Queen Elizabeth II Lays Wreath at Anitkabir

Queen Elizabeth II’s last visit to Turkey was in October 1971. Returning thirty-six years later, she paid her respects to Mustafa Kemel Atatürk, founder and first president of the Turkish Republic, by attending a wreath-laying ceremony at Anitkabir yesterday. After the ceremony, she wrote in the guest book the following:

“It is an honour to pay my respects to Mustafa Kemel Atatürk, a much valued friend of the United Kingdom and one of the great figures of modern history.”

Elizabeth R

The queen paid tribute to the Turkish Republic founder again in her state banquet speech as she toasted President Abdullah Gul last night in Ankara and said: "Thank you for your kind words and the generous welcome we have received today. Prince Philip and I are delighted to be back in Turkey more than 36 years after our last visit of which we have many happy memories. Here in 1971, I remarked on the tremendous achievement of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in guiding this country of rich and ancient traditions along a course towards a modern, enlightened and democratic state. One could hardly have imagined then the further strides that Turkey would take to become today's confident and dynamic democracy. In this new century, we can celebrate the links between our two countries as being stronger than ever."

"The geography of this nation has, over time, not only determined much of the history of its own people but also had a powerful impact upon the wider world. Beyond being home to some of the earliest human settlements and the classical civilisation of Ancient Troy, this country occupies a key place in both Islam and Christianity."

"At its height, the Ottoman Empire, with its capital in Istanbul, stretched from the gates of Vienna to North Africa. The strategic location of this country, straddling two continents, drew many into some of the bloodiest battles of the First World War, including those commemorated recently on the Gallipoli peninsula. From the ruins of that war, not only did Atatürk become the father of this modern nation, but he also famously declared that those who had come from overseas and lost their lives in this land had become Turkey's sons as well. Those sentiments echo to this day in a relationship which the United Kingdom greatly prizes."

"For us, Turkey is as important now as it has ever been. Within this country, the prospect of accession to the European Union has already helped to inspire changes that are improving the lives of its citizens. Abroad, Turkey is uniquely positioned as a bridge between East and West at a crucial time for the European Union and the world in general."

Besides visiting Ankara, Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh will attend events in the the cities of Bursa and Istanbul. They will stay in Turkey until May 16th.

Queen Elizabeth II's entire speech from the state banquet in Ankara, Turkey can be read here.

Photos: Press Association