Anadolu Agency: News in English, 98-02-11

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From: The Anadolu Agency Home Page at <http://www.anadoluajansi.gov.tr/>

11 FEB 1998

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - HUMANITARIAN AID COORDINATION COUNCIL MEETING ENDS

[03] TURKEY-US - WHITE HOUSE: ''AMERICAN PEOPLE KNOW THAT IF THERE WAS NO SUPPORT OF TURKISH GOVERNMENT, OUR MILITARY EXISTANCE IN GULF WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE''

[04] TURKEY IN BRIEF - FEBRUARY 11, 1998

[05] TURKEY-TRNC - TRNC ASSEMBLY APPROVES ''TURKISH-TRNC ASSOCIATION COUNCIL AGREEMENT''

[06] TURKEY-CHINA - CHINESE AMBASSADOR TO ANKARA: ''TRADE VOLUME BETWEEN TURKEY AND CHINA IS NOT ENOUGH IN RESPECT OF THE TWO COUNTRIES' POTENTIAL''

[07] TURKEY-INTERNAL - PARLIAMENTARY JOINT COMMISSION REPORTS REGARDING DISCUSSION OF PARLIAMENTARY IMMUNITIES OF 16 DEPUTIES AT THE END OF LEGISLATIVE TERM SUBMITTED TO PARLIAMENT

[08] TURKEY-UKRAINE-CRIMEA - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ DUE TO UKRAINE AND CRIMEA BETWEEN FEBRUARY 12 AND 13

[09] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (1)<B></B>

[10] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (2)<B></B>

[11] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND DEFENSE MINISTER SEZGIN: ''THERE MAY BE MOVEMENT IN BORDERS, BUT THERE IS NO MIGRATION''

[12] TURKEY-SOUTH KOREA - DAEWOO ELECTRONICS PLANNING TO INVEST IN TURKEY

[13] TURKEY-US - DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND DEFENSE MINISTER SEZGIN MEETS US AMBASSADOR PARRIS

[14] TURKEY-GEORGIA - TURKEY CONDEMNS ASSASINATION ATTEMPT TO GEORGIAN PRESIDENT SHEVARDNADZE

[15] TURKEY-BULGARIA - FOREIGN MINISTRY DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARY IRTEMCELIK TO LEAVE FOR SOFIA ON FEBRUARY 12

[16] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''LET NOBODY SAY THAT TURKEY IS IN ANYONE'S POCKET''

[17] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - STATE MINISTER GUREL: ''THINKING THAT IRAQ WOULD ATTACT TURKEY WITH CHEMICAL WEAPONS IS TO DREAM OF A CRISIS''

[18] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN (1) - IRAQ-UN TENSION - FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''ESTABLISHING OF A BUFFER ZONE IN NORTHERN IRAQ IS REGARDLESS OF QUESTION''

[19] TURKEY-FRANCE - PRESIDENT DEMIREL DUE TO FRANCE BETWEEN FEBRUARY 19 AND 20

[20] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN (2) - FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''WE HAVE NOT GONE BEYOND BULES AND PRINCIPLES OF NORTHERN WATCH OPERATION''

[21] TURKEY IN BRIEF (2) - FEBRUARY 11, 1998

[22] TURKEY-IRAQ - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ: ''PARLIAMENT TO DECIDE IF THERE COMES A MILITARY DEMAND FROM TURKEY CORNCERNING THE CRISIS IN THE GULF''

[23] TURKEY-IRAQ - FOREIGN MINISTER CEM BRIEFS PARLIAMENTARY FOREIGN MINISTRY COMMISSION ABOUT CRISIS

[24] TURKEY-IRAQ - IRAQ'S CHARGE D'AFFAIRES TO ANKARA ALSAMARAI: ''IRAQ ALWAYS SIDES WITH TURKEY, DOES NOT THINK TO CAUSE DAMAGE TO TURKEY AND WILL NOT THINK SO''

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL) TURKMEN FEAR
Turkey is worried about the fact that two of the nine biological and chemical weapon bases of Iraq which US plans to hit are in Turkmen region. According to the official information of US General Staff, three million Turkmen people live in Musul and Sırketıye where the two bases are present. The government is planning to send information and health aid to Turkmen people.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

SABAH (LIBERAL)

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

RADIKAL (LEFT)

YENİ YÜZYIL (LIBERAL)

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

FINANSAL FORUM (ECONOMY)

[02] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - HUMANITARIAN AID COORDINATION COUNCIL MEETING ENDS

Humanitarian Aid Coordination Council headed by State Minister Gurel convened the same day.

Addressing a statement after the meeting, Gurel stated that the humanitarian assistance programme aims to take measures in case of a possible migration from Iraq to Turkey.

Responding to a question, Gurel pointed out that they did not receive any news which says that a migration flow has started from Iraq to Turkey.

Noting that State of Emergency Regional Governor Aydın Arslan participated in the meting, Gurel added that working groups have been set up during the meeting.

State Minister Gurel said that the humanitarian aid will be provided by the Red Crescent and Turkish citizens living in the region will also benefit from the aid.

