Türkiye communications chief marks 955th Manzikert anniversary

Presidential Communications Director Burhanettin Duran on Wednesday marked the 955th anniversary of the Battle of Manzikert, describing the 1071 Seljuk victory as the foundational moment that opened Anatolia to permanent Turkish settlement.

NSosyal tribute

Duran said in a statement posted to the Turkish social media platform NSosyal that the nation is advancing with determination toward its "Türkiye Century" goals. "I remember with mercy and gratitude Sultan Alp Arslan, who made these lands our eternal homeland, and all our heroes," he said, citing the Seljuk sultan who commanded the forces at Manzikert.

Historic victory

The Battle of Manzikert — fought on Aug. 26, 1071 — saw Sultan Alp Arslan defeat the Byzantine Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, a triumph that destroyed Byzantine military dominance in Anatolia and initiated centuries of Turkic migration and rule across the peninsula.

Anniversary message

Duran extended his blessings for the anniversary, stating, "May the 955th anniversary of the Battle of Manzikert be blessed." The communications director emphasized that modern Türkiye draws strength from this ancient history and deep-rooted state tradition as it pursues its strategic objectives.