Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has inaugurated 26 newly completed investment projects in the northeastern province of Rize, with a combined value of 10 billion Turkish liras, highlighting ongoing infrastructure, housing, transportation and healthcare investments across the province.

Speaking at an opening ceremony in Rize, Erdoğan said the government had a responsibility not only to the country's current population but also to future generations.

“We shoulder both your trust and responsibility. We carry the hope of millions who have turned their faces to our country. We are responsible not only to our 86 million citizens, but also to the next generations,” Erdoğan said.

Erdoğan said housing projects carried out by the Housing Development Administration of Türkiye (TOKİ) had accelerated following the devastating earthquakes of February 2023.

A total of 5,636 housing units have been completed in the province, while construction continues on another 1,221 units, he said.

The government has made large-scale housing reconstruction a priority following the earthquakes, which caused widespread destruction across southern and southeastern Türkiye.

Erdoğan also announced the opening of a 330,000-square-meter public garden, saying the project would add new green space to Rize and provide residents with additional recreational areas.

He also highlighted the newly opened Rize Culture Street, saying the project would contribute to the city's economic and social development.

Transportation infrastructure was another major focus of Erdoğan's remarks.

He announced that work had begun on the Rize Southern Ring Road and Tunnels Project, which spans approximately 30 kilometers and is expected to strengthen transportation links around the city.

Erdoğan also pointed to investments in maritime infrastructure and tourism, describing transportation and connectivity as key components of Rize's continued development.

Turning to healthcare, Erdoğan said Rize's total hospital bed capacity had reached 1,235.

He added that efforts were continuing to ensure that Rize City Hospital and Çayeli State Hospital provide uninterrupted healthcare services at a high standard.

Erdoğan said the government's investment program was designed to address both the immediate needs of citizens and the country's longer-term development.

“We shoulder both your trust and responsibility,” he reiterated. “We carry the hope of millions who have turned their faces to our country. We are responsible not only to our 86 million citizens, but also to the next generations.” (ILKHA)