ISTANBUL, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that Turkey is obliged to take new measures to curb the sharp rise in COVID-19 cases and fatalities.

Employees prepare food in the dining production facility at the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality in Ankara, on November 19, 2020. (Photo: AFP)

Speaking to reporters after Friday prayers in Istanbul, Erdogan noted that Turkey's Coronavirus Scientific Advisory Board has been carrying out all kinds of preparations and works to restrain the pandemic.

"We are now obliged and will take measures in line with the steps taken by our health ministry," Erdogan said.

Last week, the government reimposed partial lockdowns on weekends, closed restaurants and cafes, and introduced new working hours for the businesses.