Throughout history, nations have experienced periods of turbulence and resilience, marked by both misfortune and triumphs. A decade ago, the attempted coup orchestrated by the Fethullahist Terrorist Organisation (FETO), on the night of July 15, 2016 stands as a stark example of such a moment in Türkiye’s recent history. FETO aimed at toppling the democratically elected government and subverting the constitutional order. This insidious attempt was decisively thwarted by the foresight, unity, and unwavering resolve of the Turkish nation. Turkish people, irrespective of political, religious, or ethnic differences, poured into the squares and streets, resisting tanks and confronting armed forces with nothing but their national flags and unyielding determination so as to prevent the heinous attempt. On that dark night, as a result of the acts of terrorism committed by FETO, 253 of our citizens were martyred and more than 2,000 citizens injured. Thus, July 15 has since become a symbol of national resilience and unity, declared as Democracy and National Unity Day. It serves as a stark reminder of the threats that countries may face and the extraordinary strength they can muster in response. This critical juncture assisted to reinforce Türkiye’s institutional foundations and reaffirm the collective commitment of its people to freedom, democracy and national sovereignty. In response, the Turkish government launched a comprehensive and multi-faceted campaign domestically and internationally to dismantle FETO’s network and bring those responsible to justice in accordance with the principles of the rule of law and fundamental rights and freedoms. Most of the FETO presence have been dispersed globally by means of international co-operation by friendly and allied countries. Besides being a terrorist organisation, FETO also has an organised crime structure with a cult-like character that has rarely been seen in history. It consists of multi-layered international and secret cells that sometimes present themselves as non-governmental organisations, as educational institutions, sometimes as commercial entities and/or under the guise of a religious community to advance their hidden goals. This shadowy and shady organisational structure, which abuses all universal values for its own secret agenda, poses a major national security threat to all countries and societies in which it operates. Hence, the fight against FETO is one of the most important components of Türkiye’s national security at home and abroad. The death of the organisation’s ringleader Fethullah Gülen in the United States on October 20, 2024, will not make us complacent. We are fully cognizant of the fact that the struggle against these types of devious organisations is not a 100-metre run but a marathon. Hence, we will continue our relentless fight with determination until this dark organisation is entirely eradicated. Since the July 15 coup attempt, Türkiye continued to achieve remarkable success and has made noteworthy strides across multiple sectors by reinforcing its democratic governance, enhancing its economy, advancing its industries, particularly defense area, expanding global humanitarian outreach, and becoming a key player in regional diplomacy, despite the challenges such as Covid-19 and February 6 earthquakes. Turkish economy has demonstrated resilience and sustained growth, maintaining its position as 16th, with the total GDP of $1.64tn in 2025, among the world’s top 20 economies. Our exports have reached to $273.4bn in 2025 and is expected to be over $400bn in the coming years. Türkiye has not only completed its mega infrastructure projects (Eurasia Tunnel), also has added new ones (1915 Çanakkale Strait, Istanbul Airport etc.). Besides, impressive advancements in technology, especially in military field (advanced UAV’s), and automative sector (first domestically produced electric car TOGG) has persisted since the failed coup attempt. As the defence industry is an inevitable necessity for major countries, Türkiye has emerged as a global frontrunner, supported by a robust R&D budget approaching $3bn, over 80% domestic production capacity, and a project portfolio valued at more than $100bn. While maintaining its engagement with traditional allies such as Nato and the European Union, Türkiye reinforced its proactive and multidimensional approach in regional and global diplomacy. As one of the prominent members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Developing Eight (D-8), the Organisation of Turkic States, Asia Cooperation Dialogue and MIKTA, Türkiye has brought additional efficiency and dynamism to all institutions during its Term Presidencies. Türkiye’s foreign policy, indeed, remains firmly rooted in a commitment to regional stability, multilateral engagement, and proactive peacebuilding. We uphold dialogue over division, prioritise partnerships rather than polarization, and advocate for diplomacy as the principal means of resolving disputes. Through deepening and widening its comprehensive policies, Türkiye has spawned the 3rd largest diplomatic network globally with 264 missions. Türkiye has a leading role in conflict prevention, peaceful resolution of conflicts and mediation. Under President Erdogan’s leadership, Türkiye has solidified its role as a mediator in global diplomacy, facilitating key peace talks and leading efforts to resolve regional and global crises. Türkiye has also adopted a value-based foreign policy that places human dignity at its core as it ranks first among the countries that provide the most aid in terms of its GDP. Türkiye has remained committed to its ethical principles on just causes, foremost among them the Palestinian issue, and has consistently voiced its rejection of double standards in addressing the rights of peoples. While commemorating tenth year of July 15, Qatar’s principled stance and solidarity with Türkiye should be remembered. In the immediate aftermath of the coup attempt, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani extended the first message of solidarity. HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani was among the first foreign officials to visit Türkiye in the aftermath of this night. Qatar’s firm stance, its unequivocal support for Türkiye’s elected government, and its deep empathy with the Turkish people have not been forgotten. And this brotherly gesture not only affirmed our mutual trust and solidarity but also further reinforced our already resolute ties and made the foundation even stronger that our strategic co-operation is based on. Indeed, President Erdoğan personally stated that any violations against brotherly country Qatar, in the wake of Iran – US/Israeli war, are inadmissible. He stressed that Türkiye always stands by Qatar in its difficult times. The bonds between two countries are deeply rooted in a shared vision for a more stable, prosperous, and peaceful region. We collaborate with Qatar to promote peace, conflict resolution, and humanitarian assistance from Gaza to the Horn of Africa and elsewhere possible. Besides having a shared vision for a better future, Türkiye and Qatar hold a shared destiny which was melded by the blood of our martyrs in the tragic accident of a helicopter crash that happened in March 2026. On this solemn occasion, we cannot fail to remember His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, a steadfast supporter and sincere friend of Türkiye, who played a pivotal role in elevating Turkish-Qatari relations to the unprecedented level they enjoy today. Through his visionary leadership, the enduring bonds of fraternity between our two nations were further strengthened, paving the way for a strategic partnership rooted in mutual trust, genuine respect, and a shared commitment to justice and common values. May Allah have mercy upon him. As we commemorate the 10th anniversary of July 15 and celebrate Democracy and National Unity Day, we pay tribute to the martyrs and veterans who sacrificed their lives and well-being to defend our nation. We also express our heartfelt appreciation for those who stood by us.
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