Mansur Yavaş responds to Erdoğan criticism: 'If we don't meet with those who govern this country, how are we supposed to provide services?'

Ankara Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mansur Yavaş has responded to the criticism directed at him following his meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Speaking at the 7th Ordinary General Assembly of the Ankara City Council, Yavaş stated that contact with the central government is mandatory for the projects carried out by the municipality.

Yavaş noted that there are financing and Treasury approval processes involving approximately 1.3 billion dollars for metro investments in Ankara and approximately 800 million euros for other projects.

Responding to the criticism with the words, "If we don't meet with those who govern this country, how are we supposed to provide services? We will continue to meet for the sake of Ankara," Yavaş emphasized that negotiations with the necessary institutions are ongoing to ensure the execution of services.

"YOU HAVE TO BE THE MAYOR FOR EVERYONE"

Touching upon the decision-making processes in the Ankara Metropolitan Municipal Council, Yavaş expressed his satisfaction that projects are passing through the council with unanimous consent. Noting that different political views should not be a divisive factor in city administration, Yavaş pointed out that the office of the mayor must be inclusive, stating the following:

"Political views and debates may differ, but this situation should not reflect on the approach to service. People with different views live together in Ankara. As mayor, you have to be the mayor for everyone."

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"THERE IS TORMENT IN SEPARATION, MERCY IN UNITY"

While leaving the program, Yavaş told the journalists waiting for him, "Friends, we will gather soon and discuss these questions all together. There is nothing to talk about right now. There is torment in separation, and mercy in unity."

News Source: 12punto