The “Soap and Candle Making Expert Training Program” for experts from Karatay’s sister city, Sauran Municipality in Kazakhstan, was held in Konya on 6-10 July, 2025, in cooperation with Union of Turkish World Municipalities (TDBB) and Karatay Municipality. Four experts working at Sauran Municipality participated in the program.
Following the sister city protocol, the delegation participated in the Karatay Lavender Festival, a culmination of the strengthening of relations. After examining the organic candles and soaps produced by the Karatay ANKA Women’s Cooperative, the delegation then participated in a four-day training program. During the program, the delegation learned from experts on organic soap and candle making and toured the field.
Karatay (Türkiye) Municipality and Sauran Municipality had signed a sister city protocol at a ceremony held in Konya on 19 November 2024, hosted by Karatay Municipality, under the coordination of TDBB.
Sauran
This ancient city, located in the Syr Darya basin, was one of the most important strategic and commercial centers of its time. In the 13th century, it was the capital of the Ak Horde. At the end of the 14th century, the city was transformed into a military fortress by Emir Timur. This historic city also holds great spiritual significance. The great mosque in Sauran played a significant role in the spread of Islam to the Kazakh lands. The medieval city of Sauran is one of the rare examples of Central Asian cities that reflect the steppe culture. As a part of the historic Silk Road, the city holds a significant place in Kazakh history.
