Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday marked the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Trkiye, pledging to uphold the nation's unity, independence, and resilience. "We are working with all our strength to keep the Republic of Trkiye everlasting," Erdogan stated in an official communication released by the Turkish Presidency.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan praised the republic as the culmination of a longstanding state tradition forged through national sacrifice. He emphasized that the Republic of Trkiye represents the ultimate embodiment of a nation that has persistently fought for its freedom and independence, enduring significant challenges throughout its history. "I commemorate with mercy the heroes who for centuries have made these lands our homeland with their blood and their lives," Erdogan added, paying tribute to those who fought for Trkiye's sovereignty.
The president expressed Trkiye's resolve to withstand threats to its social cohesion. "Without giving credit to those who trade in chaos and target our national unity and solidarity, we will, God willing, continue to overcome obstacles, foil plots, and frustrate those who pursue expansionist ambitions," he asserted. Erdogan further highlighted the country's ambitious development and security objectives under the Century of Trkiye vision, emphasizing efforts toward establishing a "terror-free Trkiye where our 86 million people will live in peace."
Erdogan also underscored Trkiye's proactive role on the international stage, reiterating the nation's commitment to advocating for justice in global crises. Looking towards the future, he called for collective determination, stating, "We will build together a great, strong, and prosperous Trkiye - respected in the world and a leader in its region." In his concluding remarks, the president extended Republic Day greetings to citizens both within Trkiye and abroad, wishing a blessed 102nd anniversary of the Republic.
The commemorative day began with a ceremony at Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, where Erdogan laid a wreath adorned with the national crescent and star. This was followed by a moment of silence and the singing of the national anthem. Erdogan later visited the Misak-i Milli Tower with officials, marking the important National Pact of 1920.
In the Anitkabir Memorial Guestbook, Erdogan reiterated his commitment to elevating the Republic of Trkiye to contemporary civilization standards. "While enhancing our country's global prestige, we are also continuing our domestic investment and development efforts without interruption," he wrote. Emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges, he stated, "No matter how broad the attacks against us may become, we will not deviate from our path, and we will entrust a great and strong Trkiye as our greatest legacy to our children."