PM reported to be in good health following second surgery

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan underwent a successful medical procedure on his digestive system and was in good health, his office said on Saturday. The planned 30-minute procedure was the second and final phase to keyhole surgery performed on Erdogan's small intestine on Nov. 26, it said. "The prime minister is in very good health. He plans to continue his routine engagements during the week," his office said in a statement. His office did not say when the procedure took place, but Turkish media reported that Erdogan, 57, had been taken to a hospital in Istanbul late on Friday. Erdoğan, whose Justice and Development Party (AKP) won a third consecutive term in an election in June, is by far Turkey's most influential politician. Minister Recep Akdag commented on Erdogan's health, saying there is nothing to be concerned about with regard to his condition. "Thank God our prime minister is in very good health," said Akdag. European Affairs Minister and chief EU negotiator Egemen Bagis also on Saturday said: "I know that everyone is wondering about the prime minister's health. Don't worry at all. He is all fine. Unfortunately, there are people who love spreading false rumors about Erdogan's health. However, we will continue developing Turkey with the leadership of our prime minister." Also commenting on Erdogan's health on Saturday, Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay told the press he prayed next to Erdogan at the Friday prayer and Erdogan appeared to be in very good health. "We are all happy to see him in good health. I wish to see him serve this country for many years to come," Gunay added.