Bahçeli extolls 'Türkiye's progress' on republic's centennial

ANKARA

Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli has asserted that the Turkish Republic, as it approaches its centennial celebration, has undergone significant development.

"By walking in the footsteps of the past, the bright days of today and the future will definitely be achieved," Bahçeli said during his party's parliamentary meeting on Oct. 24.

The MHP leader said a peaceful nation and a strong state would be realized through the republic, assuring that the Turkish Republic would "endure for eternity."

Bahçeli responded to critics arguing that the presidential system had altered the country's regime.

"The government system is different, the regime is different. On Oct. 29, 1923, the regime was named and the issue was closed never to be opened again... Just as there is no return from the republic, there will be no return or deviation from the presidential system," he stated.

Regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Bahçeli asserted Türkiye's "duty to protect and support those in need."

"It is the legacy of our ancestors to undertake the mission of protecting and guarding Gaza... If my state wants it, my nation supports it and the conditions require it, I would be a disgrace if I did not take the path to protect the children in Gaza and to take the stand of humanity with a slingshot against missiles," he said.