Anadolu Agency: News in English, 98-05-22

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

22 MAY 1998

CONTENTS

[01] MILITARY COOPERATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ISRAEL - THE US SUPPORTS THE MISSILE DEFENSE COOPERATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ISRAEL

[02] TURKEY SELLS FOOD WORTH 216 MILLION US DOLLARS TO IRAQ IN FRAMEWORK OF FOOD IN RETURN FOR OIL AGREEMENT

[03] NATURAL GAS TRANSPORTS FROM IRAN TO TURKEY TO START IN 1999

[04] GENERAL KARADAYI, THE CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF IN ST. PETERSBURG: - ''THERE IS NO PROBLEM BETWEEN TURKEY AND RUSSIA, OUR RELATIONS DEVELOP RAPIDLY''

[05] TURKEY AND THE UKRAINE SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENTS

[06] KUCHMA, THE UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT, HOSTS DINNER IN HONOR OF DEMIREL

[07] SIX PEOPLE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION WITH ARMED ATTACK ON BIRDAL

[08] FLOOD DISASTER IN TURKEY - HEAVY SHOWERS CAUSE DISASTER IN MANY PARTS OF TURKEY - A CRISIS DESK LEAD BY ECEVIT, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER WAS SET UP - A CHILD DIES IN LANDSLIDE IN YIGILCA COUNTY OF BOLU - 3 PEOPLE DROWN IN FLOOD WATERS AND ONE PERSON MISSING IN HATAY - 200 PERSONS STRANDED IN YENICE OF KARABUK - HIGHWAYS AND RAILWAYS REMAIN CLOSED TO TRAFFIC BETWEEN ANKARA-KARABUK - A FAMILY INCLUDING 7 PEOPLE WAIT TO BE RESCUED IN DUZCE - RESCUE HELICOPTERS OF THE ARMED FORCES CONTINUE RESCUE ACTIVITIES

[09] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (1)

[10] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (2)

[11] KOSGEB, FOREIGN MINISTRY AND DEIK ORGANIZE A BUSINESS VISIT TO ISRAEL BETWEEN MAY 25-29

[12] IRANIAN BUSINESSMEN IN VAN - BUSINESSMEN FROM VAN AND IRAN DECIDE TO CONSTRUCT TWO FACTORIES, ONE IN IRAN AND THE OTHER IN TURKEY

[13] TWO RELIEFS OF THE HERACLES SARCOPHAGUS FROM PERGE, ANTALYA BACK IN TURKEY - THE TURKISH HENKEL COMPANY WILL DELIVER RELIEFS ON MAY 27 TO CETIN, THE SPEAKER OF THE PARLIAMENT

[14] TURKISH-UKRAINIAN JOINT STATEMENT ISSUED

[15] TURKEY CONDEMNS THE SPEAKER OF THE GREEK PARLIAMENT

[16] TURKEY CONDEMNS THE SPEAKER OF THE GREEK PARLIAMENT

[17] SIX PEOPLE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION WITH ARMED ATTACK ON BIRDAL, CHIEF OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS ASSOCIATION

[18] KAZAN APPLIES TO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION FOR RP, CLOSED BY THE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT

[19] TURKEY IN BRIEF - MAY 22, 1998

[20] PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ OPENS THE ADIYAMAN AIRPORT FOR SERVICES

[21] HUMAN RIGHTS COORDINATOR SUPREME COUNCIL MEETING - STATE MINISTER HIKMET SAMI TURK: - ''PREPARING A REPORT TO DESTROY OR HIDE THE EVIDENCE OF TORTURE WILL BE ACCEPTED AS A REASON FOR INCREASING PENALTIES''

[22] FOREIGN COMPANIES COMPETE FOR THE AKKUYU NUCLEAR POWER PLANT AT MERSIN

[01] MILITARY COOPERATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ISRAEL - THE US SUPPORTS THE MISSILE DEFENSE COOPERATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ISRAEL

Responding to a question claiming that Turkey and Israel will develop new anti-ballistic missile systems with the approval of the Pentagon, Bacon said, ''We didn't receive such information from both countries''.

Pointing out that Israil should get permission before beginning a joint programme with an another country related to the American-made weapons and military equipment, Bacon added, ''Israil didn't apply for such a permission, but as we stated before the US encourages the strategical cooperation between Turkey and Israel.''

Bacon stressed that an alliance isn't mentioned between Turkey and Israel, but the two countries are in strategical cooperation.

