ANKARA - President Ahmet Necdet Sezer said on Saturday, ''despite all efforts, there are still problems in the quake-stricken region waiting for solution. Bringing personal interests to the forefront during construction of new settlement units instead of applying legal arrangements and development plans prepared with scientific data is the most important factor causing such destruction.''
Releasing a message upon the fourth anniversary of the massive quake disaster which devastated Marmara region, killing thousands of people and injuring tens of thousands of others, President Sezer said, ''this quake disaster, which occurred four years ago, created a profound sorrow in our country. The disaster deeply affected economic and social life in our country. Turkish nation gave one of the greatest solidarity samples in its history by launching a mobilization to heal wounds of the disaster. Our quake survivors were not intimidated by all difficulties stemming from the disaster, and expended efforts to start a new life. They overcame this difficult period with a great sacrifice and solidarity.''
''It is impossible to bring our losses back. However, our efforts aim at protecting rely of our citizens in the future, reviving their hopes and removing their difficulties. Despite all these efforts, there are still problems in the quake-stricken region waiting for solution. I believe that works aiming at providing quake-survivors with better standards will end soon,'' he said.
Noting that the massive quake disaster and ensuing earthquakes had proved once again that Turkey was a country of earthquakes, President Sezer noted, ''bringing individual interest to the forefront during construction of new settlement units instead of applying legal arrangements and development plans prepared with scientific data is the most important factor causing such destruction.''
President Sezer implored God's strength upon all who are grieving for their beloved ones on the 4th anniversary of the quake disaster.
(UK-MS) 16.08.2003