Bob Geldof unable to understand lack of government support for arts in Turkey

ISTANBUL

Geldof attends a launch of the Africa Progress Report 2014 in London. REUTERS Photo

World famous singer, songwriter and activist Bob Geldof has said he finds it difficult to understand why the Turkish government did not support the film “Winter Sleep,” which won the Palm d’Or award at the Cannes Film Festival this year.

Speaking at this year's 15th International Brand Conference, Geldof said for Turkey to become a brand internationally, government sponsorship for ambitious arts projects is needed.

He said that every time he visited Turkey, he has met many people who "make Turkey’s history and culture survive," but these people are not known internationally. He added that how Turkey is perceived internationally today is related to the present government.

Geldof also touched on the Ebola virus, pointing out that Ebola is not unique to Africa, but rather a global issue that the entire world should focus on. While the United Kingdom, Sweden and Germany reacted immediately to the threat posed by the disease, Turkey has not done anything against Ebola, he added.