Ankara: As the chapters of terrorism are closed, hopes will grow and a new wind will begin to blow across the region, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan made these remarks at a special program in Ankara commemorating Trkiye's Aug. 30 Victory Day, which marks the decisive battle in 1922 that halted the Greek advance in western Anatolia. This battle paved the way for the final stages of the Turkish War of Independence, leading to the withdrawal of occupying forces and the establishment of the Republic of Trkiye.
The president emphasized Trkiye's significant progress in resolving the terrorism issue that has plagued the country for nearly half a century. He recalled his call from two years ago to strengthen the country's "home front," a move that has garnered support both politically and among the public. "With the very valuable contributions of our People's Alliance partner, Mr. Devlet Bahceli, the doors to a new era have opened in our country," he said.
Erdogan also introduced a broader vision for a "terror-free region," noting that this vision is now being implemented incrementally. He highlighted the opportunity for Trkiye and "brotherly peoples" in the region to open a new chapter following significant hardships. "After great hardships, we now have an opportunity to write a new golden chapter in history. God willing, we will not allow this opportunity to slip away," Erdogan stated.
He further asserted Trkiye's determination to enhance cooperation in all fields, starting from its neighbors and extending to regions with which it shares cultural and historical ties. "Borders may physically separate countries, but they cannot separate hearts and people," Erdogan remarked, emphasizing the unity among those who share the same beliefs and history.
During his speech, Erdogan paid tribute to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Trkiye, and all those who sacrificed their lives for the country. He stressed Trkiye's commitment to defending its independence, highlighting the sacrifices made throughout its history. "We have existed on these lands by relying not on others, but on our own strength, and we have stood firm this way for a thousand years," he declared.
Erdogan urged those seeking to provoke Trkiye to study history, referencing significant battles and resistance efforts, including the Battle of Manzikert, the Gallipoli campaign, the Great Victory, and the Turkish War of Independence.
In addition, Erdogan addressed the recent passenger ferry capsizing off Kyrenia in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), extending condolences to the affected families and wishing the rescued a speedy recovery. He assured that necessary steps would be taken in cooperation with TRNC authorities to determine the accident's causes and hold any responsible parties accountable. A planned concert as part of the Victory Day program was canceled following the tragedy.