Erdogan’s New Cabinet Wins Vote of Confidence

The new Turkish government won a parliamentary vote of confidence on Wednesday. The new government won 322 votes in the 550-seat Turkish parliament, 173 lawmakers voted against it. 55 lawmakers were absent.

Turkey’s 61st government was formed by Justice & Development (AK) Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdogan. AK Party secured 327 seats in the parliament after a landslide victory in June 12 elections.

276 votes would help the government win the confidence vote.

In his brief speech after the voting, Prime Minister Erdogan thanked lawmakers and said: “I know we have a busy time ahead. I believe that we will be together in struggle for a bright future under this blessed roof where sovereignty rests unconditionally with the nation.”
Erdogan went on saying: “Our solidarity and unity here will be an important test for us to carry our country beyond the level of contemporary civilization. We will pass this test together.”

13 July 2011
SOURCE: CUMHURIYET.COM.TR