[03] TURKEY-US - WHITE HOUSE: ''AMERICAN PEOPLE KNOW THAT IF THERE WAS NO SUPPORT OF TURKISH GOVERNMENT, OUR MILITARY EXISTANCE IN GULF WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE''

Responding to questions regarding the Iraqi crisis, White House Spokesman Mike McCurry said that ''American people know that if there was no support of Saudi Arabia, Gulf countries and the Turkish government, our military existance in the region would not be possible.''

McCurry underlined the fact that these countries have extended logistical support to the US regarding the use of bases and air space for many years, adding that they also helped the US a lot in keeping Iraqi Head of State Saddam Hussein under control.

[04] TURKEY IN BRIEF - FEBRUARY 11, 1998

Ambassador Parris said after the meeting that Baykal and he made a very interesting and useful meeting and that they covered the latest developments.

Meanwhile, Abassador Parris met Second Chief of General Staff Gen. Cevik Bir before meeting with CHP Leader Baykal.

CHP Leader Deniz Baykal on Monday met British Ambassador to Ankara David Logan.

ANKARA - Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved the ''Military Training Agreement'' signed between Turkey and Hungary.

The existing friendship and cooperation are targetted to be further improved in accordance with the agreement signed between General Staff and Hungarian Defense Ministry.

The agreement, which was signed in Budapest on December 18, 1997, was published in the Official Gazzette and took effect on Wednesday.

The agreement also foresees ''mutual visits'' between two countries, ''sending observers to military exercises'' and ''organization of short- time training courses'' within the framework of cooperation in military training.

ANKARA - Interior Minister Murat Basesgioglu on Tuesday received Turhish- Georgian Interparliamentary Friedship Group delagation and Co-Chairman Rostom Dolidze.

Interior Minister Basesgioglu said in the meeting that Turkey has close relations with Georgia as it is a member of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC).

Basesgioglu said that BSEC member countries' target is to secure peace and tranquility in the Black Sea, adding that they suggested for establishment of Black Sea Police in the last BSEC meeting and that Turkey and Georgia signed Security Cooperation and Juridical Assistance Agreement.

Rostom Dolidze said two countries cooperate in interior issues.

Meanwhile, the guest delegation met Transportation Ministry Undersecretary Sureyya Yucel Ozden.

Sureyya Yucel Ozden said that Turkey and Georgia have joint projects in transportation and communication fields, adding that they will reevaluate those projects in the meeting.

Ozden said the project studies of the Kars-Tbilisi Railway Project, the Batum Airport's Reconstruction Project still continue.

ISTANBUL - Turkish Airlines (THY) will start its flights to Tataristan's capital of Kazan by February 16, it was reported on Wednesday.

THY said in a written statement that the Kazan-flights will be on every Mondays and Thursdays.

The plane will take off at 08.40 from Istanbul and will arrive in Kazan at 13.30.

The plane will take off at 14.30 from Kazan and will arrive in Istanbul at 17.30.

[05] TURKEY-TRNC - TRNC ASSEMBLY APPROVES ''TURKISH-TRNC ASSOCIATION COUNCIL AGREEMENT''

The TRNC Assembly in its second session covered the draft law regarding the issue. The draft was approved by majority of votes.

TRNC President Rauf Denktas said in a written statement that the approval of the draft law by the Assembly regarding the establishment of Association Council between Turkey and TRNC was ''a very positive development''.

The agreement regarding the establishment of an ''Association Council'' was signed by Foreign Minister Ismail Cem and TRNC Foreign and Defense Minister Taner Etkin in Lefkosa on August 6, 1997.

The agreement foresees ''economic and financial integration of two countries'', ''determining of measures for providing the integration in security, defense and foreign politics'', ''proposing the implementation of these measures to governments'' and ''implementation of these measures''.

[06] TURKEY-CHINA - CHINESE AMBASSADOR TO ANKARA: ''TRADE VOLUME BETWEEN TURKEY AND CHINA IS NOT ENOUGH IN RESPECT OF THE TWO COUNTRIES' POTENTIAL''

Addressing a statement to A.A correspondent, Kuangyı said that the visit of Foreign Minister Ismail Cem to China, which will start at the weekend, will be mainly of economic issues.

Chinese Ambassador Kuangyı recalled that there are economic agreements signed between the two countries and prevention of double taxation is one of them, so another agreement is not expected to be signed during Cem's visit to China.

Stressing that the trade volume of China in 1997 is 325 billion dollars, Chinese Ambassador pointed out that Turkey's share in this trade volume is only 600 million dollars. Kuangyı added that Turkish and Chinese businessmen have important roles to play in order to increase the existing trade volume.

Noting that the geographical distance between the two countries does not let the two countries know each other better, Chinese Ambassador said that Turkey is a very important country in respect of geopolitics.

Chinese Ambassador pointed out that the two countries play an active role in the Middle East and their interests do not contradict with each other's, adding that ''we wish to set up more strong and permanent relations with Turkey.''

Recalling that China opposes a military strike against Iraq, Chinese Ambassador stressed that they welcomed the visit of Foreign Minister Ismail Cem to Baghdad in order to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis between Iraq and the UN.

