The Rector of İskenderun Technical University (İSTE), Prof. Dr. Tolga Depci, issued a message on the occasion of the 85th anniversary of Hatay's annexation to the motherland on July 23, 1939.
The Rector of İskenderun Technical University (İSTE), Prof. Dr. Tolga Depci, issued a message on the occasion of the 85th anniversary of Hatay's annexation to the motherland on July 23, 1939. In his message, Rector Depci stated:
"Our ancient city of Hatay, the cradle of civilizations, became a part of the Republic of Türkiye 85 years ago. Beyond a geographical unification, it is a concrete manifestation of the determination and resoluteness in Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's statement, 'Hatay is my personal matter.' The incorporation of these lands, where peace and tolerance have reigned for centuries, into the motherland through a diplomatic victory is a rare success in the world.
At the end of the diplomatic process initiated by Gazi Mustafa Kemal Pasha with the declaration 'A Turkish homeland of forty centuries cannot remain captive in enemy hands,' patriotism triumphed. Today, we are here with the same love for our country, and with the awareness of upholding our glorious history and values. As a nation, we have demonstrated to the world countless times what it means to be united. The noble Turkish Nation will exist on these lands, where we have succeeded in being parts of an unparalleled mosaic without discrimination of religion, language, race, sect, or gender, for many more centuries.
As a Rector who has devoted his heart to this city and considers it his second homeland, I celebrate the anniversary of Hatay's annexation to the motherland and remember with mercy and gratitude all those who have strived for this cause, especially
