Islamabad (VOM) : The ceremony held with great enthusiasm, was attended by distinguished guests, including Pakistan’s Interior Minister Sarfaraz Bugti and Sindh Governor Karam Tessori, who were warmly welcomed by Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Mehmet Pacaci.Ambassador of Turkiye H. E. Dr. Pacaci’s address not only paid tribute to the Republic’s centenary but also expressed deep gratitude to the friends and allies who joined in commemorating this significant milestone. He honored the visionary Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Republic’s founding father, and paid respect to the memory of the martyrs and courageous veterans who made immense sacrifices for the noble cause, entrusting Turkiye’s beautiful homeland to its people at the cost of their lives.Ambassador Dr. Pacaci underscored that the Republic of Turkiye stands as a testament to the resilience of a noble nation that would rather face formidable challenges than compromise on its fundamental values of liberty, independence, and honor. The character of independence defines its national identity.He highlighted that the Turkish War of Independence, a remarkable chapter in Turkiye’s history, was not only a victory for the Turkish nation but also holds a well-documented place in shared history with Pakistan. The sacrifices and unwavering support from South Asian Muslims during the Khilafat Movement, along with their political and financial contributions to the Turkish cause, remain eternally etched in memory.Furthermore, the Turkish Independence War serves as a profound source of inspiration for Muslims in the subcontinent as they pursue their own struggles for freedom. The founding father of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, expressed deep admiration for the Turkish struggle and its extraordinary leader, Atatürk. Atatürk’s legacy not only transformed Turkiye into a modern nation but also served as an exemplary model for the world, especially for Muslim nations in the Far East.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Message, In a significant moment, Ambassador Dr. Pacaci played a video message from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, further emphasizing the significance of this National Day and the Centenary of the Republic of Turkiye, reinforcing the enduring bonds of friendship and shared history between Turkiye and its global allies.President Erdogan, in his Republic Day message, conveyed heartfelt congratulations to citizens in Turkiye and across the world as they celebrated the Centenary of the Republic. He expressed his gratitude to all friends and guests who shared in the joy of celebration.”Today, we are elated and proud to have reached the Centenary of the Republic,” he said in his message. Drawing inspiration from their deep-rooted history and ancestral values, President Erdogan emphasized their commitment to fortifying the Republic as it embarks on its new century, reinforcing its foundations for the future.The President commemorated the heroes and founder of the Republic, Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and paid respects to the martyrs and veterans who sacrificed for the homeland. Turkiye’s Republic, representing a culmination of its long history, aims to strengthen and prepare for the future, drawing inspiration from its heritage.He emphasized the commitment to ensuring the Republic thrives, highlighting the progress and reforms achieved over the last 22 years. The Presidential Government system aligns with Atatürk’s vision of full independence and unconditional sovereignty.The President’s vision is to make the Republic’s second century a period of global influence and to continue aiding those in need worldwide, standing as a symbol of hope for oppressed people. Despite challenges, the President said that they are determined to realize the Century of Turkiye, a great and powerful nation, with the support of the people and by overcoming obstacles.The message closes with warm Republic Day congratulations extended to citizens both within Turkiye and abroad.