Ankara, 29 October 2025

In Anıtkabir's Memorial Guestbook, President Recep Erdogan wrote: "We are working with full determination to elevate the Republic of Türkiye, which was founded 102 years ago at the cost of many sacrifices, to the level of contemporary civilizations and beyond.

"While enhancing our country's global prestige, we are also continuing our domestic investment and development efforts without interruption. No matter how broad the attacks against us may become, we will not deviate from our path, and we will entrust a great and strong Türkiye as our greatest legacy to our children."

On Wednesday, the Republic of Türkiye commemorated its 102nd anniversary, a national day marking the foundation of the modern Turkish state from the ashes of the Ottoman Empire. In a series of solemn ceremonies and official statements, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led the nation in reflection, articulating a powerful vision of resilience, independence, and future-oriented progress for the country.

The day's observances commenced at the sacred Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the revered leader of the War of Independence and the Republic's founder.

President Erdogan, accompanied by Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye Numan Kurtulmuş, Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, Chairman of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) Özgür Özel, Chairman of the Good (IYI) Party Müsavat Dervişoğlu, members of the Presidential Cabinet, presidents of high courts, Chief of General Staff Gen. Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, force commanders, representatives of political parties and other high-ranking state officials, performed the traditional laying of a wreath adorned with the national crescent and star. The ceremony was steeped in solemnity, featuring a moment of silent reverence and the resonant singing of the national anthem, honoring the legacy of the nation's founder. Subsequently, the delegation visited the Misak-i Milli Tower, a monument commemorating the pivotal National Pact of 1920, which laid the ideological groundwork for a sovereign Turkish nation.

In an official statement released by the Presidency, Erdogan articulated the profound historical significance of the Republic. He characterized it as the "final roof" for the Turkish nation and the latest expression of a centuries-old state tradition, describing it as "the last link in our chain of [Turkish] states." This framing connects the modern republic to a deep and enduring historical lineage. He paid heartfelt tribute to the founding generation, "commemorating with mercy the heroes" who, through immense sacrifice and struggle during the "most painful days" of history, secured the nation's freedom and independence, making these lands a permanent homeland.

Looking toward the future, President Erdogan's message was one of determined resolve and ambitious national goals. He underscored the government's commitment to the "Century of Türkiye" vision, a comprehensive roadmap for the nation's second century.

He reported that "groundbreaking strides" are being made in every field, from domestic infrastructure and economic development to national security. A central pillar of this vision is the creation of a "terror-free Türkiye" where all 86 million citizens can live in peace and prosperity.

The President also addressed both internal and external challenges, vowing to safeguard national unity without giving credit to those who "trade in chaos." He reaffirmed Türkiye's assertive role on the global stage, stressing a commitment to defending justice in international crises.

In the Memorial Guestbook at Anitkabir, he penned a determined pledge to elevate the Republic "to the level of contemporary civilizations and beyond," promising to bequeath a "great and strong Türkiye" to future generations as a lasting legacy.

The celebrations extended to the cultural sphere with a special ceremony at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, where President Erdogan announced the winners of the prestigious 2025 Presidential Culture and Arts Grand Awards. The honorees included academic Suleyman Seyfi Ogun, artist Yalcin Gokcebag, composer Yalcin Tura, and archaeologist Fahri Isik.

In a significant gesture, the award for Photography was granted to Anadolu Agency photojournalist Ali Jadallah, recognized for his work documenting the conflict in Gaza.

The President also revealed that the Ataturk International Peace Award would be presented to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, highlighting Türkiye's engagement with international institutions.

The day concluded with President Erdogan extending his Republic Day greetings to all citizens, both at home and abroad, with a hopeful blessing: "May the 102nd anniversary of our Republic be blessed."

 Türkiye's total goods and services exports saw an all-time high of $390 billion as of October 29, 2025, rising from $50 million in 1923, as the nation is celebrating the 102nd anniversary of the Turkish Republic.

"This success is the result of the determination of our producers, the diligence of our exporters, the courage of our entrepreneurs, and the unity of our nation. It represents the quality, competitiveness, and taste of Turkish goods and services," Türkiye's Trade Ministry said in a statement Tuesday, celebrating the Republic Day.

The Turkish economy, which had an export structure predominantly consisting of agricultural products in 1923, has today reached a wide range of value-added exports, from automotive to white goods, according to the statement.

Pictures : Anadolu News Agency