President Erdogan highlights achievements in Aksaray rally
Erdogan addresses an election rally in Aksaray, Türkiye, highlighting achievements and promising continued progress, emphasizing the country's resolve amid regional tensions
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke at an election rally in Aksaray province, addressing a crowd of enthusiastic supporters ahead of the upcoming local elections. The president expressed confidence in a resounding victory on Sunday, aiming to set a new record in Aksaray.
"We have always kept our promises, and we will continue to do so," Erdogan assured the crowd, highlighting the government's round-the-clock efforts that have yielded positive results. He mentioned achievements in diplomacy, economic growth, the defense industry, and record-high exports.
Despite the challenges posed by the conflict in the region, Erdogan emphasized the government's efforts to mitigate the negative effects of tensions and the struggle against rising living costs. He announced steps to boost workers' and retirees' purchasing power, including a 50% increase in salaries at the beginning of the year and a similar rise in retirement bonuses.
"In an environment of high inflation, whatever we offer seems to disappear like a bottomless pit," Erdogan remarked, pledging to bring inflation under control for a more stable economy.
Reflecting on the massive turnout of 35,000 people at the Aksaray rally, Erdogan called for patience as the country navigates through challenges. He warned against external forces attempting to undermine Türkiye's strength and potential, urging unity and resilience.
"We have stood firm against FETO and terrorist organizations' attacks," Erdogan declared, highlighting the country's growth and its ambitious goal of becoming one of the world's top 10 economies.
'National will festival on March 31 before Ramadan'
The president also stressed the importance of the upcoming elections, not only for selecting local officials but also for supporting the government's broader agenda.
"Before March 31, we will celebrate the national will festival in these Sunday elections," Erdogan exclaimed, extending early wishes for the upcoming holy nights and holidays.
Erdogan underscored the government's commitment to a policy of "deeds and services," citing ongoing efforts to address shortcomings in education, health care, transportation, and energy sectors.
"We are competing with the world, leading in many areas, but we are not yet where we want to be," Erdogan acknowledged.
Touching on the regional turmoil, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the tragedy faced by the people of Gaza at the hands of Israel, Erdogan called attention to the escalating tensions from the Balkans to the Caucasus.
"We saw that big, powerful countries and international organizations have not proven useful in these conflicts," he added.
"We do not want to be drawn into this picture with the countless attacks we have faced in the last 10 years," Erdogan emphasized, signaling a need to raise the banner of struggle even higher.
The president outlined plans to increase employment, strengthen the economy and military, and improve support for youth and families.
TL 88B investment made in Aksaray
Turning to the developments in Aksaray over the past 21 years, Erdogan highlighted significant investments totaling around TL 88 billion ($2.73 billion). These include the construction of 2,098 new classrooms, the establishment of a Science and Youth Center, the opening of Aksaray University, a 3,000-capacity indoor sports hall, and 28 sports facilities.
In terms of social support, the government provided approximately TL 3.5 billion to those in need, completed an 815-bed central state hospital, and established 21 health facilities totaling 1,055 beds.
The president also mentioned the completion of 5,804 housing units for eligible recipients, with 1,731 units currently under construction. Seven national parks have been completed, and work on two others is ongoing.
"We have increased the length of divided roads from 17 kilometers (10.57 miles) to 311 kilometers, and our intercity road projects are ongoing," Erdoğan stated, emphasizing the government's commitment to infrastructure development.
Erdogan also highlighted achievements in the agricultural sector, with 36,000 hectares of agricultural land now irrigated and TL 11 billion in agricultural grants provided to farmers.
The president concluded his address by introducing the candidates for district mayor positions, urging the crowd to support their candidacy in the upcoming elections.
The rally in Aksaray province marked a spirited gathering, showcasing the government's achievements and future plans amid the backdrop of the local elections.
Source: Newsroom
