Democracy and National Unity Day is a public holiday in Turkey and marks national unity against a coup attempt on July 15, 2016. The coup attempt, which involved the bombing Turkish of buildings, killed 251 citizens and left 2 thousand people injured.
"I thank more than 2 thousand of our July 15 heroes," Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hakan Fidan, said while delivering his remarks at the Democracy and National Unity Day commemoration ceremony held at the Turkish embassy in Jakarta on Saturday.
He highlighted that the collective effort of the Turkish people and the security forces helped thwart the coup attempt.
"FETO (Fethullah Gülen Terrorist Organization) followers think that their weapons, airplanes, and tanks will scare and intimidate the people of Anatolia. They were wrong," he said.
He prayed that God would bless the fallen heroes and provide patience to those who lost their loved ones.
Within the past seven years, the fight against FETO has been a main priority for the Turkish government, he informed.
"Thanks to the hard work of all of our institutions, especially embassies and the National Intelligence Organization, we have ended their activities in most of the countries that they reside in," he said.
In several countries, the Turkish government has managed to shut down educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, or other FETO institutions operating under certain covers.
During the event, the minister also announced that the Turkish government will restrict the movement of FETO through full coordination with government institutions and effective cooperation with allies.
Therefore, it has become important for Turkish citizens who live overseas, including in Indonesia, to act cohesively and remain alert against FETO, he reiterated.
This struggle certainly does not only apply for FETO, but also other terrorist organizations. The struggle against terror organizations that threaten the security and unity of Turkey is what has united the country, he said.
The minister also highlighted that due to Turkey's pressure, the post of special coordinator for counter-terrorism will be established at NATO.
Moreover, several studies will be conducted to review the counter-terrorism guideline that has not been updated for more than 10 years.
Lastly, the minister wished Turkish citizens a happy Democracy and National Unity Day.
"May God always help our country and nation," he remarked.
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Reporter: Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Sri Haryati
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