The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Tunisia celebrated today the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Turkish Republic, in the presence of Tunisian Minister of Tourism Sofiane Tekaya, Turkish Ambassador to Tunisia Ahmet Misbah Demircan, a number of Tunisian officials, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Tunisia, representatives of civil society organisations and the business sector, as well as Turkish and Tunisian nationals.
The ceremony opened with the International Singing Ensemble, accompanied by a group of children, performing the national anthems of Türkiye and Tunisia. This was followed by a video address delivered remotely by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who reviewed his country’s history and journey since the proclamation of the Republic in 1923, highlighting its progress and achievements in defence, the economy, education and foreign policy.
Erdoğan affirmed that Türkiye would continue its efforts to build a country free from terrorism and strengthen security, stability, peace and prosperity. He highlighted Türkiye’s role in promoting regional and international stability and contributing to European security, alongside its diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in crisis-hit regions, particularly the Gaza Strip. He also noted that the Turkish city of Antalya would host the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change from 9 to 20 November.
In his address, Turkish Ambassador to Tunisia Ahmet Misbah Demircan extended his congratulations to Turkish nationals residing in Tunisia on the occasion of the national holiday. He paid tribute to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic, his comrades-in-arms, and the martyrs and veterans whose sacrifices contributed to the country’s independence and the establishment of the Republic.
Demircan explained that, under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Türkiy continued to achieve progress in defence, the economy, education and foreign policy. He stressed that the country was working to build a strong and prosperous state that enjoys security and peace while preserving its identity and its role in upholding justice and truth. He noted that wars, conflicts and crises undermine shared human values, underscoring the need to intensify international efforts to build a more just and secure world.
The ambassador highlighted Türkiye’s position within the international security system, noting that it has the second-largest army in NATO and is an integral part of Europe, playing an important role in supporting security and prosperity across the continent.
He also addressed efforts to strengthen regional stability, noting that the Mecca Agreement involving Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan reflected a commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region. He further highlighted Türkiye’s role in diplomatic mediation in crisis areas and its humanitarian initiatives aimed at ending bloodshed and alleviating suffering, including efforts to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.
On climate action, Demircan stressed the importance of addressing climate change and strengthening international cooperation to tackle its consequences. He pointed to Türkiye’s hosting of the 31st Conference of the Parties on climate change in Antalya from 9 to 20 November, reflecting the country’s engagement in international efforts to address environmental challenges.
Regarding Tunisian-Turkish relations, the ambassador emphasised the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries and their peoples, reaffirming the commitment to further strengthening these ties and expanding areas of partnership in pursuit of mutual interests. He also expressed appreciation for Tunisians who joined the Turkish community in celebrating the national occasion, stressing the importance of continued cooperation and engagement between the two countries.
For his part, Tunisian Minister of Tourism Sofiane Tekaya affirmed his country’s desire to strengthen cooperation with Türkiye, particularly in tourism. He invited Turkish investors to explore the investment opportunities available in Tunisia, especially in areas with promising natural and tourism assets, including Aïn Draham. Such investments, he noted, could help diversify Tunisia’s tourism offering, promote development in inland regions and strengthen the economic partnership between the two countries.
Türkiye celebrates Republic Day on 29 October each year, commemorating the proclamation of the Republic in 1923. The occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on the country’s history, achievements and aspirations for continued development and a stronger position on the international stage.
TunisianMonitorNews (Douha Essaafi)
