Gul, Erdogan release a message on principle of secularism

President Abdullah Gul has released a message on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the inclusion of principle of secularism into Constitution. Gul reiterated that Article 2 of Turkish Constitution stipulates that Turkey is a "democratic, secular and social state governed by the rule of law," adding, "It is essential that the rights of everybody from all sections of society are protected, and thus secularism serves an important function in terms of social peace, and enables everybody to be involved in social life as equal individuals. In this respect, secularism should be considered not only as a principle of freedom, but also a principle of social reconciliation and peace. Therefore, at the 75th anniversary of the inclusion of principle of secularism into Constitution, everybody is assured that characteristics of our Republic have been strengthening our nation's will to live in harmony." Releasing a statement, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan also stressed the importance of harmonization between the interpretation of secularism and accumulation of civilization, saying, "When secularism is applied in line with a unifying, liberating and tolerant interpretation rather than in a divisive, oppressive and standardizing way, it has always strengthened democracy and accelerated economy, foreign policy and social life. In Turkey, different cultures, different religions and different sects have been living together in peace thanks to its great accumulation of civilization. Therefore an interpretation of secularism which is in harmony with our civilization, as well as our accumulation of civilization, will continue to serve as the guarantee of our walk towards the future in peace and harmony."