Nation to mark 100th year of parliament

Turkey will mark the 100th anniversary of the foundation of its parliament through day-long events across the country, following social distancing rules due to the coronavirus, in an important milestone as the nation is poised to celebrate the centennial of the foundation of the Republic of Turkey in 2023.

The celebrations will also focus on children as April 23 is celebrated as the National Sovereignty and Children's Day.

"Up until today, we, as a nation, celebrated the parliament's foundation with great enthusiasm and excitement. Nevertheless, this year, our hearts are broken. We are sad that we cannot [celebrate April 23] in [city] squares, in scope of measures taken against the COVID-19 pandemic," Parliament Speaker Mustafa Şentop said in a written statement on April 22.

"This year, we will celebrate the National Sovereignty and Children's Day in our homes. Hopefully, as of next year, we will continue our celebrations with more enthusiasm and excitement. We will strongly express the will and belief of the Turkish nation to live freely and independently till forever," Şentop said.

Official ceremonies will be held in the current parliament, the first parliament building, and Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic. Lawmakers will gather at the Parliament at a special session where the party leaders are expected to address the General Assembly.

Ahead of the special session of parliament, Şentop, top government officials and politicians will attend a ceremony held at Anıtkabir. The special session will begin with Şentop's inaugural speech.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will not attend the gatherings due to the COVID-19 outbreak. But in line with a call by the parliament...