Turkish leader marks Intl Day of Disabled Persons

By Ali Murat Alhas

ANKARA (AA) – Turkey's president on Thursday said disabled persons are an indispensable part of the Turkish community and their success in different fields was a source of pride for him.

According to the Directorate of Communications, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued a statement to mark the international day celebrated on Dec. 3 in line with UN designation.

The Turkish leader said success stories of disabled individuals in sports, arts, politics, education and the business world were a source of pride, and they were an indispensable part of the community.

Erdogan went on to say that his administration prioritized communal activities aimed at smashing prejudices and it realized investments, services seeking to eliminate physical barriers of disabled persons.

Although coronavirus spread added to the burden of disabled persons, the Turkish state did not leave them all alone against the virus threat and supported them physically and mentally, according to Erdogan, who said his administration would continue its efforts to ensure their peace and prosperity.

The UN General Assembly designated Dec. 3 as the International Day of Disabled Persons in 1992, with an aim to highlight the difficulties and problems people face.