Naveed Miraj, Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: In a historic celebration, the Turkish Embassy in Islamabad commemorated the 100th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Turkiye.
The event, held with great enthusiasm, was attended by distinguished guests, including Pakistan’s Interior Minister Sarfaraz Bugti and Sindh Governor Karam Tessori, who were warmly welcomed by Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Mehmet Pacaci.
Ambassador Dr Pacaci’s address highlighted that the occasion not only commemorates the Republic’s centenary but also expresses deep gratitude to friends and allies who join in celebrating this significant milestone.
Ambassador Commemorates Turkiye Founder Atatürk
He paid tribute to the visionary Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founding father of the Republic, and honored the memory of the holy martyrs and courageous veterans who made immense sacrifices for the same noble cause, entrusting the beautiful homeland of Turkiye to its people at the cost of their lives.
Ambassador Dr Pacaci emphasized that the Republic of Turkiye stands as a testament to the resilience of a noble nation that would rather face formidable challenges than compromise on its fundamental values of liberty, independence, and honor. The character of independence defines its national identity.
He noted that the Turkish War of Independence, a remarkable chapter in Turkiye’s history, was not only a victory for the Turkish nation but also holds a well-documented place in shared history with Pakistan. The sacrifices and unwavering support from South Asian Muslims during the Khilafat Movement, along with their political and financial contributions to the Turkish cause, remain eternally etched in memory.
Moreover, the Turkish Independence War serves as a profound source of inspiration for Muslims in the subcontinent as they pursue their own struggles for freedom. The founding father of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, expressed deep admiration for the Turkish struggle and its extraordinary leader, Atatürk. Atatürk’s legacy not only transformed Turkiye into a modern nation but also served as an exemplary model for the world, especially for Muslim nations in the Far East.
In a significant moment, Ambassador Dr Pacaci played a video message from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This message further underscored the significance of this National Day and the Centenary of the Republic of Turkiye, reinforcing the enduring bonds of friendship and shared history between Turkiye and its global allies.
On the occasion of Republic Day, the President expresses heartfelt congratulations to citizens both in Turkiye and across the world as they celebrate the Centenary of the Republic.
“On behalf of my country and my nation, I would like to thank all our friends and guests who share our joy of celebration by being with us.
Today, we are elated and proud to have reached the Centenary of the Republic,” he said in his message. With inspiration drawn from our deep-rooted history and ancestral values, we are committed to fortifying our Republic as it embarks on its new century, reinforcing its foundations for the future, said Erdogan.
The President commemorates the heroes and founder of the Republic, Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and pays respects to martyrs and veterans who sacrificed for the homeland.
Turkiye’s Republic, representing a culmination of its long history, aims to strengthen and prepare for the future, drawing inspiration from its heritage.
The President emphasizes the commitment to ensuring the Republic lives on, highlighting progress and reforms achieved over the last 22 years. The Presidential Government system aligns with Atatürk’s vision of full independence and unconditional sovereignty.
The President’s vision is to make the Republic’s second century a period of global influence and to continue to aid those in need worldwide, standing as a symbol of hope for oppressed people.
Despite challenges, the President said that they are determined to realize the Century of Turkiye, a great and powerful nation, with the support of the people and by overcoming obstacles.
The message concludes with warm Republic Day congratulations to citizens at home and abroad.
