In celebration of the 101st anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, a parade and festival took place along Dereboyu in Lefkoşa on Tuesday.

Led by the Security Forces Command Band and attended by prominent leaders, the event showcased traditional folk performances and underscored a continued commitment to strengthening the republic.

The parade, beginning from the Mehmet Akif Avenue roundabout and concluding at the Avenue venue, was attended by President Ersin Tatar, Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Lefkoşa Yasin Ekrem Serim, the Commander of the Cyprus Turkish Security Forces Brigadier General İlker Görgülü, as well as various ministers, members of parliament, students, and local citizens.

Following the parade, a series of speeches emphasized the enduring values of the Republic. Minister of National Education Nazım Çavuşoğlu reminded the audience of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s legacy, noting that teachers work tirelessly to uphold the republic’s principles.

He affirmed, “As long as our youth stand firm here, we will strive relentlessly to elevate our country and bring it to an international standard of living.”

President Ersin Tatar opened his address by honouring the memory of Atatürk, reflecting on how Türkiye’s independence struggle illuminated the path for the Turkish Cypriot community.

He remarked, “One hundred and one years ago, Türkiye was founded, and since then, our cooperation with the Republic of Türkiye has fueled our collective pursuit of a secure future for our people.”

The Security Forces Command Band concluded the event with a spirited performance, followed by a folk dance show by the Lapta Alsancak Çamlıbel Municipality Folk Dance Team, adding cultural flair to the festivities and honouring Türkiye’s heritage.