Turkey marks World Down Syndrome Day

By Bugra Ersavas and Osman Akca

ANKARA (AA) - Several activities were held across Turkey on Wednesday to mark World Down Syndrome Day.

Ali Ihsan Arslan, a member of ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party, congratulated the National Amputee Team in an event organized by Special Athletes Sports Federation in the capital Ankara.

Didem Engin, a member of main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), held a news conference along with persons with Down Syndrome at the parliament.

Ankara Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Policies organized a program for children with Down Syndrome which included breakfast and various games.

Tekirdag Metropolitan Municipality organized "We run with +1 difference" race in northwestern Tekirdag province. Some 40 children with Down Syndrome participated in the 47-meter race. All of the participants were awarded medals.

In central Konya province, students wearing t-shirts with the slogan: "We are one of you with one difference" worked with cashiers at a shopping mall.

In Ortaca district of southwestern Mugla province, the city council organized an event to mark the day.

In southern Kilis province, "Off-road Friendship Tour" was held by Provincial Directorate of National Education.

March 21 is observed annually to raise awareness for Down Syndrome, a congenital disorder caused by having an extra 21st chromosome.