Gul, Erdogan release messages marking Nevruz

In a message marking Nevruz, an ancient celebration of the arrival of spring, President Abdullah Gul said yesterday, "Nevruz is a symbol of the awakening of nature, hopeful beginnings, and fertility. It is celebrated not only in Turkey, but across a vast region from Asia to the Balkans, from the Middle East to Anatolia, with great enthusiasm. It constitutes a powerful cultural tie among peoples of this region. Nevruz is a festival reminding us of the importance of values such as peace, brotherhood, and love. Thus, we should celebrate it peacefully. Our nation is aware of the value of living together in peace and tranquility. Differences and diversities are our greatest assets. Regardless of their ethnic background, religious belief, language or political creed, everyone in Turkey is inseparable and equal citizens of this country." Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan also released a message saying: "We will celebrate this meaningful day altogether, hand in hand. We will embrace each other knowing that with all our differences, we are the basic elements of this land." Erdogan added that Nevruz, a festival celebrated for centuries across a wide region from Central Asia to Europe, symbolizes rebirth and renewal. "We are members of a culture and faith which describe the earth as 'Mother Earth' and express that we were created from the earth and shall one day return to it," he said. "Therefore, the rebirth of the earth represents the renewal of life and humanity for us. Nevruz reminds us all that we are brothers and come from the same roots and spirit."