Stories from Turkey

Turkey has increased its public hospital capacity to over 271,000 beds through recent infrastructure upgrades. The expansion includes the modernization of 18,000 rooms to include private single and double occupancy bathrooms. This initiative aims to improve patient services and accommodate growing healthcare demands across the country.

A new environmental initiative is scanning 1,300 kilometers of coastline in the Marmara Sea to identify and protect surviving seagrass beds. The project aims to determine the distribution of these habitats to support marine life and sea farming efforts. Researchers are focusing on identifying specific species within these coastal zones to inform conservation strategies. Scientists plan to map similar seagrass areas across the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Future protections may include banning anchoring and net fishing in identified seagrass zones. The study was conducted with support from the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change's General Directorate of Protection of Natural Assets. The presence of sea grass is noted to be higher in northern regions near Black Sea water currents.

Turkish officials are exploring the possibility of hosting Formula 1 races to stimulate destination tourism. The initiative aims to leverage the sport's massive global following to increase visitor numbers in Istanbul. Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy noted that the Istanbul Park circuit previously hosted over 110,000 spectators in 2005.

Turkish authorities have seized a large cache of weapons components. Syrian internal security forces have conducted a specialized operation, seizing a arsenal of weapons.

The village of Başpınar in Çorum, Turkey, traditionally relies on agriculture and animal husbandry, but also boasts a rich tradition of kite-making. This art form has been passed down through four generations, with children actively participating in its continuation.

Turkey is commemorating the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings on April 25, 1915. Allied forces attempted to pass through the Dardanelles by sea but were met by Turkish forces upon landing in Gallipoli, with the 27th Regiment holding the line for several hours.

Turkish officials have commented on statements made by the European Commission President regarding Turkey's geopolitical positioning. They emphasized Turkey's role as a long-standing NATO ally and its significant contributions to the European economy, while also noting its strategic importance. Turkey's status as a NATO and EU member was discussed, with the source noting that Turkey is seen as a valuable country by its neighbors. The country has a strong leader, and energy prices have risen.

The largest social housing project in Turkish history has begun with lottery draws in Istanbul. The individuals were found guilty of defrauding companies attempting to secure tenders for earthquake housing projects. The defendants posed as public officials to facilitate the fraud. He said urban transformation as the primary solution for Istanbul's security and urban needs. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Turkey. The TOKI housing project in Istanbul features units designed at 80 square meters. One-plus-one units are designed at 55 square meters, while two-plus-one units will be 65 or 80 square meters. These units are being constructed by the Housing Development Administration of Turkey (TOKI). Reporters are currently showcasing sample apartments to provide details on the housing quality.

Turkish authorities are expanding tax advantages for institutions operating within the Istanbul Financial Center. The move aims to encourage global corporations to relocate their headquarters to the Istanbul Financial Center. The minister stated that 2026 is designated as a year for reform with comprehensive structural steps on the agenda. The goal is to establish Turkey as a regional finance and trade hub. Additionally, a radical step was taken to reduce corporate tax rates for exporters. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced new tax advantages last Friday. The corporate tax rate for exporters will be reduced from 20% to 9%. The measures aim to alleviate pressure on the labor market in the medium term. The standard corporate tax rate is 25%, but exporters will now benefit from a reduced rate of 14%.

During a match, Kayserispor player Görkem Sağlam experienced a cramp in the 86th minute, causing him to fall to the ground. Teammates provided immediate assistance on the field.