Kuala lumpur: One of the most brutal coup attempts in Trkiye's political history took place exactly ten years ago, on 15 July 2016. Orchestrated by a terrorist network that had insidiously infiltrated the institutions of our state, this coup attempt sought to plunge Trkiye into years of chaos and subjugate the future of our nation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, by standing up for their independence and future to confront the coup plotters, the Turkish nation asserted to the entire world through their heroic resistance that the will of the people can never be subjugated on these lands. The Turkish nation's prudence, courage, and foresight on the night of 15 July are unprecedented in the history of world democracy.
This treacherous insurrection by the Fetullahist Terrorist Organisation (FETO) was more than a conventional coup attempt; it was an all-out act of invasion directed against Trkiye's independence. The primary targets of the putschists were emblematic institutions embodying the national will and independence, namely the Presidential Complex and the Grand National Assembly of Trkiye.
On the night of 15 July, a public statement highlighted that no power was greater than that of the people, made with confidence that the Turkish nation would stand firm in defence of its will. That night, citizens took to the streets with faith and determination, refusing to submit to the domination of this terrorist organisation.
Risking their lives to defend the country's independence, democratic achievements, and free will, the nation repelled the putschists, inscribing an epic of national will that shall be remembered with pride for generations. Inspired by this brave stance, swift actions were taken to eliminate negative consequences of the insurrection, introducing comprehensive reforms to remove antidemocratic formations from state institutions.
Critical achievements were attained through operations conducted both domestically and internationally to eliminate other terrorist organisations. The launch of the Terror-Free Trkiye initiative marked a new chapter in the nation's story of unity and solidarity. This process is advancing towards its destination with an inclusive approach through the diligence of security forces and support from the political establishment.
There is a belief that the success of the 'Terror-free Trkiye' process will contribute not only to the country's peace and tranquillity but also to that of the region. In the aftermath of the struggle against those who attempted this coup and targeted economic prosperity, significant steps have been taken towards a more prosperous future through projects in sectors like energy, transport, healthcare, agriculture, technology, and defence.
With the National Technology Move, strides have been made in the defence, aviation, and space industries over the past decade. Developments in electric and smart transport systems, alongside substantial investments in health and agriculture sectors, aim to honor the sacrifices of the people.
During this process, brand products have been developed, gaining worldwide recognition. Among these are the electric automobile TOGG, national fighter aircraft KAAN, national corvettes, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Over the past 10 years, Trkiye has emerged as an effective actor in resolving crises and conflicts at regional and global levels, guided by an enterprising foreign policy approach. The nation has taken responsibility for maintaining peace and supporting the oppressed and righteous, rather than the powerful, in all crisis regions.
If Trkiye is now regarded as a country whose contribution is sought, whose word carries weight, and who is consulted on regional and global matters, this success is attributed to the will of the nation, who stood up for their independence and future on the night of 15 July.
The fight against terrorism remains prominent on the foreign policy agenda, with international cooperation being essential. The internal disintegration process within FETO's overseas network has accelerated over the past two years, although some countries continue to covertly support this organisation.
There is a call for vigilance against FETO, which exploits democracy, freedom, and human rights to achieve its ambitions. As a nation that saw 253 martyred by the putschists on 15 July, the primary expectation from the global community is to support Trkiye's legitimate struggle.
Global peace, security, and prosperity can only be achieved through a resolute fight against terrorist organisations without distinction and through sincere cooperation.