Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Grushko said at an October 29 Republic Day program hosted by Türkiye's Embassy in Moscow that trade and economic relations between the two countries had maintained their stability despite the turbulent international environment and illegal sanctions. Grushko said the relations had the potential to grow further.
The program was held at one of Moscow's leading performance venues and hosted by Türkiye's Ambassador to Moscow, Tanju Bilgiç. Turkish and Russian guests attended the event alongside Grushko.
The Anadolu Fire Dance Troupe performed during the evening. Led by general artistic director Mustafa Erdoğan, the troupe presented folk dances collected from different regions of Türkiye, accompanied by music and rhythm. The performance, which brought together Anatolia's cultural heritage and folkloric motifs, was well received by the audience, and the program concluded with a reception.
Bilgiç discusses the Republic's will for independence
In his speech, Tanju Bilgiç addressed the significance of October 29, 1923. Bilgiç said the Republic was the strongest expression of the nation's determination and sacrifice in pursuit of freedom and independence, as well as its belief in a shared future.
Bilgiç also addressed the historical dimension of Türkiye-Russia relations, saying Soviet Russia had supported the establishment of the Republic of Türkiye. He said this support contributed to the success of the Turkish War of Independence.
Bilgiç recalled that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk appointed Western Front Commander Ali Fuat Cebesoy as ambassador to Moscow on November 22, 1920, following the establishment of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. He said diplomatic relations between the government of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye and Soviet Russia were thus established approximately three years before the proclamation of the Republic.
Bilgiç said footage filmed by Russian journalists visiting Ankara for the 10th anniversary of the Republic, while Atatürk was reading his 10th Year Address, has survived to the present day. He said Türkiye-Russia relations had faced various challenges throughout history but had reached their highest level today.
Bilgiç said the friendship between President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Russian President Vladimir Putin had contributed to the strength of ties between the two countries. He said Türkiye had opened its doors to Russian artists and athletes while sanctions were being imposed on them in various places. He cited footballer Aleksey Batrakov, who had a successful season in Türkiye, as an example of sporting relations.
Grushko recalls the 105th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship and Fraternity
Grushko said the 105th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Fraternity between Soviet Russia and the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye was being commemorated. He said the two countries' longstanding relations brought a responsibility to preserve and develop their shared legacy.
