Atay Demirel (PhD C), Lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science at Girne American University, participated as a speaker at the 4th National Political Science Congress, organized by the Political Science Turkish Association (SİTD) and held at İzmir University of Economics on September 20–21, 2025.

The congress, organized by SİTD—an institution renowned for its academic prestige both in Turkey and internationally—hosted distinguished scholars from various countries. A total of 63 panels were held during the event. Atay Demirel presented his paper titled “Development Aid or New Imperialism? An International Political Economy Analysis of China’s Belt and Road Initiative” in Panel 7, titled “Society and Politics in East and Southeast Asia.”

The panel, which included three speakers including Demirel, offered in-depth analyses of the political, economic, and social dynamics of the East and Southeast Asian region. Discussions also focused on the global implications of the region’s rapid political and economic transformations. The growing role of East and Southeast Asia in international political economy and its impact on global politics were explored in detail.

Our university continues to take steps toward strengthening its academic presence on both national and international platforms. As Girne American University, we remain committed to supporting the scholarly work of our academics and encouraging their participation in prestigious academic events such as this.