The president has been hosting families of slain soldiers at an annual iftar dinner during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan since he was elected president in 2007. This year, some 300 family members gathered at the palace to break their fast. Gül's wife, Hayrünnisa Gül, was also in attendance at the dinner.
“You are our most precious guests,” Gül said during his address to the invitees and added that he feels honored to be having the same iftar dinner with them.
He further stated that he hopes the holy month of Ramadan will bring peace, fraternity and an end to terrorism and violence in this country.
“Do not hesitate to contact us whenever you need help. You have sacrificed your sons for this country and your pain will never be ignored. No one should have any doubts about that,” Gül further said.