DUSHANBE, October 29, 2009, Asia-Plus  -- President Emomali Rahmon today extended congratulations to his Turkish counterpart, President Abdullah Gul, on occasion of Republic Day in Turkey, according to presidential press service.

In his message of congratulations, Rahmon, in particular, highly appraised the level of partnership and bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and Turkey Tajik-Turkish partnership and stated readiness of Tajikistan for further expansion of bilateral cooperation with Turkey based on the principles of equality.

“I believe strengthening of partnership and further intensification of our contacts will serve the cause of peace, security and fruitful cooperation in the region as a whole,” Tajik leader noted. 

On October 29, 1923, the Turkish constitution was amended and Turkey became a republic.  This formally declared the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire.  Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı) is celebrated throughout Turkey every year.  Commemorative events usually begin in the afternoon on the previous day.  It is a special day for them so, governments and schools close for a day.