COVID-19 closes military schools and cancels exercises in Turkey

Defence Redefined

Published on 17/03/2020 at 09:24

With Turkey in a state of emergency following the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 and the confirmation of 29 outbreaks in one day, Defence Minister Hulusi Akar announced on Monday 16/3, the closure of military schools and the cancellation of planned exercises by the Turkish army. 

According to the Anadolu News Agency, the measures, as the Turkish minister said, will be taken in such a way that they do not affect Turkey’s domestic and international operations, its border security or other activities of the Turkish armed forces. 

Activities such as ceremonies, conferences, meetings, lessons, exhibitions and seminars have also been cancelled. In addition, according to Aqar, visits to Turkish military headquarters and facilities have been forbidden. 

“National and international exercises have been postponed and temporary missions abroad are being suspended until further notice, while overseas personnel will undergo health checks upon return, while contact with other personnel will be avoided for some time.” In addition, the Turkish Minister said that “Border patrol units have been reorganized and equipped with special protective clothing and masks to protect them from the virus”, to clarify that “these movements are aimed at protecting staff and the nation from the virus».