Turkey will eliminate all threats against its existence, Erdoğan says on 'Victory Day'

Turkey will preserve its determination to defeat all "threats, attacks and attempts to sabotage its economic and political independence," just as it did in the War of Independence 95 years ago, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said in his message marking "Victory Day" on Aug. 30.
 
Victory Day marks the Turkish victory against Greek forces at the Battle of Dumlupınar, the final battle of the War of Independence in 1922.

"The unyielding fight we have been waging against bloody terrorist organizations such as [the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization] FETÖ, [the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant] DAESH, the [outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party] PKK, and the [Syrian Kurdish Democratic Union Party] PYD is the clearest example of our determination, without making any compromises on on the law, justice and democracy. With its struggle, Turkey not only protects its citizens but also contributes to global security. Turkey will continue to eliminate threats against its existence at their root," Erdoğan stated. 

 "The Victory of Aug. 30 is the declaration of our nation's will to the entire world to live independently on its homeland, which it deems to be more precious than its own life. Having shaped the history with its political and social consequences, this victory became a source of inspiration and hope for many oppressed nations who fought a war of independence against imperialists," he added.

Main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu highlighted the theme of "justice" in his message issued to mark the anniversary of Victory Day.

"Our love for freedom and independence has been alive from Aug. 30, 1922 until today. All citizens of this country will live as equal rights, justice will rule, and the...