Enthusiastic Celebration Marks 20 July in Famagusta
The 49th anniversary of the Peace Operation, known as 20 July Peace and Freedom Day, was celebrated with great enthusiasm in various districts of the country. A special ceremony was held in Famagusta to commemorate this important day.
The first part of the ceremony took place at the Victory Monument, where wreaths were laid on the monument in accordance with the protocol. As a moment of silence filled the air, flags were raised and the National Anthem was played, honoring the significance of the occasion.
The second ceremony was held on İsmet İnönü Boulevard in Famagusta. It began with the district governor, the commander, and the mayor celebrating the troops and the people. The flags were again raised alongside a moment of silence and the National Anthem.
Throughout the ceremony, speeches and poems were delivered, emphasizing the meaning and importance of the day. Rasime Muratağa Yalıner, a teacher from Famagusta Vocational High School, delivered a speech highlighting the significance of the occasion.
Following that, Dilayda Sözbilir, a student from the same school, recited the poem “The Epic of Cyprus,” capturing the spirit and valor of Turkish Cypriots in their struggles for liberation. Infantry Captain Bahadır Kılıç, from the 4th Infantry Regiment Commander, concluded the ceremony with his speech.
In his address, Kılıç conveyed his wishes for a Happy Liberation Day to the Turkish Cypriots. He acknowledged their resilient spirit and emphasized that the 20th of July marked a turning point in their history, leading to enlightenment and the establishment of a society dedicated to freedom and humane living. He proudly stated that they carry the flag of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as a symbol of freedom and independence, with their heads held high.
The ceremony concluded with a vibrant folk dance performance and a parade by the Akdoğan Youth Center Folk Dance Ensemble. The atmosphere was filled with joy and pride as the celebrations came to an end.
20 July Peace and Freedom Day serves as a reminder of the bravery and determination of the Turkish Cypriot people. It highlights their unwavering commitment to their nation’s honor and their relentless pursuit of freedom and independence.
