Age is no handicap for President Gul's father

He goes to Asteksan Factory that manufactures utility poles, city furniture and billboards for 20 countries, every day and supervises the work. He and his other son Macit jointly run the factory.

The old man says that he gets bored at home and he likes working with young people. 'They are smart and hard – working. Young people use the technology very well and they have broad visions.'

He says that the young can use today's machines better than the old because those machines are digital and latest products of technology. 'In our time the machines were manual. They would require talent, ability and caution' he says.

The 88 year old father states that he has been working since 1941 and sharing all his experiences with younger generations.

When people ask him why does he still work, although he is the father of the President, he reminds them the same words of his: 'To work is a religious practice' and continues: 'Some people ask me 'Ahmet, one of your sons is the President and the other is an owner of a factory, why do you still work?' and I tell them that I am used to working and I get bored when I sit at home.'

Gul says that he sometimes has a difficulty in walking. 'So I do not use the lathe machine but try to train young people as much possible as.'

'When I feel tired, I go to my room, read newspapers and watch television. I also meet with the guests and the clients that come,' he added.

The 88 year old, awarded as 'The brother of the year' by Kayseri Union of Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (KESOB) in 2003, ends his words by saying: 'For as long as I live, I will keep working. To be at home is just not for me.'