Foreign Minister Cem is expected to hold contacts in Beijing for the first two days and meet Chinese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Qian Qishen on Feb 16.

Cem will later proceed to Shanghai, which is the most important economic region of China, and seek for ways to improve economic cooperation between the two countries.

Chinese Ambassador to Ankara Yao Kuangyı said that Turkey and China can cooperate in the field of energy and Turkish and Chinese businessmen can make reciprocal investments in this field.

[07] TURKEY-INTERNAL - PARLIAMENTARY JOINT COMMISSION REPORTS REGARDING DISCUSSION OF PARLIAMENTARY IMMUNITIES OF 16 DEPUTIES AT THE END OF LEGISLATIVE TERM SUBMITTED TO PARLIAMENT

The names of parliamentarians whose parliamentary immunuties are foreseen to be lifted in the reports are as follows:

''Prime Minister Mesut Yılmaz, Hasan Kokmazcan, Yasar Dedelek, Ali Talip Ozdemir from Motherland Party (ANAP), Yasin Hatipoglu, Yucel Seckiner, Ahmet Derin, Mustafa Hasan Oz, Salih Kapusuz and Kahraman Emmıoglu from Welfare Party (RP), Nezir Buyukcengiz and Bekir Kumbul from Republican Peoples Party (CHP), Mustafa Ciloglu, Ismail Karakuyu and Hayri Dogan from True Path Party (DYP) and independent deputy Ibrahim Halil Celik.''

Parliamentary regulation foresees that these reports will be finalized within 10 days if there is no objection. The reports which are objected, will be discussed by the parliament.

[08] TURKEY-UKRAINE-CRIMEA - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ DUE TO UKRAINE AND CRIMEA BETWEEN FEBRUARY 12 AND 13

Prime Ministry Press Center said in a written statement that Prime Minister Yilmaz will pay a two-day official visit to Ukraine between February 12-13 and that he will meet with Ukranian President Leonid Kuchma, Prime Minister Pustovoytenko and Parliament Speaker Moroz on February 12 in Kiev.

The statement said that Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz will attend to signing ceremonies of the agreements to be signed between the two countries on February 13.

It said that Prime Minister Yilmaz will meet with Crimean President Franchuk and leaders of Crimean Tatars in Simperofol.

Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz will return to Turkey the same day.

[09] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (1)<B></B>

(Derived from Newsspot of the Turkish Directorate of General Press and Information.)

IRAN AND RUSSIA ASK TURKEY TO WITHDRAW FROM N.IRAQ
According to IRNA, the official Iranian news agency, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Mahmud Muhammedi has asked Ankara to draw back Turkish military forces, currently deployed in Northern Iraq to prevent a probable immigration wave to Turkey. Muhammedi claimed that the presence of Turkish soldiers could worsen the present critical situation in the region.

A high-ranking Russian Foreign Ministry official has in fact said that Turkey has increased tensions in northern Iraq by deploying units in the region.

Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz has stressed however that at the moment it is out of the question that Turkish Armed Forces are involved in a military incursion into Northern Iraq. Answering questions from the Turkish press at the Prime Ministry, Yilmaz said that if the Turkish Armed Forces had started an operation in the region to prevent migration from the region into Turkey, then the government would have announced this to the press. /Milliyet/

COOPERATION CALL TO GREECE
Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said yesterday that Turkey attached great importance to its relations with its neighbours in the Balkans. He added that he hoped that the positive atmosphere of these close relations, and that cooperation between Turkey and the Balkans states would be reflected in relations with Greece.

Yilmaz and Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit then received ambassdors from the Balkan states in Ankara. At the reception Yilmaz noted that the Balkans were a window for Turkey to open up to Europe. He said: "We hope that our good relations with the Balkan states will be reflected in our relations with Greece." /Milliyet/

KILIC MEETS WITH HIS PAKISTANI COUNTERPART
Air Forces Commander General Ilhan Kilic denied recent news about a migration wave towards Turkey. After talking to his Pakistani counterpart General Parvaiz Mehdi Qureshi now visiting Ankara, Kilic answered questions about the crisis in the Gulf region. Kilic said that the Turkish Armed Forces had taken the necessary measures to block a mass migration. /Milliyet/

"IRAQ NOT A THREAT TO TURKEY"

A high-ranking official of the Iraqi administration says in a statement to Milliyet daily newspaper that Iraq has never intended to threaten Turkey with chemical weapons. He added that they gave a guarantee to the Turkish people that "such a threat was out of the question". The official noted: "We do not have any chemical, biological or nuclear weapons. And even if we have, we will never use such weapons against our neighbour Turkey." He added that such rumours were invented by America in order to secure Turkey's support in a probable military operation in the region. The official said that Iraq would never be involved in a confrontation against Turkey. /Milliyet/

