Turkish Cypriots mark 103rd anniversary of Republic of Turkey with ceremonies across the north

Nicosia, Cyprus. Turkish Cypriots observed the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Turkey’s founding on Thursday, with events running through the day in a number of towns and cities. The central commemoration took place in Nicosia.

Main ceremony in Nicosia

Wreaths were laid at the monument to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the first president of the Republic of Turkey, next to the Kyrenia gate in the capital’s walled city. Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman attended, along with two former leaders, Mehmet Ali Talat and Ersin Tatar. Others present included Turkish ambassador in Nicosia Ali Murat Bacsceri, Turkish Cypriot ‘prime minister’ Unal Ustel, Turkish Cypriot Nicosia mayor Mehmet Harmanci and other dignitaries.

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Erhurman’s message

After the ceremony, Erhurman signed a memorial book and addressed Ataturk directly. He wrote: “I am proud to stand before you on the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey.”

Erhurman wrote that the determination, courage and foresight Ataturk showed in leading the Turkish nation’s struggle for survival still guide Turkish Cypriots. He added that the principles and revolutions Ataturk introduced, together with the modern values passed down through the republic, have lit the way for more than a century.

He also said the Turkish Cypriot people keep moving forward along the enlightened path that the Republic of Turkey opened. In his words, he renewed before Ataturk’s memory a commitment to raising the country to the level of contemporary civilisations, placing the peace, security and wellbeing of the people above everything else.

Tatar’s statement

Earlier in the day, Tatar released his own statement. He described the founding of the Republic of Turkey as “the highest expression of our ideal of independence, our will for modernisation and our belief in a strong future”.

Tatar also called the republic the strongest guarantee of the nation’s course towards sovereignty, freedom and a dignified future. He said he commemorated, with gratitude, mercy and respect, first of all Ataturk, then his comrades in arms, the beloved martyrs and all veterans who have died.

Events elsewhere

A parade was scheduled for Thursday afternoon on Dereboyu avenue, one of Nicosia’s main arteries. Wreath-laying ceremonies and parades were also planned in Famagusta, Kyrenia, Morphou, Trikomo and Lefka. Similar events were due in the villages of Galatia, near Trikomo, and of Lysi and Lefkoniko on the Mesaoria plain.