Erdogan says Turkey to start gradual COVID-19 normalisation in March

Turkey will begin a gradual return to normal life on a province by province basis from March, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday, adding that nationwide weekend COVID-19 lockdowns would be lifted in some provinces based on infection rates.

Turkey's curfews, weekend lockdowns and other curbs were adopted in December in the face of rising cases. It plans a gradual nationwide re-opening of schools beginning March 1.

Speaking after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdogan said a decision on re-opening of cafes and restaurants would be made in the coming days, and urged citizens to continue abiding by the measures.