PKK PROPAGANDA AT RUSSIAN DUMA
The Geopolitical Issues Committee, directed by ultra-nationalist Vladimir Jirinovski from the lower house of the Russian Parliament or Duma, has been promoting the PKK terrorist organization in Parliament. The committee, which sent invitations to the embassies of various countries in Moscow and to the press announcing a discussion of Russian policies regarding the Near and Middle East, generated a great interest in a special meeting. However, those who participated in the meeting listened only to PKK propaganda. Rustem Broy, a member of the so-called Kurdish Parliament in-exile, also attended the meeting. A delegation from the Greek Embassy also demonstrated great interest in the issue. /Sabah/

PKK MILITANTS KILLED
It is reported that military units, which have taken strict measures along the border to prevent a possible immigration flow from northern Iraq into Turkey, launched an operation in the Metina region two nights ago and yesterday morning. During the operation, at least 20 PKK militants were killed. Officials noted that operations would continue. /Sabah/

LETTER FOR A JOINT INITIATIVE FROM FRANCE
French Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine sent a letter to Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem two days ago and said that France supported Turkey's efforts to solve the Iraqi crisis through diplomatic means. Vedrine stated that they wanted to launch a joint initiative together with Turkey. He also said that although UN control in Iraq should continue, the UN embargo imposed on Iraq should be eased. Cem sent a letter to Vedrine in which he pointed out that they were ready to act jointly with France and support the plan prepared by France to find a diplomatic solution to the Iraq crisis. /Sabah/

(continues)

[10] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (2)<B></B>

(Derived from Newsspot of the Turkish Directorate of General Press and Information.)

TURKISH BUSINESSMEN'S SUMMIT
The First Council, in which Turkish businessmen from the world over convened, was held in 1996. The Second Council meeting will be held between 30 April and 1 May, 1998, in Izmir. The slogan of the second World Turkish Businessmen's Council, jointly organized by the Turkish Foreign Trade Foundation (TDV), and the Development Foundation for the development of the Aegean economy (EGEV) is "Hand-in-Hand Towards the 2000s". Turkish President Suleyman Demirel and Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz will attend the Council meeting. /Hurriyet/

PARRIS MEETS WITH CINDORUK
US Ambassador to Ankara, Marc Parris, met with Chairman of the Democratic Turkey Party (DTP), Husamettin Cindoruk, yesterday. Replying to reporters' questions following the meeting, Parris declared that the meeting had been beneficial. Parris said: "The territorial integrity of Iraq has always been a matter of US policy and it will also be in the future". /Hurriyet/

CRISIS COMMITTEE FOR FAR EAST CRISIS
The Exports General Directorate of Foreign Trade Undersecretariat (DTM) has prepared an action plan against possible negative effects of the Far East crisis. The plan is called "Long-Term Exports Strategy and the year 1998". A "crisis committee" to provide coordination has also been established within the Undersecretariat. The committee will follow those sectors which could be affected by the crisis. /Hurriyet/

SPECIAL STRAITS SECURITY TEAM
A special 47 person team responsible to the Prime Ministry is being set up to guarantee security in the straits and administer maritime traffic. Former naval forces commander Guven Erkaya will be in charge of the new project that is a product of the Yilmaz coalition government.

The team will become more effective after meetings planned for this coming May, and security systems under the oversight of the team will be fully operative by October, 2000. /Hurriyet/

PRIVATIZATION PROGRESS
During the seven months that the coalition government has been in power, 26 privatization projects in all sectors except for the energy sector have been completed. Privatization projects worth 306 million dollars have been rubber stamped, and these plus projects planned for 1997 come to a grand total of 660 million dollars. /All papers/

TURKEY STANDS FIRM
As time runs out until the opening of the European Conference on March 12, Ankara is determined not to move an inch on its decision not to participate in the conference and is reiterating calls to the European Union to revise its stance rejecting Turkey's candidacy.

Speaking at a panel in Ankara on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Ismail Cem asserted that if the EU did not revise its decision not to include Turkey on the list of full membership candidates by the time of its June summit in Cardiff, relations with the EU would no longer be a priority on Turkey's foreign agenda and the bloc would no longer find "an enthusiastic Turkey, always ready for any kind of cooperation." /All papers/

COOK'S EU ARMS SALE POLICY
British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook's effort to promote a European "code of conduct" on arms sale were attacked once again when it became clear that France and Germany were moving ahead in their attempt to supply 145 combat helicopters, worth 2 billion pounds, to Turkey.

Cook launched the European version of "ethical foreign policy" when his country became the European Union term president in January. Negotiations regarding the "European arms sale code of conduct" are expected to take place next week in Brussels, with Britain hoping to gain the approval of the member states before the EU summit in June. /All papers/

EURODOLLAR EXPORTS BEGIN THIS WEEK
It is expected that Turkey will begin to export Eurodollar bonds within this week. Bankers note that exports are estimated to total USD 500 million, maturing after seven years. Turkey began with promotions held last Friday in London. The promotion of exports in Eurodollars, which will continue in three US cities, is being directed by J.P.Morgan and Salomon Smith Barney. /Sabah/

CASINO LIGHTS SWITCHED OFF TODAY
Following the Constitutional Court's refusal to repeal the law requiring the closure of casinos, all casinos will have to stop their activities today.

