Erdoğan on First Covid-19 Case in Turkey: No Virus is Stronger Than Our Measures

* Photo & Source: Anadolu Agency (AA)

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President and ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) Chair Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has spoken at the weekly group meeting of his party.

In his speech at the Parliament today (March 11), Erdoğan has also touched upon the first case of Covid-19, the new strain of coronavirus, in Turkey. He briefly stated the following about the issue:

"Coronavirus has been detected in tests conducted on a citizen of ours coming from Europe. His family and relatives are our close observation.

"The person diagnosed with the virus is in good health.

'Those with a weak constitution should avoid crowded places'

"No virus is stronger than our measures.

"The measures that we will take will be the most effective method of protection. Our citizens with a weak constitution should avoid crowded places, at least for a particular period of time.

"God willing, we will get over it too. May the God help us and be on our side."

Idlib: Turkey will do more than mere retaliation

In his speech at the group meeting, President Erdoğan has also addressed the latest situation in Syria's Idlib.

"Turkey will respond heavily if its observation posts in northwestern Syria's Idlib province are targeted," Erdoğan has said and added, "Turkey will do more than mere retaliation if its observation posts in Idlib are targeted."

Indicating that last week's ceasefire in Idlib was achieved following Turkey's military campaign there, Erdoğan has stated that "Turkey is closely watching developments on the ground."

"We are closely monitoring the deployment of the Assad regime and allied militants near the cease-fire lines," President Erdoğan has said, stressing that "Turkey will abide by the ceasefire deal so long as the Assad regime and its allies do the same." (PT/SD)