Bolivian leader touts national social movements

<p>By Beyza Binnur Donmez</p> <p>ANKARA (AA) – Bolivia’s ruling party is the result of various native social movements coming together, said the nation’s president on Monday.</p> <p>&quot;It's time to defend multiplicity, peace and international justice. We came to a time where the imperialist shares ended,&quot; Evo Morales told a news conference in the Turkish capital Ankara, where he is paying an official visit.</p> <p>Morales stressed that since the establishment of the Republic of Bolivia, nearly 200 years ago, the social movements &quot;became the savior like Simon Bolivar,&quot; the legendary 19th century revolutionary leader.</p> <p>He said that through social programs, they reduced extreme deprivation in the country, raised GDP from $900 in 2005 to more than $4,000, and propelled 3 million Bolivians into the middle class.</p> <p>While approaching its 2025 bicentennial, Bolivia has a 100-year economic plan, said Morales, covering areas such as agriculture, mining, energy, and fuel. </p> <p>Morales said that Bolivia is opening up to trading with big markets like Turkey, China and Russia with agricultural exports and bilateral agreements.</p> <p>After his speech, Morales received a certificate of friendship from Ankara University, delivered by its rector, Erkan Ibis.</p> <p>Later today, Morales and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will hold a joint news conference. </p>