He added that the US also takes part in the joint military practices with the other countries such as Egypt and Greece, noting ''we try to be productive and work at treating equally these relations with other countries.''

[02] TURKEY SELLS FOOD WORTH 216 MILLION US DOLLARS TO IRAQ IN FRAMEWORK OF FOOD IN RETURN FOR OIL AGREEMENT

According to the United Nations' statistical data, Turkey exported food worth 98.9 million US dollars to Iraq in the first six month period of the agreement. Turkey and Iraq signed 56 agreements for the second six month period and in this scope Turkey sold food worth 67.9 million US dollars to Iraq in the second period.

During the third six month period 36 agreements were signed between Turkey and Iraq, therefore food worth 49.6 million US dollars was sent to Iraq by Turkey. The third period will end on July 4, 1998.

The United Nations Security Council which imposes an embargo on Iraq since the Gulf War, allowed Iraq to sell oil in return for food, medicine and medical equipment with the decision No. 986 in 1995.

[03] NATURAL GAS TRANSPORTS FROM IRAN TO TURKEY TO START IN 1999

A high ranking official of the Foreign Ministry said that transports of three billion cubic meters of Iranian natural gas will start in the coming year.

The same official pointed out that the natural gas which will be purchased from Iran won't be Turkmen but Iranian natural gas, adding that feasibility studies were underway for the transports of the Turkmen natural gas.

The official said there are two possible ways to transport the Turkmen natural gas to Turkey, one is the pipeline which will pass under the Caspian Sea and the other one could be via Iran.

Turkey, within the framework of the agreement signed in 1996, plans to get 10 billion cubic meters of natural gas from Iran up until 2010.

The US opposes the transports of the natural gas in question due to the embargo imposed on Iran and defends that such transports will further strengthen Iran.

[04] GENERAL KARADAYI, THE CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF IN ST. PETERSBURG: - ''THERE IS NO PROBLEM BETWEEN TURKEY AND RUSSIA, OUR RELATIONS DEVELOP RAPIDLY''

Addressing the journalists after the meeting, General Karadayi said that the memorandum of mutual understanding which was signed by him and his Russian counterpart on Wednesday, will add good military relations to the commercial and political relations between the two states.

Noting, ''there is no problem between Turkey and Russia and our relations develop rapidly,'' General Karadayi said that he hopes a closer cooperation will be set up between Russia and the NATO.

General Karadayi pointed out that the NATO's expansion towards Eastern Europe don't target a third country, adding ''I think that the relations between Russia and the NATO in the future will be at the level of closer cooperation and contacts.''

[05] TURKEY AND THE UKRAINE SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENTS

Demirel, currently on an official visit to the Ukraine, signed several cooperation agreements at the Mariinsky Palace within the framework of his visit.

Demirel and Leonid Kuchma, the Ukrainian President, signed the joint statement which was issued related to the talks. The sides signed nine agreements covering such topics as the defense industry, medicine, trade, education and investments, environment, financial cooperation and protection and promotion of reciprocal investments.

Demirel and Kuchma later staged a joint news conference. Demirel expressed pleasure about the visit he paid to the Ukraine which he identified as a ''friendly and neighbor'' country. Demirel said that the legal basis of the relations between the two countries was concluded with the agreements signed.

Demirel said that he came to the Ukraine with a large delegation, adding that this was the indication of the importance Turkey attributed to the visit. ''We want more cooperation,'' Demirel added.

President Demirel stressed that the ''free trade agreement'' was the only lacking agreement between the two countries and that Kuchma and he agreed to reach an outcome in this respect.

Recalling that the Tatars living in the Crimea received oppression and were forced to leave their homes, Demirel said that the Ukraine permitted the Tatars to return their homes.

''The Crimean Tatars are a bridge of friendship between the Ukraine and Turkey,'' said Demirel, adding that Turkey did her best to overcome the sufferings of the Tatars who experienced the problems of being refugees and returning to their homes.

Kuchma said that the talks were constructive and that they took up bilateral, regional and international issues.

Responding to the questions of reporters at the press conference, Demirel said, ''we worked out the Caspian oil problem. Of course this oil isn't ours or the Ukraine's. Yet both the owners of the oil and the concerned companies are interested in the Baku-Ceyhan to bring the oil to the world markets.''

Kuchma, responding to the same question said that the Ukraine needed oil, adding that they wanted to participate in the project. Kuchma said, ''we aren't against this even if it is via Novorossiysk.''

When asked about the context of the Defense Industry Cooperation Agreement, Demirel said that Turkey needed a 150 billion US dollar defense industry in the next 30 years.

