President Erdogan Marks Commemoration of Ataturk, Youth and Sports Day
Ankara, The Gulf Observer: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan commemorated Ataturk, Youth, and Sports Day on Sunday, underscoring the importance of national unity and the historical significance of May 19.
In his message, President Erdogan highlighted May 19, 1919, as a pivotal date in Turkish history, marking the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. This date commemorates Ataturk’s arrival in the Black Sea city of Samsun from Istanbul, which initiated the struggle that culminated in the establishment of modern Türkiye four years later.
May 19 was dedicated by Ataturk in 1938 to the youth of the Turkish nation as Youth and Sports Day. This national holiday is celebrated with sporting and cultural activities, along with official ceremonies throughout the country.
Erdogan described the event as the “foundation stone” for building a strong Türkiye. “This date signifies the spark of independence and future aspirations ignited from every corner of our nation against enemy occupation. The nationwide struggle that started in Samsun spread across Anatolia, reaching critical points in Amasya, Erzurum, Sivas, and ultimately Ankara,” he said.
He reaffirmed the lasting significance of the “spirit of May 19,” emphasizing its role as Türkiye’s greatest asset in addressing contemporary challenges. “Our fight for development, growth, and empowerment can only continue by embracing the essence, principles, ideals, and goals of May 19,” Erdogan stated. He urged the youth to uphold this spirit with determination and unity, emphasizing, “Our progress relies on the May 19 spirit. The youth of the New Türkiye Century must protect this legacy with confidence and solidarity.”
Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz also marked the occasion, expressing gratitude to Türkiye’s heroes and martyrs. He highlighted May 19 as a symbol of national unity and resilience.
Additionally, Türkiye’s parliament speaker, Numan Kurtulmus, extended his congratulations to the Turkish nation on the Commemoration of Ataturk, Youth, and Sports Day. He honored the heroes of the country’s independence struggle and emphasized the critical role of youth in shaping Türkiye’s future.
This national day of remembrance and celebration continues to inspire unity and pride among the Turkish people, reflecting the enduring legacy of Ataturk’s vision for a strong, independent Türkiye.
