Tatar: “The Turkish Red Crescent Supported Our People's Struggle for Existence and Heroic Resistance”
Tatar: “The Turkish Red Crescent Supported Our People's Struggle for Existence and Heroic Resistance”
President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ersin Tatar, expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Turkish Red Crescent during the Turkish Cypriot people's past struggle for existence and heroic resistance.
In a message celebrating the 157th anniversary of the Turkish Red Crescent’s founding, President Tatar recalled that the organization was established in 1868 under the name “Ottoman Society for the Aid of Wounded and Sick Soldiers,” and has since extended a helping hand to those in need across the world without discrimination.
Tatar stated, “Even during the most difficult times of the Ottoman Empire, the Turkish Red Crescent considered it a sacred duty to help people with great dedication, despite all the hardships of the period.”
Noting that the Turkish Cypriot people have also endured great suffering throughout history, Tatar emphasized that the Turkish Red Crescent stood by the Turkish Cypriot community during the attacks carried out by EOKA and Greek militias in 1964 and played a crucial role in supporting this struggle. He also highlighted that following the 1974 Peace Operation, the Red Crescent extended aid not only to Turkish Cypriots but also to Greek Cypriots, showcasing the Turkish nation’s humanitarian approach that transcends religion, language, and ethnicity.
In his message, President Tatar pointed out that the Turkish Red Crescent continues to operate today with strong determination, stating:
“Today, the Turkish Red Crescent, remaining true to its deep-rooted legacy spanning over a century and a half, has become one of Turkey’s leading civil society organizations. It continues to operate as a great institution of compassion and aid, offering hope to the oppressed all around the world in the face of all kinds of natural disasters.”
Concluding his message, President Tatar celebrated the 157th anniversary of the Turkish Red Crescent’s founding and said, “On behalf of the Turkish Cypriot people and my state, I extend my most sincere thanks to all Red Crescent staff who contribute to making our region and the world a more peaceful and secure place.”
Source: Vedat KURT