The Ukrainian President Kuchma, when asked about the details of the cooperation in the energy field, said the first issue here was the transports of energy to Turkey from the Ukraine. Kuchma said that this issue was discussed.

Kuchma expressed willingness to participate in the construction of power plants, pointing out ''we have great experience on this subject, we want to participate in the tenders. We will construct the Ceyhan-Samsun Oil Pipeline.''

Kuchma also said they were against terrorism, adding that Turkey didn't complain about the Ukraine on this subject.

[06] KUCHMA, THE UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT, HOSTS DINNER IN HONOR OF DEMIREL

Addressing the dinner which Leonid Kuchma, the Ukrainian President, hosted in his honor, Demirel said he was pleased to see that democracy in young the Ukraine was founded on a solid basis. ''We have confidence that the Ukraine is stepping towards a shining future by seeking stability, affluence and tranquility.''

Demirel said the world was going through a period in which history brought golden opportunities for the establishment of a more democratic and integrated Europe. Demirel said Europe was restructuring, adding ''we believe that there should be no place for new walls in the new architecture of Europe.''

Demirel noted that Turkey and the Ukraine, which are located in the two sides of the Black Sea basin, not only shared the same geography but at the same time shared a joint future that they would construct together.

Demirel said that both countries have the necessary political will to improve bilateral relations, adding ''our potentials, as the two large states of the Black Sea basin, our geographical closeness and cooperation between the Turkish-Ukrainian people in changing world conditions, formed the appropriate atmosphere for improving bilateral relations.''

Pointing out that Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) was a pioneering initiative and a product of the joint dreams aimed at the future, Demirel said ''our joint efforts on the basis of cooperation will have a determining role in the construction of our region's shining future.''

''It shouldn't be forgotten that the next century will be a century in which motorways will encompass the Black Sea, telecommunications and fiber optical networks will be concluded, the Black Sea basin will be linked to the Mediterranean basin and in which the Black Sea will be integrated with the whole world with its dynamic markets and improving economies,'' Demirel said.

Demirel concluded his words by saying, ''the sea on which we share coasts, unites us in a joint fate. We regard the Ukraine as a partner with which we can work together to turn the Black Sea into a region of peace, stability and affluence.''

[07] SIX PEOPLE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION WITH ARMED ATTACK ON BIRDAL

Two weapons were seized together with these six people. It was reported that there was a sergeant among those who were taken into custody.

Akin Birdal, head of the independent Human Rights Association, was shot in the leg and chest on May 12 while in his office in Ankara. The two suspected gunmen escaped.

[08] FLOOD DISASTER IN TURKEY - HEAVY SHOWERS CAUSE DISASTER IN MANY PARTS OF TURKEY - A CRISIS DESK LEAD BY ECEVIT, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER WAS SET UP - A CHILD DIES IN LANDSLIDE IN YIGILCA COUNTY OF BOLU - 3 PEOPLE DROWN IN FLOOD WATERS AND ONE PERSON MISSING IN HATAY - 200 PERSONS STRANDED IN YENICE OF KARABUK - HIGHWAYS AND RAILWAYS REMAIN CLOSED TO TRAFFIC BETWEEN ANKARA-KARABUK - A FAMILY INCLUDING 7 PEOPLE WAIT TO BE RESCUED IN DUZCE - RESCUE HELICOPTERS OF THE ARMED FORCES CONTINUE RESCUE ACTIVITIES

In Zonguldak the Filyos Stream overflowed and many houses and shops remained under flood waters in the province. The flood caused landslides in Alaplı and Kilimli Counties. No trains were operating between Zonguldak and Karabuk. Meanwhile two children who were inundated by the flood waters are still missing in the province.

The Turkish Coal Board stopped mining production temporarily in the Black Sea region after the three days of heavy showers, which threaten the mines.

The Bartin River overflowed after the heavy rainfall which started two days ago. Many houses and shops remained under flood waters in Bartin. Telephones and electricity are cut off and highways are closed to traffic in the province.

The Arac River overflowed in Karabuk and the water level rose to one metre in the city center. Cemal Ayman, the Governor of Karabuk, said that they set up a crisis desk. He added that communications couldn't be made with some counties. Many bridges and parts of the highways are heavily damaged by the flood. A total of 200 people are stranded in Yenice County of the province.

