Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç issued a message on the 104th anniversary of 30 August – Victory Day. The said message reads as follows:
“I proudly commemorate the 104th anniversary of August 30 Victory Day, marking one of the greatest victories of the Turkish nation, which throughout history has made great sacrifices in the pursuit of independence and freedom.
August 30, 1922, represents far more than the date of a military victory; it marks the beginning of a new era in which our nation took its destiny into its own hands and shaped its future through its own will. The Great Offensive, launched on August 26 and culminating in victory at the Battle of the Commander-in-Chief on August 30, changed the course of the Turkish War of Independence and demonstrated to the entire world the Turkish nation’s determination to continue on its path as an independent state. This historic achievement became one of the defining milestones in the process that would soon culminate in the liberation of İzmir and ultimately pave the way for the establishment of the Republic of Türkiye.
Although 104 years have passed since the Great Victory, the significance of August 30 and its place in the collective memory of our nation remain unchanged. The meaning of August 30 extends far beyond a victory achieved in the past. The Great Victory represents a powerful historical legacy, demonstrating what can be achieved through perseverance in the face of adversity, an unwavering commitment to independence and unity around a common ideal. In this respect, August 30 remains a source of faith and determination that will continue to guide our nation, today and in the future.
This historic legacy also holds particular significance in the Turkish Cypriot people’s struggle for existence. In their efforts to safeguard their existence, identity, freedom and future, the Turkish Cypriot people drew strength from the Turkish nation’s struggle for independence and the spirit of determination that defined it. The resolve embodied by the August 30 Victory—the determination to live in freedom and take ownership of one’s own future—also became an important source of inspiration in the Turkish Cypriot people’s struggle for existence. For this reason, the Great Victory represents not only a major turning point in the history of Türkiye for the Turkish Cypriot people, but also a shared source of pride that continues to reaffirm the ideals of independence and freedom.
On this meaningful occasion, I commemorate with profound respect, gratitude and remembrance Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Commander-in-Chief of the Great Victory and Founder of our Republic, together with all the heroes of the Turkish War of Independence and our cherished martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the independence of our homeland. I also extend my deepest gratitude to our heroic veterans. I commemorate the 104th anniversary of August 30 Victory Day and sincerely hope that the spirit of independence and freedom entrusted to us as the enduring legacy of the Great Victory will live on forever.”