17.03.2014 Ankara

In his March 18th Martyr Remembrance and the 99th Anniversary of the Çanakkale Naval Victory statement, TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “The Çanakkale saga is one of the most important events in world history; the definition of the love of independence, resolve and determination.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu said in his message:

“Çanakkale Wars, the land and naval battles fought on the Gallipoli peninsula between the Allied Forces and the Ottoman Empire in 1915 and 1916 during WWI; being in essence our proclamation to the world that we will not accept defeat even in the harshest of conditions.

We all know how well we come together as a nation during difficult time, to embrace each other and the fact that none considers risk to their own lives when the homeland is concerned. The people of these lands are brave and stalwart. Heads held high and proud, they’ve always lived independently and will continue to do so.

We must know history well in order to appreciate where we stand today. Analyzing our past, we must pass our findings on to the younger generations so that we may reiterate the precious nature of our unity and solidarity for the future of this, our heavenly homeland. The duty which falls to us is to plant our flag the furthest in the race for civilization, economy and justice.

It is with these thoughts and feelings that I, on behalf of the Turkish business community remember with great gratitude Veteran Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and all of the heroes and martyrs who have it possible for our nation to have such day to be proud of.”