Turkish PM joins commemoration of Atatürk at New York Consulate

WASHINGTON

Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım on Nov. 10 attended a commemoration ceremony for the 79th anniversary of the death of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, organized at the New York Consulate.   

Marking the 79th anniversary of the passing of Atatürk, the premier evoked Atatürk's famed principle of "Peace at Home, Peace in the World".

"With that principle, Turkey stands before all injustices, opens its arms to the oppressed, pays a huge price for the regional and global peace of humanity, and hosts millions of displaced people, sharing our bread with them. Those who put the blame on us should first look at what they have
done and what they have not done for the suffering in the world, then decide," hesaid.

On recent strains in Turkish-U.S. relations, he said, "The issues we are facing today with the United States of America are temporary.

“Turkey's friendship is always important and valuable for all of our allies."

He called on Turkish citizens living in the U.S. and worldwide to "feel comfortable" and "keep their heads up," explaining: "Turkey has never deviated from its path to democracy, and development, nor will it ever do so."

The premier also said the world is going through a "very troubled period," with no country in the world safe from threats.

"New York is as safe as Istanbul. Washington is safe as Ankara," he said.

He also urged all Turkish-Americans to increase their representation in government and other community institutions.

"Boosting our representation in federal and local institutions will contribute significantly to making our voice heard. The work you do in social areas carries a separate importance. Work in that field not only enhances the solidarity between our people, but also contributes to peace and serenity in the
communities you live in at the same time," Yıldırım said.

Yıldırım kicked off his official visit to the U.S. on Nov. 7 and met with the U.S. Vice President Mike Pence late on Nov. 9. Later in the day, he headed to New York as part of his visit.