High level officials of Turkey presided by the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited Ataturk's mausoleum on the occasion of August 30, Victory Day of the Republic of Turkey.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said "Today, Turkish nation protects its independence at the cost of its life as we did 96 years ago with the inspiration we got from the sacrifices of martyrs, bravery of veterans and long-time traditions developed within the thousands of years". He added that any threat, violence and offensive acts against the sovereignty of Turkey never keep us back from our ideals and targets.
The first ceremony on the 96th anniversary of the Great Victory took place in Ataturk's mausoleum in Ankara. Turkish Parliamentary Speaker Binali Yıldırım, Vice-President Fuat Oktay, Commander of the Turkish Armed Forces Yasar Guler and the leaders of political parties, chairpersons of higher judicial bodies, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Dr. Bekir Pakdemirli and other members of cabinet participated in the ceremony headed by President Erdogan.
During the ceremony, President Erdogan signed the official memorial book. He wrote in the book "Today, we are very proud of celebrating the 96th anniversary of the Great Victory that represents the independence of Turkish nation. This victory was achieved as a result of a heroical battle under the commandership of Ataturk despite the great difficulties and impossibilities so, it is an invaluable asset in our fascinating history. Turkish nation protects its independence at the cost of its life as we did 96 years ago with the inspiration we got from the sacrifices of martyrs, bravery of veterans and long-time traditions developed within the thousands of years. Any threat, violence and offensive acts against the sovereignty of Turkey never keep us back from our ideals and targets. Rest in Peace".
Great many of citizens also watched the ceremony. The soldiers and civilians participated in the ceremony together.
The citizens welcomed the President Erdogan with cheers at the beginning and end of the ceremony.