participation in upcoming events both in Turkey and at the holy sites in Karbala.”

Sayyed Zarraqi expressed his appreciation for the ongoing relationship, noting, “Last year, we were honored to accept an invitation from the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) to attend a scientific conference. Today’s meeting at the Imam Hussein Center marks another important step in strengthening our collaboration. We hope that our association's more than 3,000 members across Turkey will have the opportunity to visit the holy shrines in Iraq and take part in the spiritual and cultural events organized by the Shrine.”

He further explained that the International Sayyeds Association for Culture and Research, officially established in 2014, serves as a platform to represent and support Sayyeds in Turkey and beyond. Its objectives include verifying and registering Sayyed family names in accordance with legal standards, offering both financial and moral assistance to Sayyed families, and organizing academic and media activities that highlight the historical and contemporary role of Sayyed syndicates—from the Ottoman period to the present day.

Zarraqi emphasized the association's commitment to building lasting partnerships with institutions such as the Imam Hussein Center and the Holy Shrine, to promote shared religious heritage and foster deeper cultural ties.

Abbas Al-Taee