A number of the 79 casinos in hotels and holiday villages will be closed at midnight on Wednesday. The closures will be supervised by the officials of the Governor's Office. It is estimated that 20,000 people will lose their jobs. /All papers/

[11] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND DEFENSE MINISTER SEZGIN: ''THERE MAY BE MOVEMENT IN BORDERS, BUT THERE IS NO MIGRATION''

Responding to questions of journalists, Sezgin pointed out that ''there may be movement in the borders, because we aim not to live the difficulties which we lived in 1991, to keep a possible migration under control in a specific buffer zone and to continue our humanitarian aid efforts in that region. Turkish Armed Forces also takes the necessary measures, yet there is no migration.''

Responding to a question about the attitude of Turkey regarding Iraqi issue, Sezgin pointed out that ''our government took a decision and declared its decision. Turkey respects territorial integrity of Iraq and thinks that the latter should have sovereignty over Northern Iraq, it should be a respectable member of international society, pain should end in Iraq and the problem should be solved by peaceful ways. None of us wishes war, yet there is only one condition, which urges Iraq to abide by the UN resolutions and not to produce chemical weapons.''

[12] TURKEY-SOUTH KOREA - DAEWOO ELECTRONICS PLANNING TO INVEST IN TURKEY

Daewoo Electronics, which has a great market share in Asia by its electric and electronic household products, is planning to produce and sell long- lasting consumer goods and electronic household products in Turkey.

Daewoo Electronics gave start to its feasibility and market-analysis studies to determine the structure of supply and demand regarding the household items market in Turkey.

[13] TURKEY-US - DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND DEFENSE MINISTER SEZGIN MEETS US AMBASSADOR PARRIS

Sezgin received the US Ambassador to Ankara Marc Parris. Speaking during the meeting, Sezgin said they come together from time to time to exchange views about relations between the two countries. Sezgin said Turkey and the US fulfilled their responsibilities to preserve peace and stability.

Sezgin said on Gulf Crisis issue Turkey favored a peaceful and diplomatic solution, adding that the only way to achieve this was abiding of the UN resolutions.

Noting that permission should be given to control production and destruction of chemical and biological weapons and long range missiles and mass destruction weapons, Sezgin said ''not giving permission to the controls is a proof that Mr. Saddam has concerns. Saddam does not want being controlled despite poverty, and hunger which his people suffered for 7-8 years.''

When recalled that some of Iraq's chemical weapons were in Turkmen region and if the US Ambassador would have any demand to this end, Sezgin said ''every necessary measure would be taken to this end to prevent reflection of this to Turkey and to prevent any harm to the regional people in a possible activity.''

Parris in his part responded to questions related with Gulf crisis and said ''I should stress that the US has not decided to use force. We are sensitive towards Turkmen region and other regions and we hold talks to this end. We believe that crisis could be solved through peaceful ways. Yet, Saddam has to abide by the UN resolutions. The key of a peaceful solution is in the hands of Saddam.''

Sezgin later received Pakistani Air Forces Commander Gen. Parvaiz Mehdi Qureshi who is currently in Turkey as the official guest of Turkish Air Forces Commander Ilhan Kilic.

Addressing the meeting Sezgin said there were friendly relations between Pakistan and Turkey.

The guest Commander Qureshi in his part said that Turkish-Pakistani relations were sincere and did not depend on interests.

When asked about the Gulf Crisis, Qureshi said that ''if there is a diplomatic solution, this would be good for everybody. War will not be good for innocent people and for the stability of the region.''

[14] TURKEY-GEORGIA - TURKEY CONDEMNS ASSASINATION ATTEMPT TO GEORGIAN PRESIDENT SHEVARDNADZE

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Necati Utkan addressing the weekly news conference said Turkey expressed ''regret'' over the assasination attempt.

Utkan said, ''Turkey calls on international community to extend necessary support to Georgia to find the responsible ones this end.'' Utkan also said President Suleyman Demirel called Shevardnadze on the phone immediately after the attack and sent ''get well soon'' message.

Utkan also said Parliament Speaker Hikmet Cetin, Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz and Foreign Minister Ismail Cem sent messages to Shevardnadze and condemned the attack.

Utkan said Turkey regarded Shevardnadze as the future of Georgia and a guarantee for the multi-lateral cooperation and stability of Caucasian region to further improve Turkish-Georgian relations.

[15] TURKEY-BULGARIA - FOREIGN MINISTRY DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARY IRTEMCELIK TO LEAVE FOR SOFIA ON FEBRUARY 12

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Necati Utkan said in a weekly press briefing that the ''humanitarian, social and real estate'' issues will be covered during Turkish delegation's visit to Bulgaria between February 12 and 13.

Spokesman Utkan said that the decision regarding the establishment of a joint working group between two countries was taken during Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz's official visit to Bulgaria between December 4-5, 1997.

Necati Utkan said that bilateral political consultations and exchange of opinions regarding regional issues will be made during the delegation's contacts in Bulgaria.

[16] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''LET NOBODY SAY THAT TURKEY IS IN ANYONE'S POCKET''

Responding to questions of journalists about Iraq-UN crisis, President Demirel stated that the two people from the US Military Assistance Institution namely Jusmat who visited him were not soldiers, but civilians.

