Mr. Speaker, today, as the first Canadian of Turkish heritage elected to Parliament, I am deeply honoured to join students from the Turkish Canadian community, who are right here in the gallery above, as we celebrate the 102nd anniversary of the Republic of Turkey.
This is a very special day for Turkish Canadians.
October 29 reaffirms our NATO ally's commitment to democracy and national sovereignty. Turkish Canadians honour the legacy of Atatürk, whose vision and determination gave birth to a secular, democratic and contemporary state. His enduring principle of “Peace at Home, Peace in the World” reminds us of the importance of stability and co-operation among both nations and the people. Atatürk's belief that sovereignty belongs unconditionally to the nation deeply resonates here in Canada, where democracy, freedom and diversity define who we are.
Long live Turkey, long live Canada and long live our enduring friendship and alliance.
Cumhuriyet bayraminiz kutlu olsun.