Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu issued a message of congratulations to mark the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey and the October 29 Republic Day, pledging to carry forward the enduring bonds between the Turkish Cypriot people and Turkey.
In his statement, Ataoğlu described October 29, 1923 as one of the most significant turning points in history, noting that the Republic of Turkey, founded under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk through great sacrifice, has for 103 years stood as a symbol of national sovereignty, independence, modernity and faith in a strong future.
Ataoğlu stressed that Turkish Cypriots regard every achievement and every joy of Turkey as their own, saying: "As the Turkish Cypriot people, we see every success of the motherland Republic of Turkey as our own success, every joy as our own joy."
He further emphasised that Turkey's march toward a strong, stable and prosperous future has always been a source of confidence and pride for Turkish Cypriots, adding: "Drawing strength from our shared history, culture and bonds of brotherhood, we will continue to carry this unshakeable solidarity into the future."
Ataoğlu closed his message by honouring the memory of Atatürk, his comrades-in-arms and all those who fought for independence, and expressing gratitude to veterans.
