Gümülcine marks 106th anniversary of integration into Greece with official ceremonies
The commemorations began with a religious service led by Metropolitan Panteleimon Moutafis, followed by wreath-laying ceremonies at the Kılıç Monument in the city center.
The program continued with a formal parade featuring students, civil society groups, and military units. Schools from the Turkish Muslim minority in Western Thrace also participated, including students from the Celal Bayar Minority High School and Lyceum, alongside other local educational institutions.
The event was attended by regional and national officials, including representatives of the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace administration, members of parliament, municipal leaders, and diplomatic representatives. Türkiye’s Consul General in Gümülcine, Aykut Ünal, was also present among invited guests.
The Greek government was represented by Deputy Interior Minister Kostas Gkoulas, highlighting the official significance of the anniversary for the state.
The ceremonies featured traditional military and student parades, reflecting both the historical narrative of the region and its contemporary multicultural composition.