''I called on Sunday Iraqi Head of State Saddam Hussein to abide fully with the UN Security Council Resolutions,'' said Demirel responding to another question.

''I wish this crisis can be solved without resorting to war, yet we can not control everything,'' said Demirel, adding that he agrees with the official statement of the goverment.

[17] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - STATE MINISTER GUREL: ''THINKING THAT IRAQ WOULD ATTACT TURKEY WITH CHEMICAL WEAPONS IS TO DREAM OF A CRISIS''

Addressing a news conference staged in Premiership building, Gurel recalled that Council of Ministers decided to extend support to those people who were forced to leave their homes in a probable crisis that may erupt in Iraq. Gurel said Red Crescent would fulfil this duty and that every necessary support would be given to Red Crescent in this respect. He said a ''High Coordination Council'' was set up in Ankara and a ''Sub Coordination Council'' was set up in Emergency Rule Region to this aim. Gurel also said measures were taken against a probable activity in the border provinces.

Noting that the allegations that immigration has started in Northern Iraq were baseless, Gurel said Turkey would give the aid to those people who were forced to leave their homes in a possible crisis in Northern Iraq.

Responding to a question, Gurel expressed hope that the conflict would be solved without a military intervention in Iraq.

When asked if Turkey made preparations against any probable activity across the border, Gurel said that Turkey was in a position to take every necessary measures to provide its border security.

Responding to a question if any contact was held with Iraqi Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) on humanitarian aid issue, Gurel said ''we will act in an understanding of cooperation. We will cooperate with the ruling aspects in the region.''

Gurel said that Health Ministry took necessary measures against any threat of biologic and chemical weapons.

[18] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN (1) - IRAQ-UN TENSION - FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''ESTABLISHING OF A BUFFER ZONE IN NORTHERN IRAQ IS REGARDLESS OF QUESTION''

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Necati Utkan told a weekly news conference that in interministerial humanitarian coordination council which convened on Tuesday, it has been revealed that there was no uneasiness in Northern Iraq. ''Establishing a buffer zone in Northern Iraq is regardless of question,'' Utkan added.

Utkan stressed that in case the UN-Iraqi crisis turn into a military clash, several people in Northern Iraq may be forced to leave their homes, adding that ''our main aim is to help people on the spot in such cases.''

Utkan stressed that these activities which were planned to be carried out to this end would be realized with Turkey's own facilities and added that civilian institutions and organizations would play the main role.

Recalling that Turkey favored the crisis to end through peaceful means, Utkan said ''we take measures against all developments which may erupt apart from our wishes. I can absolutely say that we are in a secure atmosphere.''

General Staff Press and Public Relations Department Chairman Colonel Husnu Dag also participated in the news conference to evaluate the recent situation particularly in Northern Iraq and for technical evaluation of future measures.

Responding to a question if Turkish soldiers entered to Northern Iraq and if there was an immigration wave or not, Dag said ''any mass immigration is regardless of question so far, also there is no such an indication.''

"The Turkish armed forces have not carried out operations in Northern Iraq for any reason whatsoever,'' Husnu Dag said, stressing that Turkey did not have an intention or plan to establish a ''buffer zone'' in case of a mass immigration activity depending of the escalationg of UN-Iraq crisis.

Dag said, ''if a mass immigration activity forwarded to Turkey is in question, Turkey, in a bid to reduce the negative aspects of it to the minumum level, will perform a humanitarian support operation in cooperation with Iraqi Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) and Turkish authorities and will install humanitarian support centers, and necessary support to the immigrants will be provided from these regions.''

Colonel Dag said Turkish Armed Forces will continue its struggle against terrorism with determination and within the framework of principles of democratic law.

[19] TURKEY-FRANCE - PRESIDENT DEMIREL DUE TO FRANCE BETWEEN FEBRUARY 19 AND 20

President Suleyman Demirel will be accompanied by State Ministers Rifat Serdaroglu and Isin Celebi and Culture Minister Istemihan Talay.

Demirel will meet Chirac at the Elysee Palace on February 19 and then with French Economy Minister, Culture Minister and Minister Responsible for European Affairs the same day.

Demirel will then address a conference titled ''Turkey In 2000's'' at the French Institution of International Foreign Politics (IFRI).

President Demirel will then participate in the official dinner that Chirac will give in his honour the same day.

President Demirel will receive French Prime Minister Lionel Jospen and then will attend to the ceremony to be held his honour at Paris Municipality Palace by Governor Jean Tiberi on February 20.

Demirel will return to Turkey the same day after holding a press briefing for French reporters.

The latest developments regarding the Gulf crisis, Turkish-European Union (EU) relations, Turkish-French relations and regional issues will be covered during President Demirel's official contacts in France.

The issue of ''Participation of Turkey in the European Conference to be held in Britain'' is expected to be put again on the agenda during the meetings between Demirel and Chirac and Pierre Moscovichi, Minister Responsible for European Affairs.

Turkey earlier announced that it will not enter into a political dialogue and will not participate in the European Conference, if the Luxembourg decisions are not reevaluated.

France had stated that the European Conference would lose its importance if Turkey does not participate in the European Conference.

