Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday issued a message marking the 104th anniversary of Victory Day, commemorating the decisive victory in the country's War of Independence. "Today, we proudly mark the 104th anniversary of the Great Victory, which went down in history as the 'Battle of the Commander-in-Chief' and constituted the most important stage of our National Struggle," Erdogan said in a statement shared by the Communications Directorate on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan expressed his congratulations to the Turkish nation, the Turkish Cypriot people, and Turkish citizens worldwide. He extended gratitude to guests celebrating the holiday at Turkish missions abroad. He highlighted that the victory on August 30 affirmed Trkiye's lands as its "eternal homeland" and emphasized its role in establishing the Republic, showcasing the nation's refusal to accept captivity and breaking the imperialist encirclement.

Erdogan noted that Trkiye continues to draw inspiration from its history, advancing toward goals in various fields, including energy, defense, science, technology, and foreign policy. He remarked on Trkiye's proactive, humanitarian-centered policies amidst global conflicts and crises. Erdogan reiterated Trkiye's commitment to opposing oppression and upholding rights, law, justice, peace, and stability, regardless of the challenges faced.

Quoting an ancient Turkic expression, Erdogan emphasized Trkiye's unwavering determination in its struggle. He thanked citizens contributing to the nation's progress and shared an affectionate message to friends and allies globally. He commemorated Gazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and veterans, expressing gratitude for their roles in securing independence.

Commemorations began with a ceremony at Anitkabir, Ataturk's mausoleum. Erdogan led a procession with state officials, including Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus, Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, and other dignitaries. Erdogan laid a wreath and the national anthem was played after a moment of silence. He signed the Anitkabir memorial book, honoring Ataturk, the Grand National Assembly, and the army for their contributions.

Victory Day, marking the final battle against Greek forces in 1922, celebrates the Turkish Armed Forces. The Battle of Dumlupinar, fought from August 26 to 30 in Kutahya province, resulted in the defeat of the Greek army. By the end of 1922, foreign forces were expelled, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Trkiye a year later.