Turkish President Erdogan underscores the importance of urban renewal in high-risk earthquake areas during a ceremony in Ankara.

Addressing attendees at the AFAD-DSİ Flood and Overflow Risk Reduction Protocol Ceremony in Ankara, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan highlighted the necessity of urban transformation for disaster readiness in Turkey.

Erdoğan emphasized that in a country where 71 percent of the population resides in regions with high earthquake risk, urban renewal is not just an option but a crucial requirement. He stressed the urgency of addressing shortcomings in disaster preparedness and transforming unsafe structures, particularly in cities like Istanbul.

"Disaster preparedness transcends politics," Erdoğan stated, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and prosperity of its citizens. He expressed a desire to prevent further suffering and destruction caused by neglect, political rivalry, or greed.

Erdoğan pledged government support for projects aimed at enhancing public safety, including urban transformation, flood and overflow risk reduction, stream rehabilitation, and afforestation initiatives. (ILKHA)