"The Republic, founded under the leadership of the Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, stands as a testament to independence, justice, law and the spirit of fairness. The Republic is a project of civilization, carrying the torch of freedom, knowledge and reason, and serving as a guarantee of national sovereignty. It is not just a form of governance but a symbol of modernization, progress, the future and enlightenment, connecting us and preserving our unity.

Following the triumph at the Erzurum Congress during the National Struggle, Mustafa Kemal announced that the governing system would be transformed into a Republic. On October 29, 1923, he officially declared the Republic, with the aim of securing the independence of Anatolian lands and the unity of the nation.

The Republic, fundamentally secular in essence, laid the groundwork for extensive societal reforms after its proclamation. Progress was made in areas such as industry, science and education. Under the leadership of Atatürk, the foundations were laid for profound transformations in society, from the adoption of a new alphabet to the establishment of Village schools and Village Institutes (Köy Enstitüleri), investments in the health sector, and the opening of factories. The acceptance of the Civil Code bestowed rights upon women, cementing the foundations for profound, lasting changes. A beacon of enlightenment has been lit, destined to shine into eternity, preserving a centuries-old historical and cultural heritage.

With the Republic came not only the assurance of independence but also the guarantee of national sovereignty. Throughout these endeavors, the core of 'hope' has consistently remained at the heart of the Republic. This hope finds its source in the youth.

Even in the Republic's 100th year, the seeds of hope for minds, hearts and the future continue to be sown. The youth are nurturing these seeds in every field, whether in science, sports, or the arts, carrying the Republic into eternity.

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's words, "O rising new generation! The future belongs to you. We established the Republic, but it is you who will elevate and perpetuate it," affirm his unwavering trust in the youth. Looking back over the past century, we see that Atatürk's words hold true. Our youth have consistently protected the Republic and they will continue to do so in all circumstances. 

We will persistently work with all our might to preserve the Republic of Türkiye, entrusted to us by Atatürk, proclaiming, 'It is my greatest work,' and we will continue to walk on the path he forged. With love for our homeland in our hearts and guided by the light of Atatürk's principles and reforms, we shall carry the Republic torch that was ignited 100 years ago into eternity. We will always glorify the Republic, whether by the crystal-clear waters of our country, akin to Atatürk's eyes, or the boundless sky that stretches from the lands he once trod upon.

To revive the spirit of the Republic with even greater intensity, we organized a special 10-day celebration programme for the 100th year, bringing together the people of Bodrum.

The 100th-anniversary celebrations, which commenced with the Bodrum Cup, continued with sports competitions, tournaments, theatrical performances, documentary and film screenings, discussions and concerts.

Following the 'çökertme' local folk dance performance with 100 dancers at Kumbahçe Square, "Solo Türk, the Unshakable Power of the Sky," our aerial heroes, graced the skies above Bodrum. We celebrated the spirit of the Republic's 100th year with immense enthusiasm, both on land and in the skies, as well as at sea.

We shall continue to carry the Republic torch with torchlight processions to be held on the evening of October 29. Subsequently, we will share unforgettable moments with concerts simultaneously in Belediye Square and Turgutreis Atatürk Square. I invite all our citizens to come to the squares, holding our national flags in their hands, and shout, 'Long Live the Republic!'

I wholeheartedly celebrate the 100th anniversary of our Republic, founded with the leadership of Atatürk and the immense sacrifice of the Turkish nation. I extend my gratitude to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, his comrades and the Turkish nation for bequeathing the Republic to us for all time.