Stories from Ankara · Turkey

Conditions for opening traditional and complementary medicine application units have been eased in private hospitals with sufficient capacity. Under this framework, G-TAT services previously limited to dental hospitals, oral health centers, and polyclinics can now be offered in dental examination offices. These services include acupuncture, apitherapy, phytotherapy, hypnosis, and leech therapy. The announcement details the expansion of healthcare services within these specific medical practices. The source noted that the regulation defines which health institutions are authorized to provide these specific services. These services, previously restricted to specific rooms, can now be offered in all treatment rooms and inpatient services. The regulation aims to utilize the body's self-healing capacity. These services may be offered in outpatient clinics and inpatient wards.

The Republican People's Party (CHP) decided to launch a field campaign during a party assembly meeting led by Chairman Özgür Özel. Party spokesperson Zeynel Emre announced the campaign will begin on May 4. The initiative aims to meet with the public to discuss national realities. The party also established a roadmap for municipalities to respond to local operations. The campaign is scheduled to cover various regions to engage directly with citizens.

The General Directorate stated that no public hospitals providing health services are being sold. The General Directorate of Health Investments issued a statement clarifying that no active hospitals or currently used lands are being privatized. The ministry addressed rumors circulating on virtual media regarding the sale of healthcare facilities.

An investigation has been launched into District Governor Muharrem Eligül following social media posts regarding his role. A civil inspector has been appointed to oversee the inquiry. The investigation follows an incident during April 23 celebrations in Ankara where the district governor reportedly shared posts in both Turkish and Arabic. The outcome of the investigation is expected to be determined in the coming process. Özgür Özel spoke during a party group meeting regarding an investigation into the Ayaş District Governor. The investigation follows social media posts directed at Ankara MP Umut Akduan. Özel expressed gratitude to the Ankara Governor and the Minister of Interior for initiating the probe. He stated he has nothing further to say to the officials after they performed their duties.

MHP leader Devlet Bahceli reacted to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's comments regarding European autonomy from Russian, Turkish, or Chinese influence. Bahceli stated that Turkey has the power to respond to those attempting to marginalize it. He warned that if Europe continues to view Turkey as a secondary element to be called upon only when needed, it will face consequences. MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli responded sharply to comments made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen regarding European influence. Bahçeli stated that the language used by the Commission President is problematic and noted that Brussels cannot dictate terms to Turkey. He characterized the assessment as an attempt to show Turkey its place. AK Party spokesperson Ömer Çelik criticized French President Emmanuel Macron regarding statements made in Greece.

Aselsan has developed a new physical interception system designed to counter mini and micro drones on the battlefield. The system is integrated onto armored vehicles and utilizes the Korkut system alongside particle-effect ammunition. This technology provides a cost-effective alternative for defending against high-density threats such as drone swarms. Aselsan has developed a counter-drone system capable of rapid reaction against threats like swarm UAV attacks. The system utilizes Korkut firing control algorithms and automatic target positioning to engage targets. It can be integrated into various platforms ranging from wheeled vehicles to fixed facilities. The system uses Atom 25 ammunition, which is programmed to detonate at a specific time in front of the target rather than requiring a direct hit.

AK Party spokesperson Ömer Çelik described a recent memorandum as a turning point in Turkish democratic history. Çelik stated that the Prime Ministry is seeking those responsible for issuing the memorandum. He noted that individuals involved attempted to avoid communication for 15 to 16 hours following the event. AK Party Deputy Chairman Efkan Hala stated that the strong will demonstrated during past political challenges underlies current successes. Deputy Chairman Faruk Hacer also issued a message regarding a firm stance against those seeking to undermine national sovereignty. Efforts are reportedly underway to accelerate judicial processes, according to the source.

Former Ankara Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Melih Gökçek denied allegations that he owns villas in Akgurt. Gökçek responded to claims made by CHP Chairman Özgür Özel regarding property ownership. He stated that he does not own any villas in any location. Gökçek also mentioned that he invited Mansur Yavaş to speak with him. Speaking on a program presented by Hakan, Gökçek challenged accusers to provide proof, including the location, photographs, and title deeds of the properties. He stated that an honorable person would present such evidence rather than attempting to disgrace him. Melih Gökçek stated that he has served for 23 years and denied allegations regarding property ownership. He claimed that Mansur Yavaş has undergone 500 investigations that were subsequently dismissed in court. Gökçek further alleged that Yavaş is frequently in a state of distress.

Mine workers in an old city private sector mine began a protest in Ankara's Kurtuluş Park after months of unpaid wages. The source stated that a consensus was reached and salaries have now been paid. Workers at the Independent Maden İşçileri Sendikası and Doruk Madencilik company ended their protest following a meeting. Minister Bayraktar issued a warning that businesses failing to pay worker rights will face license revocations. Independent Mining Union President Gökay Çakır participated in the discussions. Former miners held demonstrations and hunger strikes in Ankara to protest against a private mining company. Protesters in Ankara are demanding changes to the current wage system, specifically regarding how pay increases are applied to public sector workers performing the same roles. The crowd includes union members, their families, and children.

The Turkish Ministry of Trade has granted foreign trade capital company status to 10 additional firms. This brings the total number of companies with this status to 103.