Letter from Özgür Özel to the Belgian minister who knelt at Anıtkabir

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken visited Anıtkabir on July 25 with his accompanying delegation. During the visit, Francken knelt before Atatürk's mausoleum to lay a wreath and subsequently observed a moment of silence.

In a letter addressed to Francken, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel stated that this gesture carries a profound symbolic meaning of respect for Turkey's ideal of being a modern, secular, and democratic country. Özel expressed that Francken's visit and his subsequent statements emphasized the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding in international relations.

In his letter, Özel wrote: "Dear Minister Francken, I would like to express my sincere gratitude on behalf of our citizens and my party for the respectful and meaningful expression of appreciation you showed toward Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic and our party, during your visit to Anıtkabir.

In this period when we are striving to realize the ideal of a modern, secular, and fully democratic Turkey, this respect you have shown for Atatürk's vision carries a profound symbolic meaning.

Upholding the legacy of a statesman who defended universal values such as freedom, equality, and rationalism is not only an indicator of historical awareness; it is also a powerful affirmation of the common principles that unite democratic societies across borders."

Özel continued his letter as follows:

"The thoughtful statements you made following your visit also clearly demonstrated your sincerity and your statesmanlike stance. Such behaviors, which transcend cultural and political differences, form the foundation of true dialogue and mutual understanding in international relations.

On behalf of millions of citizens committed to the founding values of our Republic, I thank you once again; I look forward to meeting you in person and exchanging ideas with you as soon as possible. With my respect and appreciation."