ISTANBUL (AP) — Promoters of Istanbul’s bid for the 2020 Olympics say they’re confident the Turkish people remain united behind their campaign despite fierce anti-government protests around the country in recent days.
The demonstrations grew out of anger over a violent police crackdown of a peaceful environmental protest at Istanbul’s Taksim Square and spread to other Turkish cities. The government said some 1,000 people were detained during the protests. Hundreds were injured in the clashes.
Recommended Stories
In a statement late Sunday, Istanbul 2020 organizers say “all sections of Turkey remain united in our dream to host our nation’s first ever Olympic and Paralympic Games. The slogan for our Olympic bid is ‘Bridge Together’ and there is a common desire to unite in the Olympic spirit and show the world that we can work together for a better Turkey.”
