Ulvi Puğ: “Atatürk taught his nation to smile and enjoy life.”

Bornova Municipality hosted a special session of the Bornova City Talks series themed “Atatürk and the Republic” at the Uğur Mumcu Cultural Center. During the event, İzmir National Library Foundation President Av. Ulvi Puğ highlighted the significance of the Republic through inspiring examples from Atatürk’s life. The program also featured poetry and music performances that filled the hall with the spirit of the Republic.

Held as part of the 102nd anniversary celebrations of the Republic, the event attracted great interest from Bornovalı residents. Alongside the talk, a musical and poetry performance enriched the evening — Erdoğan Çördük contributed with his music, while Selma Nalbantoğlu, Kemal Kantar, Müjgan Eminoğlu, Uğur Gürekin, and Sabina Urfan performed poetry that reflected the values of the Republic.

“A nation that yearns for the Republic must understand its meaning”

In his speech, Av. Ulvi Puğ emphasized the importance of truly understanding the values of the Republic, saying:

“If you long for the Republic but still fail to grasp its meaning, you remain a community, not a nation. Atatürk was not only a founder of a state but also a leader who taught his people how to enjoy life, to smile, and to share joy with others.”

“The Republic should be felt in every aspect of life”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki stated that the Bornova City Talks series aims to promote the achievements of the Republic across all segments of society:

“Through these talks that bring together the values of the Republic, art, science, and free thought, we continue to keep the spirit of the Republic alive in Bornova.”