TURKISH RESOLVE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 August 1941, Page 6

TURKISH RESOLVE

DEFENCE OF INDEPENDENCE

PRAISED BY MR EDEN.

FACTORS OF GOOD PROMISE

FOR FUTURE

(British Official Wireless.) (Received This Dav. 10.30 a.m.) RUGBY, August 20. Turkey’s expressed determination to preserve her independence against any aggressor was stressed by Mr Anthony Eden, the Foreign Secretary, in a broadcast talk on

the opening of the 1941 Ismir Fair. He said: “It is with the greatest pleasure that I speak to Turkey today, to wish success to the Ismir Fair. The organisation of such a fair in war time presents a great difficulty and the fact of the fair being held and that there is a British pavilion is proof of the confidence in the future which Turkey and Britain share. Five months ago it was my privilege 'to visit you in Turkey, and while in Ankara, to meet and hold frank and most friendly discussions with President Inonu and your other leading statesmen and soldiers. I then became vividly aware of the common faith of our two countries and their determination to build together for a better future. In the few months that have elapsed, many great events have occurred, but one factor remains constant and that is Turkey’s firm determination to preserve, against any aggressor. the greatest treasure any nation possesses — her independence. Steadfast courage is a traditional quality of the Turkish people and it is by reason of that courage that Turkey plays and will continue to play so important a part in the events of the Near and Middle East. The Ismir Fair is a symbol of things to come. The economic contacts you now seek to preserve will be of infinite value when peace is restored. I congratulate the Turkish Government and people on this day and wish them all success and happiness, now and in the years that lie ahead.”