Opening his speech with a message of respect to those who fought in Türkiye’s national struggle, Erdoğan honored the Republic’s founders, saying, “The Republic belongs to every individual who feels a connection to these lands.” He emphasized that the Republic is for all citizens, irrespective of background, and underscored its enduring legacy as a symbol of unity and strength.

Erdoğan addressed the recent PKK attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in Kahramankazan, calling it a “cowardly” act. The President expressed condolences for the lives lost and noted that TAI employees are resilient, standing determined to continue their work in honor of their martyred colleagues. Erdoğan highlighted recent achievements, including the delivery of the T625 Gökbey helicopter to the Gendarmerie, with plans to introduce 20 more by 2026.

Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye’s role as a “source of hope” for the oppressed, stressing the resilience of the nation. “If we fall, we rise again. If we burn, we are reborn from our ashes,” he stated, adding that the foundation of the Republic is brotherhood, which will continue to sustain it.

The President lauded Türkiye’s progress over the past century, citing the defense industry as a cornerstone of the nation’s self-reliance, which has grown to 80% domestic production. He also highlighted Türkiye’s economic rise, now the 11th largest in the world based on purchasing power parity, emphasizing the nation’s strength and prosperity amid regional challenges.

In a firm message on Türkiye’s ongoing battle against terrorism, Erdoğan condemned groups attempting to disrupt national peace, pledging to “root out any threats” to the country. He stated that Türkiye’s stance against terrorism is uncompromising and that the fight will continue, both within Türkiye and beyond its borders, in Iraq and Syria.

Erdoğan concluded by affirming Türkiye’s strength and its dedication to national unity: “Türkiye is stronger than ever. Today, we stand with a commitment to address long-standing issues, particularly terrorism, and to advance the spirit of brotherhood that will safeguard our Republic.”

With a call for collective resilience and unwavering national pride, Erdoğan’s speech underscored his administration’s goals to protect Türkiye’s sovereignty and unity while honoring the Republic’s legacy. (ILKHA)