That the House:

(1)   notes:

(a)   the Commonwealth of Australia and the Republic of Turkey have established a unique relationship and bond based upon the sacrifices of young men from both nations and that this uniqueness at the core of deep rooted relations between the two countries gained even more momentum by the unforgettable reconciliatory remarks of the Founder of the Modern Turkish Republic Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to the mothers of fallen Anzacs: “…You, the mothers, who sent their sons from far away countries wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom and are in peace. After having lost their lives on this land they have become our sons as well”; and

(b)   that the Turkish nation is now a friendly power and members of the Turkish community have now successfully integrated into Australian society;

(2)   celebrates and commends the achievements and contributions of the Turkish community here in the Commonwealth of Australia in the 42 years since their arrival;

(3)   acknowledges the unique relationship that exists between Australia and Turkey, a bond highlighted by both nations’ commitment to the rights and liberties of our citizens and the pursuit of a just world, highlighted by the statement of Ataturk “Peace at Home, Peace in the World”;

(4)   commends the Republic of Turkey’s commitment to the shared values of democracy, the rule of law and secularism; and

(5)   on the 42nd anniversary of the Formal Agreement between the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia and the Government of the Republic of Turkey concerning the Residence and Employment of Turkish Citizens in Australia, pledges our friendship, commitment and enduring support to the people of Turkey as we celebrate this important occasion together.