ANKARA, Turkey - As there is no glimmer of hope for an economic recovery in Turkey as the lira currency continues to lose its value against the US dollar, people in the capital city of Ankara do not seem interested in buying gifts for their loved ones for the New Year celebrations, believing they have to pay more attention to their daily needs and essentials.
The dreadful financial crunch has plagued Turkey amid the drastic devaluation of the Turkish lira for several years now.
Like other nations across the world, Turks have traditionally ever since 1935, when for the first time January 1 was made an official holiday, celebrated the event, buying gifts to their loved ones, illustrating their houses with lights and palm trees, wearing red outfits and drinking on the Eve of the New Year. But this year, it does not seem to be the case in every household.
"Every year before the beginning of the year, the market used to be very crowded. I come to this market every year, but this year the situation is very bad," Erdal Mushi, a Kurdish resident of Ankara, said.
Hundan Cham is another disappointed shopkeeper who is sad to see a low number of people buying new year gifts.
"The situation is affecting us badly, there is a serious economic crisis, people don't have money for luxury, people barely manage to make their ends meet," she decried.
In urban areas, streets, alleys, public places, and shopping centres are decked out with lights and holiday displays, with homes decorated with Christmas trees.
