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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan commemorated the 106th anniversary of May 19, Ataturk, Youth and Sports Day, highlighting its historical significance as the beginning of Türkiye's War of Independence.
İn a message shared by Türkiye's Communications Directorate on social media platform X on Monday, Erdogan emphasized the importance of preserving the national heritage while advancing the country's position globally.
"We are protecting the homeland and the Republic—sacred legacies entrusted to us by our ancestors—and we are taking steps to advance and elevate the Republic of Türkiye, which will endure forever, in every field," the Turkish president stated.
Erdogan expressed his belief in the pivotal role of Turkish youth in shaping the nation's future. He described them not merely as "architects of the future" but as a "driving force of change" who will help realize what he calls the "Century of Türkiye."
"We truly believe that with their energy, determination, and dreams—carrying the legacy of our civilization in their hearts—the Turkish youth will leave a defining mark on our era as the 'Century of Türkiye,'" Erdogan said.
The president emphasized his administration's commitment to eliminating obstacles that might waste young people's energy or the country's resources on "fruitless discussions."
President Erdogan outlined his government's commitment to creating opportunities for young people across multiple sectors, from science and arts to sports, agriculture, diplomacy, and nuclear technologies.
"We work with all our might to fulfill our promise to leave our youth a peaceful and serene, high-tech, and prosperous country," he noted, adding that the government would continue to support youth who strive to achieve their goals and elevate Türkiye's civilizational heritage.
Erdogan stated that his administration would "always maintain their determination to work harder and achieve more" for Turkish youth, crediting them for every success as Türkiye strengthens its position as a "central country."
May 19 marks the day when Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Türkiye, arrived in the Black Sea city of Samsun from Istanbul in 1919 to launch the War of Independence, which eventually led to the establishment of the Republic of Türkiye four years later.
In 1938, Ataturk dedicated May 19 to the youth of the Turkish nation as Youth and Sports Day. It remains a national holiday that features young people participating in sporting and cultural activities, with official ceremonies held throughout the country.
The president concluded his message by commemorating "all the heroes of our War of Independence, Gazi Mustafa Kemal in particular," using the honorary title "Gazi" (Veteran) often given to Ataturk.
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