JEDDAH, 19 January 2004 — Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan opened a new building of the International Turkish School near the Saudi German Hospital here yesterday.

The premier spent more than an hour with the Turkish children. Chants of “Turkey is proud of you” greeted the premier as he entered the school with his entourage that included Turkish Ambassador Osman Durak.

Children greeted him waving colorful paper flags and sang the national anthem. “This school symbolizes that Turkish people are doing well here. As you grow up to be responsible individuals, you’ll become a vital bridge between your country and the Kingdom. You’re the pride of Turkey,” he told the children.

And he gave them a piece of advice: “You should study well and strive to put your knowledge to practical use.”