Turkey prepares for 2011 Universiade Games in Erzurum

Turkey's Erzurum Metropolitan Mayor Ahmet Kucukler said that preparations for the 2011 Universiade games are underway and all facilities would be completed by 2011, Turkish Daily News reported on Wednesday.

Kucukler said that they would start the construction of an ice hockey facility when the weather gets warmer, adding that a master plan would be prepared for Mount Palandoken to include Turkey's first ski jumping towers.

"We will also open new slopes on Palandoken. We will remedy the infrastructure deficiencies of the mountain within a short time, " said he.

Kucukler noted that the investment for 2011 Universiade would change the fate of the city, adding that at least 300 million U.S. dollars would be invested in Erzurum in eastern Turkey.

"This organization will provide employment for unemployed people in Erzurum and food for the hungry. The city, which will become a brand thanks to investments for the event, will become one of Turkey's winter tourism centers and its economy will improve. We will also be promoting our country thanks to this event," said Kucukler.

Kucukler mentioned that the appearance of a city, which would host an international organization, was very important, adding, "We need to make Erzurum a special city. That's why development work starts now in the city. Also, we will do our best to restore the historic buildings in the city. The 2011 Universiade will be an occasion for Erzurum to evolve change."