Gül studying Syria in his sickbed

ANKARA

AA Photo

President Abdullah Gül has been continuing to study developments in Syria from his sickbed amid continuing treatment for an acute ear infection.

Gül was shown in a picture to be reading a report on Syria with a map showing regions where clashes between the Syrian army and the opposition groups have taken place, as well as other important developments between Aug. 20 and Aug. 26. The report also includes some statistical data thought to be connected to the rise in violence in the turmoil-hit country. A picture from Damascus is also attached to the report.

“I am not killing my time here. I am continuing working, reading reports and books,” he said in a message he posted on his Twitter account.

The president also said his health was improving and that he would stay a few days more in the hospital.

Despite being unable to host a reception for Aug. 30 Victory Day, Gül was said to have marked the holiday from his sickbed.

Gül was advised to stay in the hospital until Sunday to continue intense medical care, and doctors also recommended that the president not attend Victory Day ceremonies and festivities.

The 62-year-old president suffered from increased fluid and pressure in both ears and had to cut a trip to Kyrgyzstan short on Aug. 23 in order to return home for treatment. The recurring ear infection is something the president has struggled with for years. Upon his return, he was immediately rushed to Hacettepe University Hospital.