Türkiye’s 101st Republic Day celebrated at National Gallery in London

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - London witnessed a vibrant celebration of Türkiye’s 101st Republic Day at an event organized by the Turkish Presidential Directorate of Communications on Tuesday.

Held at the esteemed National Gallery, the event brought together prominent figures from both Turkish and British circles to honor the founding of the Turkish Republic.

Attendees included Türkiye’s Ambassador to the UK, Osman Koray Ertas, Stephen Doughty, the UK’s Minister of State for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories, Kenan Poleo, the British Consul General in Istanbul; MI6 Chief Richard Moore and Stanley Johnson, father of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The large turnout, which included many members of the British Parliament and Turkish expatriates, underscored the close bonds between the Turkish and British communities.

The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of Türkiye and the UK followed by a video message from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Ambassador Ertas, in his speech, emphasized the significance of this Republic Day, noting the heartfelt participation of the Turkish community in the UK.

"The high attendance at Republic Day celebrations reflects the strong sense of republican consciousness among the Turkish community in the UK," he said.

Ertas acknowledged that the celebrations this year were marked by both pride and a shared sense of grief following a recent terrorist attack in Ankara.

"We are all members of a great family. We stand together in both joy and sorrow," he said.

"Although we may live in different parts of the world, our love for Türkiye and the spirit of the Republic bring us together and will continue to do so. We will collectively elevate our beloved country to the level of contemporary civilization, as envisioned by the founder of our Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk."

Turkish Communications Director Fahrettin Altun also delivered a video message, extending his Republic Day greetings and expressing gratitude for the international support.