There is nothing to worry about

State Minister Sukru Sina Gurel

The 77-year-old prime minister's health has aroused great concern in Turkey, as he is seen as holding together Turkey's fragile ruling coalition.

The coalition, made up of three competing parties, is trying to pull the country out of a severe recession and has been pushing for a $16bn IMF-backed recovery plan.

Mr Ecevit's doctor, Turgut Zileli, told reporters in front of Baskent Hospital that the prime minister would undergo tests in hospital for several days, but that his condition was not life threatening.

Surgery possible

At first Mr Ecevit's aides said he had the flu, but Dr Zileli said the prime minister was suffering from an ulcer and that earlier in the day he had complained of breathing problems.

"There's a possibility of surgery but I cannot say anything certain yet. He is not in intensive care, he is in a normal ward... We suspect some stomach and intestine problems," Dr Zileli said.

The doctor said Mr Ecevit had wanted to tell the media about his condition, but that doctors would not allow him to make a statement.

The prime minister cancelled a meeting he was supposed to have with his Democratic Left Party earlier in the day, Turkish NTV television reported.

"There is nothing to worry about," State Minister Sukru Sina Gurel said.

Mr Ecevit has served as Turkey's prime minister five times over the past four decades.