Many houses and croplands remained under flood waters in several counties of Bolu Province. Hayrul Sahin (aged 12) lost his life because of the landslide caused by heavy showers. Two people were wounded in the same incident. A family including 7 people were stranded on their house's roof in Duzce County of the province. The Navy Command sent two helicopters to the region, but the helicopters couldn't land because of the bad weather conditions.

The flood disaster also affected Amasya and the surroundings. The Yesilırmak and Cekerek Rivers overflowed and the croplands were damaged by flood waters. Kemal Nehrozoglu, the Governor of Amasya, stated that a commission was set up to determine the damages.

The Mediterranian region was also among regions affected by the heavy showers. The Altincay Stream overflowed in Antakya and caused three people to drown. Another person is still missing. Ten houses and 10 thousand donum of croplands were damaged in Ceyhan County.

A crisis desk lead by Bulent Ecevit, the Deputy Prime Minister, was set up in Ankara. The Chief of General Staff also set up a Natural Disaster Coordination Center.

Seven rescue helicopters belonging to the Armed Forces, continue rescue activities in the affected areas.

The Red Crescent Organization sent the necessary materials including blankets, tents and food with the Air Force cargo planes.

The Health Ministry gave medicine to the Red Crescent to convey to the disaster areas.

The Barbaros frigate carrying commandos, doctors and medical equipment and three assault boats arrived in Bartin Province and began to evacuate the people who were stranded by the flood waters.

[09] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (1)

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

DEMIREL IN THE UKRAINE
President Suleyman Demirel went to the Ukraine yesterday for a three-day official visit. Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister, Ahat Andican, the Minister of State, Ibrahim Gurdal, the Minister of Tourism and many bureaucrats, businessmen and journalists are accompanying Demirel.

President Demirel and his accompanying delegation were welcomed by the Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma in Kiev. Later Demirel and Kuchma held a joint press conference and said that they would mainly discuss cooperation in energy and oil. /Milliyet/

FLOOD CATASTROPHE: 11 DEAD
The flood in the Bartin, Devrek and Caycuma Districts of Zonguldak, and in the Yenice District of Karabuk in the Western Black Sea Region has caused massive damage. In response to the catastrophe caused by the flood, a crisis desk has been formed under the chairmanship of Bulent Ecevit, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State who said, ''We are facing a flood catastrophe, the likes of which hasn't been seen to date''. As a result of the flood in Hatay, Bartin, Sakarya, Zonguldak, Bolu and Sivas, 11 people have died and four are missing. The ''Barbaros'' frigate and three assault boats have evacuated 300 people from the coastal regions. Military helicopters and commandos are also supporting the rescue teams. The Red Crescent (Kizilay) assistance vehicles have gone to the disaster region.

President Suleyman Demirel, who is currently in the Ukraine, expressed his concern about the flood. Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said that there was no shortage of equipment, however bad weather conditions are preventing quick access to the victims and some areas can't be reached at all. ''Our aim for the moment is to make sure that the number of deaths don't increase'', Yilmaz said. /All papers/

MILLER TO VISIT CYPRUS
Thomas Miller, the US Special Coordinator to Cyprus, will go to Cyprus next Sunday. Miller will first attend a conference on the economy of the Greek Cypriot Administration, then later he will go to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). It is expected that Miller will meet with President Rauf Denktas. /Cumhuriyet/

TURKEY ATTENDS EXPO'98 TRADE FAIR IN LISBON
Refaiddin Sahin and Burhan Kara, the Ministers of State, went yesterday to Lisbon, Portugal, in order to attend the world's largest trade fair- Expo'98. Before leaving, Kara said that Turkey would exhibit her developments in the shipping and yachting industries. Kara and Sahin will also meet with their Portuguese counterparts and senior officials to develop bilateral relations. /Hurriyet/

BAKU-CEYHAN CONFERENCE IN US ANKARA EMBASSY
Jan Kalicki, of the US Department of Energy, and Joseph Grandmaison, the Director of the US Trade and Development Agency, held a teleconference yesterday at the US Embassy in Ankara and answered questions from journalists on the Baku-Ceyhan project. Kalicki said that the Turkish government should take measures to make the projected Baku-Ceyhan pipeline more attractive to investors. An Energy Conference will be organized next week in Istanbul. /Hurriyet/

MENZIR TO VISIT DENMARK
Necdet Menzir, the Minister of Transportation and Communications will go to Copenhagen, Denmark, for a European Conference for the Ministers of Transportation (ECMT) to be held between 26-27 May. During the conference, cooperation between the European countries and new policies regarding transportation will be discussed. /Milliyet/

[10] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (2)