The latest developments in Caucasus and in the Balkans are also expected to be taken up in detail during the bilateral contacts.

A statement of intention regarding the realization of a ''strategical cooperation'' between the two countries is expected to be signed during Demirel's official visit.

Diplomatic sources said that the cooperation will cover the economic, political and cultural issues.

The foreign trade volume between Turkey and France increased 20 percent to 11 billion francs from 9.2 billion francs during the first half of the last year compared to previous period figures.

Paris Trade Consulate officials told A.A correspondent that Turkey's exportation to France during January-June 1997 period rose 19 percent to 3.5 billion francs compared tp previous period in 1996.

During the same period last year Turkey's importation from France increased 20 percent to 7.5 billion francs.

The deficit in the foreign trade between two countries reached four billion francs from 3.3 billion francs between January-June 1997.

[20] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN (2) - FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''WE HAVE NOT GONE BEYOND BULES AND PRINCIPLES OF NORTHERN WATCH OPERATION''

Utkan and General Staff Military Spokesman Colonel Husnu Dag jointly responded to questions regarding the UN-Iraq crisis during a weekly news conference.

When recalled the possibility of turning the UN-Iraq crisis into a US operation and the speculations on the situation of Incirlik Base, Utkan said the operations carried out from the Base in question were within the context of Northern Watch operation.

Utkan said this operation had several specific rules and principles and that implementation of these depended on General Staff. ''These have limits, we have not went beyond the limits,'' he said.

General Staff Military Spokesman Colonel Husnu Dag in his part said there was not a construction activity in Incirlik Base forwarded to Northern Iraq as it was claimed in several press organizations.

Recalling that runways are under upkeep from time to time, Dag said ''activities in Incirlik at the time are carried out within the regular construction activities. Upkeep and repairment activities are performed in the Base. The US had taken permission from Turkey to this end. News reports apart from this are speculative.''

Responding to a question if there was an increase in number of US planes in Incirlik Base, Dag said ''any increase in number of planes and daily flights in the base is regardless of question.''

Utkan said if tension between Iraq and the UN turn into a clash, the period after crisis would be very important for Turkey.

Pointing out that contacts with many countries, mainly with Iraq, were underway on the issue, Utkan said, ''the crisis is focused on the UN Security Council resolutions. Our attention is focused on the crisis which we did not have chance to influence.''

''Crisis in Iraq would end absolutely negatively or positively,'' Utkan said, adding that ''what will happen after it is finished? This is what interests and concerns us diplomatically.''

Utkan mentioned that Turkey would not tolerate the region to remain an ''instable'' region after a possible operation, adding that Ankara takes into consideration the incident through ''security'' and ''cooperation'' dimensions.

Utkan reiterated that Turkey attributed importance to the situation after the crisis. ''This period is more important than the crisis,'' he added.

FM Spokesman said that if there was cooperation and security in the Middle East, there would certainly be a stable peace.

[21] TURKEY IN BRIEF (2) - FEBRUARY 11, 1998

State Ministry gave information about the 11th Term Meeting of Turkish- Pakistani Joint Economic Commission (JEC) in which Turkey is represented by State Minister Burhan Kara.

State Ministry said that Kara met with Pakistani President Refik Tara, Industry Minister Makbul Siddiki and Finance Minister Sartaj Aziz.

Kara said that Turkish businessmen have one or two problems, adding that he hope the commercial cooperation between the two countries will be further improved if those problems will be overcomed.

ANKARA - Energy and Natural Resources Minister Cumhur Ersumer said on Wednesday that Turkey condemns the assasination attempt to Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze.

Minister Ersumer received the Turkish-Georgian Interparliamentary Friendship Group Co-Chairman Rostom Dolidze and the accompanying delegation.

Condemning the assasination attempt to Shevardnadze, Ersumer said in the meeting that he hoped the assailants will be found in a short time.

Pointing out that the foundation of the Deriner Dam to be constructed on Coruh River will be laid on April 18, 1998 by a ceremony to which Shevardnadze will also attend, Ersumer said that the Coruh region has a vital and considerable importance for Turkey.

Ersumer stated that a delegation from the Ministry of Energy will leave for Georgia to introduce Baku-Ceyhan pipeline project.

[22] TURKEY-IRAQ - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ: ''PARLIAMENT TO DECIDE IF THERE COMES A MILITARY DEMAND FROM TURKEY CORNCERNING THE CRISIS IN THE GULF''

Addressing his party group meeting, Prime Minister Yilmaz said that the Parliament will give the positive or negative response to a request for military support from Turkey apart from ''Northern Watch Operation'', stating that there was no military operation to Iraq.

Briefing the deputies about the Gulf Crisis, Yilmaz said in the crisis, the government covered an approach which will not damage Turkey's independence, and interests as well as democracy.

Yilmaz pointed out that Turkey would absolutely be affected in case the crisis turn into a war, adding that with a determined and consistent government, Turkey would be affected from the crisis in the minumum level.

Yilmaz said although there is a possibility of war at any time, there was no panic in Turkey, adding that no activity was affected by this issue.

