A statement from the ministry, published in the Turkish newspaper “Sosyal,” stated that Güler received the Commander of the Naval Forces, Admiral Erküment Tatlıoğlu, and his accompanying staff on the occasion of the 487th anniversary of the Preveza naval victory and Naval Forces Day.
Güler emphasized that Turkey has proven its naval dominance throughout history with its courage and determination, recalling that Çaka Bey was the pioneer of the Turkish Navy with his naval activities.
Güler commented, “The Turkish Navy, whose foundations were laid in this manner, has succeeded in becoming the strongest naval power in the world over the centuries.”
Güler stated that Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha and his men left their mark on world naval history with the victory they achieved at Preveza on September 27, 1538, thus marking the beginning of the Mediterranean becoming a Turkish lake after the Black Sea.
Güler emphasized that they are proud to build a modern navy inspired by great sailors and strengthened by the resources provided by the local and national defense industry. He noted the following:
“Thanks to our national ships, submarines, and advanced technologies, we constitute an effective, deterrent, and respected naval force in the world’s seas.
Nearly a century ago, we paid for ships but never received them. There were times when we faced various obstacles and difficulties. We have never forgotten those difficult days. We have continued to work tirelessly.”
