Private Allahverdi Kılıç, who was martyred in Güvercinlik village, was honored with a ceremony held at the site of his death.

The commemoration, attended by senior officials, featured heartfelt speeches emphasizing the enduring spirit of independence and freedom for the Turkish Cypriot people.

In his address, TRNC President Ersin Tatar underscored that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) symbolizes the independence, freedom, and sovereignty of the Turkish Cypriot community.

He affirmed the nation’s role as a key player in the Eastern Mediterranean and highlighted its importance as an independent Turkish state.

The ceremony took place in front of the guard post where Allahverdi Kılıç was stationed. It commenced with the laying of wreaths and continued with a moment of silence and the singing of the National Anthem.

Lieutenant Halil Dalkılıç from the 4th Infantry Regiment gave a moving speech, paying tribute to the Turkish Cypriot fighters who bravely stood against their enemies.

He said, “No one should doubt that we are ready to sacrifice many more lives like Allahverdi Kılıç for our homeland, our flag, and our freedom.”

Dalkılıç emphasized that they had pledged to serve their nation and republic with honor and would remain faithful to this vow until their last breath.

He also addressed ongoing challenges, stating, “Let the world know that we will not hesitate in the face of Greek propaganda that has persisted for years. We will either become martyrs or veterans in our fight.”

President of the Association for Martyrs’ Families and Disabled Veterans, Gürsel Benan, also delivered a poignant message to the martyrs, declaring, “Your legacy is our responsibility.”

He stressed that just as the martyrs protected this land, the Turkish Cypriot people would continue to safeguard it.

He reaffirmed that fighting for freedom and independence remains the primary duty of the Turkish Cypriot community.

Benan also credited Türkiye for ensuring that, since July 20, 1974, Turkish Cypriots have had the right to determine their own future. He reiterated that they would remain united in defending their homeland, regardless of any future propaganda or threats.

President Ersin Tatar echoed these sentiments, stating that the bullet that took Allahverdi Kılıç’s life was aimed at the entire TRNC. He emphasized that the TRNC remains a symbol of Turkish Cypriot independence and freedom.

Tatar also touched on recent attempts to push for the withdrawal of Turkish troops from the island, dismissing such efforts as impossible.

He affirmed that the Turkish Cypriot people, with the unwavering support of Türkiye, would continue to thwart any such attempts.

In his concluding remarks, Tatar emphasized that any potential solution in Cyprus must include recognition of sovereign rights and a two-state solution, reaffirming, “The TRNC is permanent and represents our sovereignty.”