France closes missions in Turkey over security reasons

By Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA (AA) - France closed its diplomatic missions in Turkey until further notice Wednesday over unspecified security reasons.

Receptions planned for Thursday -- Bastille Day, which marks the start of the French Revolution -- were cancelled at the embassy in Ankara and consulates in Istanbul and Izmir, according to a statement on the embassy website.

"For security reasons, July 14 receptions planned in Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir are cancelled,” the statement said. “We have informed the Turkish authorities of this decision and remain in close contact with them.

"The embassy of France in Ankara, as well as the consulate general in Istanbul will be closed from Wednesday July 13… until further notice. We thank the French community in Turkey and all our guests for their understanding."