Turkey bans citizens from attending Gallipoli Anzac service April 24, 2019 - 11:55 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Turkish nationals have been banned from attending tomorrow’s Anzac Day dawn service on the Gallipoli peninsula amid heightened security fears, The Australian reports. The Turkish government has imposed a strict ban on locals being anywhere on the peninsula for the service, including bus drivers and tour guides, only a month after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke about sending Australians home in body bags, and the Turkish media repeatedly broadcast footage of the Christchurch massacre during political campaigning. Only registered foreigners, comprising about 700 Australians and 500 New Zealanders, will be given access to the peninsula after the Turkish military imposed the lockdown after a huge security sweep. However, Turkish dignitaries who are part of the service will be allowed to attend. One official, who did not want to be named, said: “Everyone who is on site is registered, security-cleared, and we know about them. “Nothing is left to chance and keeping every Turkish person out eliminates a lot of risk. From the top, it is very important that nothing happens.’’ About 1200 people, including VIPs and their entourages, are expected to attend, which is about the same number as last year.  Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads.   Partner news |  Latest news Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims  Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide.Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed.Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham).Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |
