Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer issued a Republic Day message in October 2006 praising the founding of Türkiye as an exceptional achievement in modern history, one that reflected the Turkish nation's commitment to independence and to the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Sezer described secularism as the cornerstone of Türkiye's transformation, arguing that it underpins democracy, fundamental rights, and freedoms, and that its extension into the legal and educational systems allows citizens to practice their faith without restriction.
The president warned that the country's democratic and secular order faced deliberate threats from certain quarters seeking to expand their influence, and he urged citizens to avoid any conduct that exploits religion or sows division. "Religion should never be used for political purposes," he said.
Sezer also outlined broader national goals, describing Türkiye as a significant regional and global actor with the potential to become a major world power by leveraging the benefits of globalization to raise living standards.
He closed by reaffirming Türkiye's resolve to fight terrorism, framing the effort as essential to preserving national unity and territorial integrity.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in October 2006, in its own words.