President Tufan Erhürman issued a written statement on the occasion of the 87th anniversary of the passing of the Great Leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, which reads as follows:

"A leader is someone who, in a given period, renders great service to their country and alters the destiny of their people. One whose actions and ideas have guided other nations, illuminating not only their own era but also the path to the future, is indisputably a great leader.
Undoubtedly, one of the peoples most deeply influenced by the deeds, thoughts, and values of Atatürk is the Turkish Cypriot people. Their character has been shaped by a profound love for Atatürk and a steadfast attachment to his ideas, values, and ideals—an attachment that has provided both hope and a guiding light throughout their arduous struggle for existence.
Above all, Atatürk appealed to children and youth, entrusting them with the mission of carrying his thoughts, ideals, and achievements into the future. 
His profound confidence stemmed not only from his faith in the young—who would receive sound education and upbringing—but also from his people, who demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience even under the most difficult circumstances.

 The goal is clear. Equality, justice, and a civilisation that stands above the level of its time.  Science and art are the most effective instruments for attaining these objectives.
In one of the most frequently quoted passages of his Tenth Year Address, Atatürk declares: “What we have done can never be deemed sufficient.”
 
 
Though the War of Independence had been won, the Republic founded, and, in his own words, remarkable achievements accomplished in a short time, Atatürk still did not regard these as sufficient.
Has there been any work done for us, the Turkish Cypriot people — deeds that have been accomplished?

Although our accomplishments cannot compare to those realised under the leadership of Atatürk up to 1933, certain progress has nevertheless been made. Still, what we have managed remains well below even what Atatürk once deemed “not sufficient.”
Moreover, regrettably, some of what had once been achieved has also been undone.

 If we are sincere in our commitment to walk in Atatürk’s path, we, as the Turkish Cypriot people, must know that there still lies before us a very long road to walk.

Yet if we recall what Atatürk accomplished together with his comrades and his people under the most trying circumstances, we must also accept that we have no right to fall into the comformism saying, that “nothing can be achieved in this country” or “we can do nothing.”

We shall raise our children and youth well.

We shall have complete self-confidence, for its source is none other than our own people.
In the section of the Tenth Year Speech I referred to above, Atatürk says, “We shall work harder.”

Indeed, before the spiritual presence of the Great Leader, we pledge:

Together, we shall work harder.
Before the cherished memory of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, I bow once again with respect, affection, and gratitude.