Turkish Embassy in Brussels commemorates July 15 – Democracy and National Unity Day

Brussels, July 15 – The Turkish Embassy in Brussels hosted a solemn ceremony to mark the ninth anniversary of the failed coup attempt in Türkiye on July 15, 2016 and the Democracy and National Unity Day. The event, organized under the patronage of Özgür Çakar, Chargé d’Affaires and First Counsellor, began with a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs, followed by a short documentary depicting the events of that night. Ali Bayır, religious official of Brussels Fatih Mosque, led a prayer for the victims and all the martyrs since the Independance war.

The ceremony brought together high-level Turkish officials, including Ambassador Faruk Kaymakcı (Permanent Representative to the EU), Ambassador Basat Öztürk (Permanent Representative to NATO), Brussels Consul General Onur Sevim, Antwerp Consul General İsmail Sefa Yüceer, and Lieutenant General Kemal Turan, Head of the Turkish Military Delegation to NATO, alongside numerous guests and members of the Turkish community.

In his keynote speech, Mr. Çakar emphasized the significance of the day:

“Today, on the ninth anniversary of the 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day, we gather to once again affirm our nation’s unwavering commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and national sovereignty.”

He recalled the events of the coup night:

“The bloody coup attempt, orchestrated by the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETÖ), targeted our democracy and constitutional order. Thanks to the resolute stance of our people, it was thwarted.”

Çakar highlighted the role of national unity and leadership:

“The architects of this treacherous assault failed due to the heroic resistance of our citizens and the determined leadership of our President. Our people stood firm, risking their lives to protect democracy.”

He also warned of the ongoing threat posed by FETÖ:

“Though the coup attempt was defeated, the FETÖ network continues its activities abroad under various disguises. This dark organization, which exploits universal values for its own gain, poses a serious national security threat not only to Türkiye but to all societies where it operates.”

Çakar reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to fighting FETÖ:

“The struggle against FETÖ is a cornerstone of our national security. The death of its leader, Fethullah Gülen, will not lead us to complacency. Our fight will continue relentlessly, both at home and abroad, until this criminal network is fully dismantled.”

He called for international solidarity:

“In this context, we expect greater cooperation and solidarity from all friendly nations, including Belgium, in our legitimate fight against FETÖ and other terrorist organizations.”

Finally, he praised the Turkish community in Belgium:

“Our citizens in Belgium, through their contributions to social, economic, cultural, and political life, have earned a distinguished place in society. Their continued support and sensitivity strengthen Türkiye’s rightful struggle.”

Mr. Çakar concluded with a heartfelt message:

“15 July is not only the day a coup was prevented—it is the triumph of national will, the power of the people, and the victory of democracy. I thank you all for your presence, your solidarity, and your love for our homeland. We honor the memory of our martyrs with deep respect.”

The ceremony also marked the first public appearance of Türkiye’s newly appointed Ambassador to Belgium, Görkem Barış Tantekin, who addressed the audience with a warm greeting:

“I arrived in Belgium only recently, having previously served as Ambassador in Lithuania. Although I have not yet formally presented my credentials, I am honored to be here today among you.”

Reflecting on the events of 15 July 2016, he shared a personal memory:

“That night, I was in Ankara, working at the Ministry. I witnessed firsthand the courage and unity of our people as they stood up for democracy and the future of our nation.”

Ambassador Barış Tantekin reaffirmed Türkiye’s determination:

“Our fight against the FETÖ terrorist organization will continue with determination. We will not rest until this dark network is completely dismantled.”

He also expressed his eagerness to engage with the Turkish community in Belgium:

“This embassy is your home. I look forward to meeting with our citizens, civil society organizations, students, and businesspeople in the coming days. My door will always be open.”

He concluded with a message of unity:

“15 July is not just the day a coup was prevented—it is a symbol of national will and democratic victory. I thank you all for being here today and look forward to working closely with you in the future.”