HP Newsroom

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Yalçın Manav, a distinguished figure in the realm of Turkish gastronomy and cultural diplomacy. Yalçın Manav, who dedicated 37 years of his life to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, including a notable 16-year tenure as the Provincial Culture and Tourism Director in Istanbul, breathed his last on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the age of 83.

Throughout his illustrious career, Yalçın Manav left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape, both domestically and internationally. Notably, he served as the President of the Turkish Cooks and Chefs Federation (TAŞFED) from 2006 to 2019, spearheading initiatives aimed at promoting Turkish cuisine and fostering culinary excellence.

Among his many contributions, Yalçın Manav was the visionary behind the Turkish Gastronomical Festival, an event that celebrated the rich heritage and diversity of Turkish cuisine, captivating audiences worldwide.

However, beyond his remarkable achievements within Turkey, Yalçın Manav was known for his genuine affection for Pakistan and his unwavering commitment to fostering cross-cultural culinary exchanges between Turkey and Pakistan.

Recognizing the burgeoning talent and potential of Pakistani chefs, Yalçın Manav played a pivotal role in paving the way for the establishment of the Chefs Association of Pakistan (CAP) on the international stage. His advocacy and support enabled CAP to showcase their culinary prowess at prestigious global platforms, elevating the profile of Pakistani cuisine and chefs on a global scale.

Moreover, Yalçın Manav’s efforts culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the chefs associations of Pakistan and Turkey, laying the foundation for sustained collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mutual enrichment in the culinary arts.

His legacy of culinary diplomacy and cooperation will continue to inspire future generations of chefs and cultural ambassadors, bridging divides and fostering understanding through the universal language of food.

As we mourn the loss of a visionary leader and a cherished friend, let us honor Yalçın Manav’s memory by continuing to build upon his legacy of goodwill, collaboration, and culinary excellence.