By Diyar Guldogan
ANKARA (AA) - Türkiye's newly-appointed National Defense Minister Yasar Guler on Monday took the reins of the ministry from Hulusi Akar, his predecessor.
"I'm taking over the flag today. Our aim is to raise this flag higher," Guler said at the handover ceremony in the capital Ankara, adding that his priority will be the fight against terrorism.
"We will continue our fight against all kinds of terrorist organizations that threaten the peace and security of our country until the last terrorist is neutralized," Guler stressed.
He also thanked Akar for his "active" role in ensuring the peace and security of Türkiye, especially in the fight against terrorism and border security.
For his part, Akar said he has protected Türkiye's rights and interests both in the region and in the world during his term since 2018.
Guler, 68, who previously served as Türkiye’s chief of General Staff since 2018, was appointed national defense minister by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan following his May 28 election victory.
Erdogan on Saturday unveiled his new Cabinet after swearing-in ceremonies at parliament and the presidential complex in the capital Ankara.