site.btaAnadolu Agency Celebrates 105th Anniversary

Anadolu Agency, Turkiye's national news agency, celebrates its 105th anniversary. In a message to Anadolu Agency President and CEO Serdar Karagoz, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Sunday said the news agency had become "a source of pride for journalism in both Turkiye and the world".

"Since the day it was founded, Anadolu has never strayed from its commitment to impartial and trustworthy journalism," Erdogan said. He noted Anadolu's ability to adapt to new technologies and reach a global audience with rich content and comprehensive coverage.

"Anadolu, one of Turkiye's most respected institutions, continues to expand its influence by effectively using the opportunities offered by digitalization and modern technology," the Turkish President said.

Erdogan also acknowledged the contribution of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to the founding of Anadolu Agency and wished the institution and all its employees success in their work.

Fahrettin Altun, the Presidency's Head of Communications, emphasized the role of Anadolu in responsibly conveying accurate information to the public at a time when disinformation has reached its peak, and the truth is obscured by manipulation. He said: "Anadolu Agency still serves as the voice of the oppressed in addition to communicating the true agenda of our country."

Anadolu Agency was established on April 6, 1920, by the instruction of the founder of the republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, during the Turkish War of Independence. Its aim was to keep the nation alert against provocations that could threaten national unity, and inform the public about the decisions that would lead to a successful conclusion of the struggle for independence.

Founded under very difficult conditions, the agency broadcast its first news bulletin on April 12, 1920, emphasizing the need to establish a network for the distribution of its bulletins and for its regular operation. Any omissions or negligence in delivering the bulletins were considered a "crime against the homeland."

Thanks to its global correspondent network, Anadolu Agency offers media services and products to its subscribers 24/7. The news agency operates 84 correspondent bureaux in all 81 provinces in Turkiye and 38 abroad.

With the vision of "Reporting the Changing World," Anadolu Agency cooperates with 49 news agencies around the world, including the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA).