Sezer: Ataturk’s ideas are timeless

Speaking at the first International Ataturk Symposium, held jointly by Ankara University and Kemalist Thought Association at Ankara University campus, Sezer said Ataturk, with the independence war he commanded, the republic he founded and the reforms he implemented was a historic personage that was respected all over the world.

Ataturk had united the Turkish people, said Sezer, and the only thing that made him realize these impossible tasks were his undying trust and love for his people.

The purpose of the reform undertaken by Ataturk were to turn Turkey into a modern country, said Sezer, noting that secularism, rule of law, supremacy of science and freedom were the main foundations of his efforts.

He noted that Ataturk had seen war, if not fought for national survival, as murder, adding that his statement, "Peace at home, peace in the world" reflected this attitude.

He also said he believed this symposium would be a success.

The Kemalist Thought Association Director Ertugrul Kazanci noted that Ataturk’s contribution to humanity was more evident now then ever, and added that the humane, science oriented ideas were still relevant.

Ankara Governor Yahya Gur and some ambassadors attended the symposium.