The Turkish Prime Minister says protests at Taksim Square and Gezi Park “will be over in 24 hours.” This comes hours after Erdogan met a group of activists, in attempt to start a dialog, and vowed to put an end to the gatherings.

“I have given orders to the interior minister,” Erdogan said. “This will be over in 24 hours.”

Earlier on Wednesday the Turkish Prime Minister spoke to a group of 11 people as part of the government’s attempt to listen to the demands of the demonstrators. The participants included artists, academics and students as well as the Interior Minister, Environment and Urban Minister, Tourism and Culture Minister and the vice chair of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP).

Erdoğan has warned that he would put an end to the gatherings, which he said were hurting Turkey’s image and economy.

Meanwhile, Turkey’s Ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) Deputy Chairman Hüseyin Celik has said a referendum might be held to decide whether to build barracks in Gezi Park or leave it as it is.  

• A Permanent Economic Emergency