Turkish Leaders Welcome Children To Parliament

Turkish President Abdullah Gul and Parliament Speaker Cemil Cicek have received children at the 94th anniversary of the foundation of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey and National Sovereignty and Children's Day.



President Gul welcomed dozens of children from Ankara-based schools on Wednesday and advised them not to waste time in front of television.



"Much of television's broadcasting would not be of interest to you. Instead, read books. Go to bed early since you are going to school in the early hours," Gul said.



The president also advised students to study hard and be realistic about their expectations in life.



Similarly, Turkish Parliament Speaker Cicek welcomed children to the parliament.



"Today is both our and your holiday. Turkey is the first country that designated a day for children. In a way, 23 April is a holiday for all children around the world.  We are proud of that," Cicek told visiting children.



The Grand National Assembly of Turkey was founded in Ankara on 23 April, 1920 amid the Turkish War of Independence.



Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the first speaker of the Turkish Assembly.



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