The 101st anniversary celebrations of Izmir’s liberation were marked by great enthusiasm. Izmir residents flocked to the events held at Cumhuriyet Square, where they watched traditional dances and performances with keen interest.
IZMIR (İGFA) – The celebrations of Izmir’s 101st anniversary of liberation, which began with a Victory March, were filled with great excitement. Mayor of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, Tunç Soyer, who attended the ceremony held at Cumhuriyet Square, said, “101 years ago, our ancestors completed the march for independence, culminating with the Great Offensive, and liberated Izmir from enemy occupation on September 9, 1922. This struggle also became a source of hope for oppressed and exploited nations worldwide. Our ancestors demonstrated to the whole world that no force could stand against the determination and unity of a nation defending its independence with determination.”
“September 9th has gone down in history as the first day of peace.” Mayor Tunç Soyer emphasized that September 9th is not only a date but also a symbol of freedom and independence for Izmir and Turkey. He stated, “Our ancestors’ love for freedom and their belief opened the door to our Republic. That’s why Izmir is the city of liberation and establishment. Our ancestors left us these lands by giving their lives and shedding their blood. And the fruit of this great victory was peace. September 9th is not only the end of the war but also the beginning of peace. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic, used his will to promote peace among the world’s nations just as much as he did for wars. He defined the policy of a state that had just emerged from war as ‘Peace at Home, Peace in the World.’ That’s why Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is a hero not only in times of war but also in times of peace. As we enter the second century of our Republic, which Atatürk referred to as the ‘sweet sun of peace,’ we will come together once again. And we will once again demonstrate our determination against those who want to imprison these lands in darkness. Because we are the youth to whom Atatürk entrusted independence and the Republic. Because we are Izmir, the city of liberation and establishment. The challenging conditions we are going through are not an obstacle for us; they are the source of our courage.”
“Long Live the Republic of Turkey!” Mayor Soyer emphasized the importance of the Republic and said, “With the strength and inspiration we draw from September 9th, we will embrace the trunk of the centuries-old Republic tree with even greater determination. We will crown the second century of our Republic with democracy and peace. With unwavering belief in all of this, I remember with deep respect and reverence Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all our comrades on this occasion. Happy 101st anniversary of September 9th, the symbol of our glorious victory and liberation. Long live our independence. Long live the Republic of Turkey!”
The celebrations continued with folk dance teams performing Zeybek dances, various dance shows, and activities.