Yilmaz said nobody should be suspicious that Turkey would cover a wise policy to this end. He said Turkey suffered a lot from the Gulf War in 1991, adding that promises to compensate the loses were not fulfilled.

Noting that Iraq's territorial integrity was risked and northern part of this country was pushed to uncertainty, Yilmaz said lack of authority in Northern Iraq turned the region into a fertile ''marshy land'' for the separatist terrorism forwarded to Turkey.

Yilmaz said Turkey called on Iraq to abide by the UN Security Council resolutions and in return for this she wanted the UN to take steps to lift the embargo imposed on Iraq for years.

Prime Minister Yilmaz said, ''our army has not entered to a cross border operation now. We are not hiding anything from our people. We have already disclosed to the public that if necessary, Turkey would initiate a cross border operation on Iraqi territory to provide a humanitarian aid to people who participate in a possible immigration.''

''The policy which our government will follow at this point is a balanced policy that is determined very well,'' Yilmaz said, adding that the government is precautious over a military operation and takes measures evaluating all possibilities.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and State Minister Bulent Ecevit said Iraq may open its gates to control if the UN Special Commission responsible for destruction of Iraq's mass destruction weapons change its structure.

Addressing Democractic Left Party (DSP) group meeting Ecevit mentioned about recent developments regarding Iraqi crisis and possible dangers. Recalling that Iraq, which was devastated completely during Gulf war, mended its installations and buildings in a very short time, Ecevit said ''because Iraq has a very big technology accumulation.''

Mentioning about Turkey's loses due to Gulf war, Ecevit said the government thought about what could happen after the crisis which gained a new dimension now. He said the idea of operation should be given up as all the problems that may erupt after it would give harm to Turkey and he stressed that Iraq's integration after a possible war would be more difficult.

Ecevit said if the US enters to a war without taking into account its results, that was a very grave situation.

Ecevit said Turkey wanted peace for all the people in the region, adding Turkey was also closely interested in Turkmens. He also said bombing of chemical weapon depots would result in very dangerous outcomes for the regional people.

[23] TURKEY-IRAQ - FOREIGN MINISTER CEM BRIEFS PARLIAMENTARY FOREIGN MINISTRY COMMISSION ABOUT CRISIS

Foreign Minister Cem participated in Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Commission meeting to brief about his visit to Baghdad on the Iraq-UN crisis.

Commission Chairman Murat Karayalcin, addressing the opening of the meeting, said that they supported government policies which said Turkey should be excluded in case a war erupts. Karayalcin said they welcomed Cem's visit to Baghdad, adding that the visit was important to show that Turkey was a country assuming an active role in the region.

Karayalcin also expressed pleasure that the government said Parliament would decide if usage of Incirlik Base is in question.

Foreign Minister Cem said that the policy of the government on the crisis issue was open and clear, adding that they were in agreement.

Cem said efforts were underway to prevent the crisis to pave way for a war, and stressed that contacts were held with all the concerned countries to this end. Reiterating that all the UN resolutions should be implemented fully, Cem said Turkey would continue its contributions for the participation of Iraq to international community and to lift the sanctions in the possible shortest time in case a peace atmosphere is provided.

Stressing that Turkey should consider its own interests in this process, Cem said that ''the Middle East is a very sensitive region for us which we share the history.''

Cem pointed out that Turkey has the most powerful economy and the most powerful armed forces and the most rooted democracy of the region.

[24] TURKEY-IRAQ - IRAQ'S CHARGE D'AFFAIRES TO ANKARA ALSAMARAI: ''IRAQ ALWAYS SIDES WITH TURKEY, DOES NOT THINK TO CAUSE DAMAGE TO TURKEY AND WILL NOT THINK SO''

Alsamarai said the recent crisis stemmed from the palaces, adding that no such weapons were existent in the palaces. He said the incident was an honor and sovereignity question.

Speaking during a visit to Ankara Trade Chambers (ATO) Chairman Sinan Aygun, Alsamarai said Iraq favored peace and wanted to solve the question through dialogue yet the other side wanted war.

Mentioning about Iraqi-Turkish relations, Alsamarai said Iraq was always with Turkey. He said several news reports appeared recently in media claiming that Iraq would hit Malatya, Konya, Kayseri and Ankara if it wants, adding that these were not true because Iraq regarded these cities as its.

Alsamarai said ''brother will not be an enemy of brother. Others will go, but we will be here forever. We are lasting.''

Responding to a question of Aygun, Alsamarai said there were no chemical and mass destruction weapons in Iraq and that allegations to this end should not be taken into account.

Stressing that Iraq did not want war and favored peace, Alsamarai said the US and Britain created a chaos on the issue.

When asked if Iraq has mass destruction weapons in Turkmen region Alsamarai said these allegations were not true and reiterated that the recent crisis erupted due to palaces.

Responding to another question, Alsamarai said both Britain and the US has aim on the region's oil beds. This was the aim. He said their aim was to control the oil to their interests, not to the interests of the region.

ATO Chairman Sinan Aygun said being a world citizen, they were opposed to the war and being a Turkish citizen, they favored positive relations with the neighbors.

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