The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs has urged Australians planning to visit Turkey for the traditional commemorative services on Anzac Day to take note of travel advice issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The Minister, Darren Chester said the security situation for Australians visiting Turkey was being closely monitored with their safety the highest priority.
“The Department of Veterans’ Affairs is continuing to make plans to conduct the traditional commemorative services at Anzac Cove on April 25,” Mr Chester said.
“I advise anyone planning to travel to Turkey for Anzac Day to monitor the latest travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade,” he said.
“The current advice is for travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Ankara, Istanbul and in Turkey overall.”
He said higher security levels applied in some parts of the country because of the high threat of terrorist attack .
“The Prime Minister has asked that this advice is reviewed in light of recent developments,” he said.
Mr Chester reiterated the statement by the Prime Minister that there was no link between the recent Christchurch tragedy and the 1915 Gallipoli campaign or memorial services.
“The Prime Ministers of both Australia and New Zealand have condemned the terrorist attack by the right wing extremist,” Mr Chester said.
“Australia has a long and enduring relationship with Turkey based on mutual respect and our shared sacrifice of more than 100 years ago.”
He said the annual memorial service at Anzac Cove was a solemn commemoration of the service and sacrifice of the Australian, New Zealand and Turkish peoples.
