Turkish president says press freedom crucial for nation

ANKARA

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday stressed the importance of press freedom and pluralism in a healthy society.

“We desire a freer and more pluralist Turkish press where all ideas are represented,” Erdogan said, addressing a journalism award ceremony in the capital Ankara.

He reiterated that the international media deliberately does not cover the accomplishments of Turkey.

Erdogan also expressed sorrow over the death of Abdulkadir Nisanci, an Anadolu Agency journalist, who died in an unfortunate event while he was on duty.

Erdogan wished God's mercy on Nisanci and extended condolences to his family.

He condemned the embarrassing rumors shared on social media after the incident.

Nisanci was on a mission at Mt. Soganli in northeastern Turkey when he fell off a cliff on May 10 and died.

ANKARA

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday stressed the importance of press freedom and pluralism in a healthy society.

“We desire a freer and more pluralist Turkish press where all ideas are represented,” Erdogan said, addressing a journalism award ceremony in the capital Ankara.

He reiterated that the international media deliberately does not cover the accomplishments of Turkey.

Erdogan also expressed sorrow over the death of Abdulkadir Nisanci, an Anadolu Agency journalist, who died in an unfortunate event while he was on duty.

Erdogan wished God's mercy on Nisanci and extended condolences to his family.

He condemned the embarrassing rumors shared on social media after the incident.

Nisanci was on a mission at Mt. Soganli in northeastern Turkey when he fell off a cliff on May 10 and died.