State Dignitaries Pay Tribute at Anıtkabir
The ceremony at Anıtkabir began at 8:45 am with the procession of state dignitaries walking through Aslanlı Yol. Led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the procession included Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş, members of the Presidential Cabinet, CHP Leader Özgür Özel, MHP Leader Devlet Bahçeli, İYİ Party Leader Müsavat Dervişoğlu, heads of high judiciary bodies, TSK command structure, political party representatives, bureaucrats, and other state dignitaries.
President Erdoğan laid a wreath of red and white carnations in the shape of the crescent moon and star at Atatürk’s mausoleum. At 09:05, the exact time Atatürk passed away 86 years ago, a moment of silence was observed, followed by the national anthem.
During the moment of silence, the Turkish flag on the mast was lowered halfway. President Erdoğan and the protocol members then proceeded to the Misak-ı Milli Tower.
President Erdoğan’s Message in the Anıtkabir Special Book
In the Anıtkabir Special Book, President Erdoğan penned the following message: “Dear Atatürk, on the 86th anniversary of your eternal departure to the other world, we remember you with mercy once again.
We are working with all our might to elevate and strengthen the Republic of Turkey, entrusted to us by your person and our martyrs, in all areas, and to grow it steadily with stability and confidence despite the crises around us. We continue our blessed journey towards a brighter future beyond our glorious past, united as 85 million people with the goal of a greater Turkey and the vision of a Turkish Century. We will walk tirelessly and without rest until we build a Turkey where peace, tranquility, justice, development, and brotherhood prevail in every inch of our homeland. Rest in peace.”
Reflecting on Atatürk’s Legacy
The visit to Anıtkabir by state dignitaries is a solemn occasion that serves to honor the memory and legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Atatürk’s vision and principles continue to guide the nation, shaping its identity and direction.
As the leaders of the country pay their respects at his mausoleum, they reaffirm their commitment to upholding the values of the Republic and working towards a stronger and more prosperous future for all citizens. Atatürk’s enduring influence is evident in the dedication and determination of those who follow in his footsteps, striving to realize his vision of a modern, democratic, and progressive Turkey.
The ceremony at Anıtkabir is not only a symbol of respect for Atatürk’s memory but also a reminder of the responsibilities that come with preserving and advancing his legacy. It is a time for reflection on the achievements of the past and the challenges of the present, as well as a call to action for the future.
Building a Brighter Future
President Erdoğan’s message in the Anıtkabir Special Book encapsulates the dedication and commitment of the Turkish government to honor Atatürk’s legacy and continue the journey towards a prosperous and peaceful future. The emphasis on unity, strength, and progress echoes Atatürk’s own vision for the country and reflects the ongoing efforts to build on his achievements.
As Turkey navigates through a rapidly changing world and faces new challenges, the principles and values of Atatürk remain a guiding light for the nation. The commitment to peace, stability, justice, and development is evident in the actions and policies of the government, as they strive to create a better future for all citizens.
The visit to Anıtkabir serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the past while looking towards the future with hope and determination. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices and struggles that have shaped the nation and to renew the commitment to building a brighter and more inclusive society for generations to come.
