Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, regarding the minimum pension of 12 thousand 500 liras, said, “An evaluation will definitely be made regarding this amount. I think that along with the general increases, a study will definitely be carried out regarding our retirees who receive the minimum monthly pension, but a legal regulation is needed here.” he said.
Yılmaz answered questions and evaluated the agenda on NTV live broadcast.
“There have been reports that a fee will be charged from the sender of the location, or a map tax. What is the situation on this issue?” Yılmaz answered the question, “This is completely unreal. Such a thing is out of the question. There is a regulation, you know. It is a regulation regarding those who take data from the geographical information matrix and use it for income or commercial purposes. It is a regulation that has no connection with tradesmen or citizens who share location information at work.” “I am sure the relevant institution will explain the details. I would like to state that it is a completely unrealistic, completely unfounded claim.” he replied.
“How would you evaluate the developments in Syria and the region? Has the opportunity for a political solution been postponed with the reshaped map, or will this crisis lead the Assad regime to the table with new dynamics?” In response to the question, Yılmaz reminded that there has been instability in Syria for about 13 years and continued as follows:
“Our stance here is clear. We are a country that supports the territorial integrity of Syria. We are a country that wants the stability and peace of Syria. The incident we are seeing now is a conflict between the regime and the opposition in Syria and our sensitivities as Turkey are here. First of all, we have been wanting stability and peace in Syria for a long time. For this reason, Turkey has taken a very constructive position here in many platforms such as the United Nations processes and Astana processes. As you know, our President has been calling the Syrian regime. ‘Let’s talk, let’s find a political solution, let’s end this instability.’ But unfortunately, this did not receive any response. We all know this. Turkey’s sensitivities have not changed at this point. We are in favor of an inclusive political solution that includes all elements, from all sects, ethnic groups and political views. “We want a Syria where people come together and provide peace, security and co-living conditions.”
Yılmaz stated that it is not possible for Turkey to show any tolerance towards terrorist structures that benefit from the instability in the region, and that they see the fight against terrorism as a priority issue.
Pointing to the events regarding migration to Turkey in this 13-year period, Yılmaz said, “Our natural desire is for a political solution to be formed, peace and security to come to Syria, threats to Turkey to disappear, and on the other hand, Syrians who have been in Turkey for a long time to come to Turkey.” “The voluntary, safe and dignified return of our brothers and sisters to their countries and lands.” he said.
Yılmaz stated that the process of clearing Tel Rifat from terrorist elements is important and that they welcome it, and emphasized that Tel Rifat is a very important and strategic region in terms of ensuring that people in the region live in safety and peace and reducing the risks of attacks against Turkey.
“THIS IS NOT SUCH A RANDOM EVENT, IT IS REALLY CONNECTED WITH DEVELOPMENTS”
“To summarize briefly, the process that started with the Öcalan exit by MHP Chairman Mr. Devlet Bahçeli created a very important agenda. How do you evaluate both those statements and the process we have come to today from those statements, what has happened, and where will this process evolve in the next period?” Upon the question, Yilmaz gave the following answer:
“Mr. Bahçeli is a very important politician and statesman, and he develops an attitude for the future of our country and nation by analyzing and looking at the developments and historical developments in our region. We really need to understand this well. This is not such a random incident, it is really linked to developments. On the one hand, we see that some imperialist games and threats are developing in our region. In fact, when we go back 100 years, we see that qualitatively similar situations are happening today, as well as the threats posed by Israel in the region. We see conflicts and geopolitical tensions all together. I think Mr. Bahçeli has the following attitude in this environment. The truth is, he always says this: ‘First my country, my nation, then my party and me.’ “I see it as a reflection of this attitude. I believe that we should see the big picture here, without getting caught up in the details. The big picture is a terror-free Turkey in the Turkey Century. Strengthening the survival of our nation and eliminating the threats to our country.” “This should definitely not be interpreted differently in terms of the fight against terrorism. The determined and strong fight against terrorism will of course continue, but efforts will also be made with the aim of creating a terror-free Turkey.”
“CIVIL POLITICS AND TERRORISM ARE NOT CONCEPTS THAT CAN COME TOGETHER AT THE SAME TIME”
Vice President Yılmaz said that the assignments made to some municipalities should be viewed with basic principles.
“Democracy and terrorism, civil politics and terrorism are not concepts that can come together at the same time.” Yılmaz said:
“This is not an issue specific to Turkey. In any democracy, it is out of the question for civil politics and terrorism, democratic institutions and terrorist structures to be intertwined. This is a temporary measure regarding the trustees. When the final decision is made by the judiciary, it is of course possible to make judgments on a personal basis. A temporary measure is being implemented here until the decision is made. The essence of the matter is this: In an environment where there is no terrorism, such a problem will disappear by itself. When the shadow of terrorism disappears from democracy, when the shadow of terrorism on civil politics is eliminated, there will be grounds for such a discussion. “There will be no such need. Therefore, the essential thing is that the shadow of terrorism on civilian politics should be eliminated and that democracy and civil politics should operate within its own rules.”
“THE CHANGE PROCESS WILL COVER EVERY AREA NEEDED”
“Is a cabinet overhaul expected?” On the question, Yılmaz said, “I think the change process will cover every area that is needed. Whatever the expectations and demands of our people, the AK Party has always been a party that is sensitive to it. The event on which our President bases his entire political life is the expectations of the nation. Therefore, whatever this requires.” will be done.” he replied.
