Bern: A program was held in the Swiss capital Bern on Monday to mark the 10th anniversary of the Fetullah Terrorist Organization's (FETO) defeated coup attempt, commemorated as July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day. The event, titled 'National Will and Democratic Resistance: July 15 in its 10th Year,' was organized by Trkiye's Communications Directorate and the Turkish Embassy in Bern.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trkiye's Ambassador to Switzerland Sebnem Incesu addressed the event following a moment of silence and the Turkish national anthem. Incesu warned that FETO remains a threat to every country where it operates. She highlighted that FETO branches are scattered across various European countries, including Switzerland, and described it as a 'criminal and espionage organization driven by interests and influence' that 'should be treated accordingly.' Incesu emphasized that Trkiye's fight against the organization is ongoing, warning that FETO is seeking to preserve its presence abroad through sectors including education and health while conducting disinformation and provocation activities through media, social media, and lobbying.
In a video message, Trkiye's Communications Director Burhanettin Duran called on countries seeking strong ties with Trkiye to stand with Ankara against groups targeting its sovereignty and democracy. Duran stated, 'FETO is not merely a national security problem concerning Trkiye. FETO is an open threat to every country where it operates.'
Addressing a panel at the event, former Swiss Ambassador to Ankara Jean-Daniel Ruch remarked that Europe sometimes forgets that Trkiye is a European state. Ruch argued that the recent NATO summit in Ankara marked a shift in perceptions of the country's strategic importance, describing it as a defining moment for Trkiye. He emphasized Trkiye's growing strategic importance for Europe's energy security and its 'much more independent' role as a factor of stability across its wider region, citing its involvement in efforts concerning Ukraine, Syria, and Iran.
Turkish lawmaker Sena Nur Celik Kanat warned that FETO's international network remains active despite losing much of its operational structure in Trkiye. She urged countries to investigate FETO-linked structures and cooperate on extradition requests and asset freezes.
UN-accredited journalist Catherine Fiankan-Bokonga noted that Trkiye's importance in the international system was already visible in 2016 but was not recognized as such, pointing to its role in hosting millions of refugees. Fiankan-Bokonga mentioned that Trkiye is increasingly viewed as a country 'you can lean on in case of problems,' particularly by African countries.
National Defense University faculty member Murat Yigit highlighted post-2016 reforms aimed at strengthening permanent civilian control of the military. Yigit explained that the military is now properly positioned within the state system, functioning as a highly professional fighting force that is completely subordinate to the democratic mandate of the people.