Turkish defence chief hails martyrs, veterans’ role in Türkiye, Azerbaijan’s future

The heroic sacrifices made by martyrs and veterans in the name of the independence of Türkiye and Azerbaijan, the unity of their peoples and the future of the two countries constitute the most reliable guarantee, Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler said.

According to Haber Global, Güler made the remarks while addressing veterans.

He said veterans are a living embodiment of the people’s determination to achieve independence and freedom.

“During the most critical periods of our glorious history, you fought with tremendous courage and determination for our sacred values. At times on the border, at times on the front line, and at times during the most difficult days for our country and Azerbaijan, you faithfully served your homeland and your duty and never hesitated to make sacrifices. Each time, with the same high fighting spirit, you took on responsibility and made an enormous contribution to bringing our countries to where they are today and enabling each of us to look to the future with confidence,” Güler said, addressing the veterans.

The minister said that amid ongoing crises and conflicts in neighbouring regions, Türkiye is acting as a responsible state that safeguards its own security while contributing to regional peace and stability.

“On the one hand, in order to ensure the security of our borders and the peace of our people, we maintain our deterrence capabilities at the highest possible level; on the other, we demonstrate an approach that prioritizes peace, stability and dialogue in resolving international issues. Türkiye’s activity is growing stronger every day across a vast area stretching from the Balkans to the Caucasus, from the Black Sea to the Middle East and Africa.

The missions carried out by our heroic armed forces in various regions also provide the clearest demonstration of our country’s weight and responsibility within the international security architecture. To preserve this position and strengthen it further, we are constantly developing the capabilities and professional skills of our armed forces.

The domestic defence industry, which has made significant progress in recent years thanks to the support and encouragement of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, makes a particularly significant contribution to strengthening our country’s power and international influence, from security to the economy,” Güler emphasised.

By Tamilla Hasanova