Ankara: Trkiye’s founding leader, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, was commemorated Sunday on the 86th anniversary of his death in a solemn state ceremony at Anitkabir, his mausoleum in the Turkish capital Ankara. The event began at 8:45 a.m. local time as high-ranking state officials walked on the Lion Road.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan paid tribute by writing in the memorial book of Anitkabir, expressing gratitude and commitment to Ataturk’s legacy. “August Ataturk, we once again remember your excellency with grace on the 86th anniversary of your passing to eternity,” Erdogan wrote, emphasizing efforts to strengthen the Republic of Trkiye in security and stability despite regional crises.
Erdogan further committed to building a nation characterized by peace, justice, and development. After leaving his message, he placed a wreath at the mausoleum and participated in a moment of silence, along with the Turkish national anthem, accompanied by a distinguished delegation. During this tribu
te, the Turkish flag was lowered to half-staff.
Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus also honored Ataturk’s memory, reaffirming a national commitment to advancing the Republic with unity and sovereignty. Similarly, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan paid his respects, highlighting Trkiye’s independent foreign policy and its roots in the national struggle.
As is customary on Nov. 10, daily life in Trkiye paused at 9:05 a.m. local time, with sirens marking the exact moment of Ataturk’s death at age 57. Millions across the country observed two minutes of silence. The War of Turkish Independence began on May 19, 1919, leading to the founding of the Republic of Trkiye on Oct. 29, 1923. Ataturk served as the first president until his passing on Nov. 10, 1938, in Istanbul due to cirrhosis.