The Honorable Michael P. Peters, Mayor
WHEREAS, On this date of October 29, 1923, the Turkish Nation, lead by MUSTAFA KEMAL ATATURK, transformed the dynastic Ottoman Empire into the Republic of Turkey, and began the dynamic program of economic growth, social and cultural modernization; and
WHEREAS, Today seventy five tears later the Turkish Republic continues to rest upon the bedrock of four unshakable commitments, democracy, soverignty of the people, national defense and security through good neighborly relations, and a strong liberal economy; and
WHEREAS, The ideas of MUSTAFA KEMAL ATATURK are today the main source of unity and national aspirations which inspire a secular, pluralistic, democratic state based on western ideals; and
WHEREAS, The United States has the foremost traditions of democracy, having served as a beacon of light for world freedom; and
WHEREAS, Turkey and its citizens now carry a bright torch to light the path for other democratic and freedom seeking people, having fought with pride to free their country from foreign occupations and divisions; and
WHEREAS, Turkish American friendship has grown as a result of our mutual ideals and the pragmatic stances we have taken together in Korea and NATO; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT
RESOLVED, THATJ. Michael P. Peters, Mayor of the city of Hartford, do hereby proclaim October 29, 1998 as
and urge all of our citizens to recognize this special opportunity to expand our partnership with Turkey in a world where "PEACE IS BREAKING OUT ALL OVER"
Michale P. Peters
Dated this 29th day of October 1998