Urgent Updates from President Erdoğan
Title: President Erdoğan Emphasizes the Battle Against Addiction at Yeşilay’s 105th Anniversary
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently delivered a significant address during the 105th anniversary celebrations of Yeşilay, an organization dedicated to combating addiction in Turkey. The event, held over three days, aimed to highlight the importance of collective efforts in the fight against substance abuse.
In his speech, President Erdoğan reflected on the origins of Yeşilay, which was established on March 5, 1920, by Doctor Mazhar Osman and 19 friends. He acknowledged the organization’s extensive reach, with 120 branches and 105 consulting and rehabilitation centers operating across the nation, playing pivotal roles in civil society.
Erdoğan congratulated Yeşilay for its century-long commitment to promoting health and wellness, and offered gratitude to its members, employees, and volunteers. He emphasized the necessity of strong families in building resilient communities and warned against the destructive influence of addiction, which he described as a "great enemy of a healthy body."
Highlighting the seriousness of drug-related issues, Erdoğan revealed that Turkish security forces have conducted 48,490 operations against drug traffickers. He commended non-governmental organizations for their diligent efforts in this battle, urging families to take primary responsibility for safeguarding youth against addiction.
Addressing the challenges posed by the digital world, Erdoğan noted the alarming trend of increased internet usage among children, stating that children aged 6-10 are spending over an hour daily online, which complicates the fight against addiction. He called for families to be vigilant, underscoring the importance of collective action in resisting negative influences, including harmful ideologies that could affect future generations.
Erdoğan urged all political factions to unite against addiction, emphasizing that the issue transcends partisan differences. He expressed disappointment in the lack of a responsible approach from the opposition parties and criticized their encouragement of alcohol consumption, which he said undermines health initiatives.
He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting healthier alternatives, stating, "Our national drink is buttermilk," in contrast to the unhealthy drinking culture. Erdoğan declared that the opposition’s portrayal of alcohol as a societal norm must be challenged, condemning their conversion of social spaces into venues for alcohol consumption.
In conclusion, President Erdoğan’s address served as a rallying cry for individuals, families, and society as a whole to take a united stand against addiction, reinforcing the message that collaboration and vigilance are essential in addressing this pressing issue.
