Erdoğan: 2008 was a hard year for Turkey, but not a lost one

In a televised address to the nation yesterday, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that 2008 had been a hard year for Turkey, but not a lost one. Stating that 2008 would be remembered for the global economic crisis that hit all countries all over the world, Erdogan said that the government had successfully steered Turkey's economy through this process, despite a number of difficulties. The impact of the crisis on Turkey will probably continue next year, but the government has taken all necessary measures to weather the crisis with minimal damage and will continue to do so, Erdogan said. Touching on the importance of preserving the country's atmosphere of stability and trust in the face of the crisis, Erdogan said, "We're aware that together with its adverse effects, the crisis also offers important economic opportunities for Turkey. We will work hand in hand to make 2009 a year of opportunities for Turkey. We will address the crisis' negative effects on our country as quickly as possible, and turn it into an impetus for a stronger initiative and more dynamic economy." Stating that everyone in Turkey has many reasons to look to the future with hope, Erdogan stressed, "This hope and self-confidence will see the country through the crisis. We should keep our faith in the future of Turkey and enthusiasm for progress." Erdogan also said the most effective way out of the crisis is to continue to produce, adding that no one should doubt that Turkey will score successes next year, as in the past six years under his party's rule. "Every new year means a new excitement and beginning," he said.