“Turkish Grand National Assembly Planning and Budget Commission discussions are over. There were tensions from time to time. How did it go for you?” In response to the question, Yılmaz said that he attaches great importance to the commission discussions and finds the discussions here very valuable.
Pointing out that all kinds of ideas should be discussed as long as the procedure is appropriate and the style is correct, Yılmaz said, “Many deputies make very valuable contributions, but unfortunately we have also seen incidents that do not suit our Veteran Parliament. It is absolutely impossible to approve the incident, especially against our Minister of Internal Affairs. It is an anti-democratic attitude. It is rude.” “This attempt to obstruct by force is an approach that is in no way appropriate for the Parliament.” he said.
“Türkiye CONTINUES ITS GROWTH PROCESS, NOT IN CONS”
“November inflation data has been announced. In this context, what is your year-end forecast? Are things going at the desired level in the fight against inflation?” In response to the question, Yılmaz said that when we look at the figures, it is seen that Turkey is moving in the right direction.
Stating that the disinflation process will continue in the coming period, Yılmaz said, “Turkey will reach single-digit figures again within a certain period of time. We will continue our fight in a determined, coordinated manner and with multi-dimensional policies until we reach these single-digit figures. Not only with monetary policy but also with fiscal policy, public and “We will continue to implement this program with policies and transformations that increase efficiency and competitiveness in the private sector.” he said.
Yılmaz said, “Especially after the announcement of the third quarter growth data, ‘Türkiye has entered a technical recession.’ There are those who make comments, there are also those who do not agree with this opinion. What do you say about this issue? In response to the question, “2.1 percent growth was achieved in the third quarter data. Our uninterrupted growth continues for 17 quarters. This is our main picture. Turkey is not in negatives, on the contrary, it continues its growth process. The second quarter was slightly below expectations, but when we look at the leading indicators we saw regarding the fourth quarter “We’re seeing some more recovery.” he replied.
Stating that they expect the growth process of the economy to continue in the fourth quarter, Yılmaz noted that despite the developments in the world, Turkey grew by 3.2 percent in the 9 months of this year and maintained its dynamism.
Stating that the retrospective annualized 12-month growth was 3.6 percent, Yılmaz said, “Our year-end forecast is 3.5 percent in the MTP. This third quarter data created some downside risks, but we believe that this will be compensated to a certain extent in the fourth quarter.” he said.
“I THINK THAT A STUDY WILL DEFINITELY BE DONE ABOUT OUR RETIRED MINIMUM MONTHLY EARNINGS”
“The Minimum Wage Determination Commission will start its work. There are many different opinions. What kind of increase policy will it be?” On the question, Yılmaz said, “The first meeting will be held on December 10, and this issue will be clarified by the end of December at the latest. Minimum wage is the minimum wage. ‘Nothing less than this.’ “It is a wage that is called. No one supports those who pay more than this. I wish everyone in the private sector or in other fields would pay more.” he said.
Reminding that the minimum wage was increased by more than 100 percent in 2023 and by nearly 50 percent in 2024, and that the minimum wage was excluded from tax with a historical decision, Yılmaz said, “Just because we excluded the minimum wage from tax, the tax expenditure we made this year is 677 billion Turkish lira.” We are talking about 850 billion lira next year. When we look at what this means per capita, the income tax given up is 35 thousand 505. lira, stamp duty is 1822 lira. This is the taxes that the public gives up not only on the minimum wage but also on all income up to the minimum wage.” he said.
Yılmaz said that a figure regarding the minimum wage will be shaped in line with the demands of employees and the private sector.
“New Year’s Eve is also a raise period for civil servants and retirees. Will there be an additional regulation for the 3.8 million retirees who receive the lowest salary?” On the question, Yılmaz reminded that the AK Party introduced the minimum retirement wage regulation and that it is currently at the level of 12 thousand 500 liras.
Expressing that the most basic rules are not to subject citizens to inflation, Yılmaz said, “Those rules will definitely work. An evaluation will definitely be made regarding this 12 thousand 500 lira minimum amount. I think that along with the general increases, a study will definitely be made regarding our retirees who receive the minimum monthly salary, but there is no legal regulation here.” It is necessary.” he said.
“AN APPROACH TO SUPPORT THE DISINFLATION PROCESS”
“The revaluation rate was published in the Official Gazette as 43.93 percent. There is an expectation from Mr. President about a reduction, especially regarding motor vehicle tax. Will any steps be taken in this direction?” In response to the question, Yılmaz said, “The Presidency has a discount authority. This will be considered in two balances. On the one hand, the public needs revenue, and on the other hand, there is the dimension of supporting the disinflation policy with fiscal policy and meeting social demands. An evaluation will be made between these. Certain decisions will be taken. Disinflation “I think a supportive approach will be taken to the process.” he replied.
“The second Donald Trump term will begin in the USA. How are the expectations for this period shaped?” On the question, Yılmaz said, “Various analyzes are being made based on the discourses of those who were included in the cabinet and some past evaluations. We also have a good saying: ‘The head who wears the crown becomes wiser.’ “After assuming responsibility, we need to see the concrete actions and policies of this administration.” he said.
Yılmaz stated that Turkey wants a positive period and a positive agenda in relations with the USA.
