Stories from Istanbul · Turkey

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke at an OECD summit in Istanbul, focusing on Turkey's economic transformation. He highlighted the impact of technological advancements on production methods and job markets. Erdoğan noted the rise of fully automated factories, referred to as 'dark factories,' and the emergence of new job opportunities alongside the transformation of existing professions. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attended the OECD 2026 Skills Summit in Istanbul, highlighting the transformation of professions due to technological advancements. He noted that established norms in employment are being disrupted. Erdoğan said that managing and directing these changes correctly is within Turkey's control. He stated that it is not possible to prevent change, but decision-makers must correctly interpret and direct it.

The novel 'Gazanfer Paşa'nın Bir İkincisi' by Selim Nüsret Gerçek has been adapted by Hakan Müstürcü and Hasan Çelik for Türkiye İş Bankası Kültür Yayınları. Gerçek, who lived from 1891 to 1945, was the brother of writer Abdülhak Şinasi Hisar and held a unique place in Turkish literature. He completed his primary education at Gazi Osman Paşa ibtidai mektebi in Rumeli Hisarı and graduated from Galatasaray mekteb-i Sultanisi's Turkish department, later earning a degree in literature from the University of Geneva.

The Super Lotto jackpot has surpassed 600 million lira. Players can purchase tickets at the nearest authorized retailer or online through Milli Piyango. The advertisement also highlights a specific baby food product, Aliyanz, which offers benefits such as gram gold for infants up to one year old and an additional 5% contribution on every birthday until age 18. This record prize has increased customer traffic at retailers. This figure has increased public interest, leading to crowds at lottery retailers, particularly in Istanbul's Bostancı district. The intensity of these crowds escalates on drawing days. Citizens are flocking to vendors to buy lottery tickets, with demand increasing. Birth dates, special days, and personally numbers are being chosen. Dreams of winning the 942 million lira jackpot are being considered.

By 2030, global population growth will mean people will stay in the workforce longer than in the past. This trend is compounded by increasing individualism, the dissolution of traditional family structures, and a growing acceptance of self-reliance. Haberturk Radyo discussed issues that have effects beyond the problem between countries. The station's discussion touched upon the lifting of a blockade, suggesting potential for further talks. Haberturk Radyo indicated that Günay Günç would perform best for the team on that day.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to speak at the OISD Skills Summit at the Halic Congress Center. He will deliver statements on the economy and taxation. The summit is attended by representatives of international organizations. The summit is being held at the Halil Congre Center in Istanbul. Erdogan stated that hosting such an summit is a source of pride for him, his country, and his nation. He welcomed all guests from both within Turkey and abroad. The summit focused on vocational training and future workforce development. He addressed attendees, highlighting Turkey's commitment to skills enhancement. The summit aims to strengthen inter-country cooperation, share best practices, and enhance strategies for skills policies. The event focused on labor and social security topics. Markets are currently monitoring US-Iran uncertainties alongside the summit.

Electric vehicle sales in Turkey are increasing daily but at a slower pace than anticipated. Gasoline-powered vehicles remain the top choice for car buyers. One in three individuals surveyed prefers a gasoline vehicle as their first choice, with gasoline vehicles accounting for twenty-one percent. China leads the global EV market and showcases AI technology. This slowdown is attributed to factors such as lower battery capacity, slower charging speeds, and a depreciation in the second-hand market for older electric vehicles. Despite these challenges, reasons for purchasing electric cars remain, with 40% of respondents citing fuel savings as the primary motivation, followed by lower maintenance costs (20%) and technological innovation (17%).

Istanbul jewelers are accused of undermining ethical values, trust, and guild culture in the jewelry trade. Some are resorting to dishonest methods to find buyers and profit amidst rising prices. The Istanbul Jewelers Chamber President, Mustafa Atayek, stated that they will work to prevent these practices. The Istanbul Jewelers Chamber has issued a guarantee label for its members. The Istanbul Jewelers Chamber is warning against fraudulent social media advertisements offering cheap gold. Scammers are reportedly using fluctuating gold prices to lure victims into sharing identity photos or IBAN information. The chamber advises checking the legitimacy of companies before making payments to avoid identity theft. Fraudsters may also be tampering with the weight of the gold being sold.

The Turkish Social Security Institution has implemented new regulations for procuring medicines from abroad. This new system aims to increase transparency and competition, leading to more effective use of public funds through negotiated, lower-cost purchases. The changes are expected to enhance transparency and competition in the procurement process. Interested parties can submit offers, and the contract will be awarded to the most economically advantageous bid. The results must be reported to the Public Procurement Authority within 15 days. Turkey is implementing regulations for social media access for children under 15. This measure aims to increase parental mediation and control over children's online activities. Children under 15 will not be able to access social media without age verification.

A Greek music album encountered initial difficulties with public acceptance.

Restoration efforts in Turkey are multi-layered, including original materials and structural safety. Lead plating in certain areas has been removed and renewed. These efforts are part of comprehensive restoration work.