Minister Bayraktar Visits Zonguldak and Meets with Local Officials
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar paid a series of visits in Zonguldak, including stops at the Governorship and the AK Party Provincial Headquarters. Later, he proceeded to the Kozlu Hard Coal Enterprise of the Turkish Hard Coal Authority (TTK), where he joined miners for an iftar meal at a depth of 630 metres underground. Zonguldak Governor Osman Hacıbektaşoğlu, AK Party MPs Muammer Avcı and Ahmet Çolakoğlu, AK Party Provincial Chair Mustafa Çağlayan, and AK Party MKYK member Mesut Özil also participated in the event.
Emphasising National Energy Independence
Significance of Domestic Resources
During his speech, Minister Bayraktar underlined the increased importance of energy due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He stated, “The importance of your work is once again clear. A country that has its own energy resources and can utilize them is much stronger and more resilient. That is why we have always advocated for the National Energy and Mining Policy.” Bayraktar reiterated their efforts to reduce foreign energy dependency through domestic coal in Zonguldak, natural gas from the Black Sea, and oil from Gabar.
Commitment to Occupational Safety and Environmental Harmony
Worker Safety as Top Priority
The Minister stressed that occupational health and safety remain the foremost concern. “Your health, safety, and security are our highest priorities. Of course, we will continue to produce, and as our country grows, production is vital, but it must be achieved with your well-being in mind,” he stated. He also emphasized the aim to integrate Turkey’s mining resources into the economy in a way that is compatible with environmental protection.
Rapid Implementation of Safety Measures
Bayraktar highlighted the continuous improvement in safety protocols, noting, “We must maintain the highest standards in safety measures. Our working methods and habits must reflect this approach. Rest assured, we are implementing all necessary precautions together, and we are acting swiftly to normalize working hours and conditions. There is no need for concern.”
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