Gul hosts receptions marking republic day

Celebrating 85th Republic Day, President Abdullah Gul and his wife Hayrunnisa last night threw a reception at the Cankaya Presidential Palace for nearly 900 guests, including representatives of non-governmental organizations, businessmen, artists, athletes, journalists and media representatives. Asked by reporters about the impact of the global financial crisis on Turkey's economy, Gul said, "Turkey is taking proper measures to counter the crisis. We should take the crisis seriously, but should also guard against an atmosphere of panic." Earlier in the day, Gul hosted a reception for top state and government officials at the palace, including Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, National Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, and other political party representatives. Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, in the midst of an official visit to Turkey, also attended.