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

INTERNATIONAL INTEREST IN THE GAP
Salih Yildirim, the Minister of State, who is currently holding contacts in the US for the promotion of the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP), said that all US institutions with which he has held talks were interested in the GAP project. Yildirim noted that the basic difficulty confronting the project was financial and added that his visit was aimed at stimulating the participation of American institutions in the project. /Milliyet/

FOREIGN EXCHANGE RESERVES REACH 25.8 BILLION US DOLLARS
The Central Bank foreign exchange reserves have reached 25.8 billion US dollars. According to the Central Bank, the foreign exchange reserves, which amounted to 25,131 billion US dollars on May 8, increased by 640 million US dollars and reached 25,771 billion US dollars on May 15. Meanwhile, Turkey's international reserves rose to 33,971 billion US dollars according to data on May 1. /Milliyet/

KARADAYI IS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT VISIT TO RUSSIA
Gen. Ismail Hakki Karadayi, the Chief of General Staff, said that he had been positively impressed by his visit to Russia this week. Karadayi made this comment while speaking to the Turkish journalists in Moscow before his departure for St.Petersburg where he stressed that his visit would be the beginning of a new era in Turco-Russian relations. Karadayi said that Turkey and Russia should cooperate together rather than compete against each other. Karadayi will return to Turkey today. /All papers/

TURKEY'S EU BID TAKES CRITICAL TURN
The Turkey-European Union (EU) relations took a drastic turn for the worse as Turkey announced yesterday that it was angrily boycotting a key meeting with the EU, planned for Monday, due to the EU's political impositions and its inability to keep its promise of economic cooperation with Turkey. ''We don't have confidence in the EU'' a senior official said, complaining that the EU had tried to impose political conditions on Turkey due to the Cyprus conflict, over rows with Greece and on human rights, for the convening of the meeting that was to take place in Brussels. Turkey ruled out political discussions with the 15-member bloc and said that the negotiations should continue only in economic areas with the Union. /All papers/

OPERATIONS AGAINST TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS
During operations carried out for some time, teams from the Istanbul Security Administration's department for the Struggle Against Terrorism have apprehended eight militants of an illegal organization, the Revolutionary Communists' Union of Turkey (TİKB), including a leading terrorist, Tamer Tuncer. Many guns and ammunition were also seized in the operations.

Further, in the rural areas around Tunceli, three PKK terrorists were killed and two were wounded in a struggle the previous night between the Turkish Security Forces and PKK terrorists who had kidnapped three villagers three days ago. In another confrontation two PKK terrorists were killed while one soldier died the previous night. /Hurriyet/

[11] KOSGEB, FOREIGN MINISTRY AND DEIK ORGANIZE A BUSINESS VISIT TO ISRAEL BETWEEN MAY 25-29

A total of 32 Turkish companies from the electricity and electronic, agricultural technologies, construction, automotive industry, plastic, defence industry and medical equipments industry sectors will particiate in the visit.

Business talks will be held during the visit with the representatives and businessmen of related Israeli organizations to promote Turkish KOBIs to the world and to develop the cooperative relations between Turkey and Israel.

It is expected that bilateral protocols will be signed during the visit which will last for three days.

[12] IRANIAN BUSINESSMEN IN VAN - BUSINESSMEN FROM VAN AND IRAN DECIDE TO CONSTRUCT TWO FACTORIES, ONE IN IRAN AND THE OTHER IN TURKEY

Addressing the meeting, Abdulkadir Sari, the Governor of Van, said that they reached a mutual understanding for constructing two factories, one in Iran and the other in Turkey.

Sari stressed that the trade volume between Turkey and Iran is not at a sufficient level and they aim to improve the commercial relations between the two countries.

Abbas Hurshidi, the Chairman of the Iranian delegation and the Governor of Tabriz, said, ''the Turkish and Iranian businessmen will contribute to the commercial relations between the two countries. I believe that we can establish opportunities to produce construction equipment after the asphalt factory in Van and iron factory in Culfa. We can also work for development of the sports activities besides the economy and industry.''

The Iranian delegation will leave Turkey on May 23.

[13] TWO RELIEFS OF THE HERACLES SARCOPHAGUS FROM PERGE, ANTALYA BACK IN TURKEY - THE TURKISH HENKEL COMPANY WILL DELIVER RELIEFS ON MAY 27 TO CETIN, THE SPEAKER OF THE PARLIAMENT

Addressing a press conference, Can Paker, the Director General of the Turkish Henkel, said that the mentioned two reliefs of the sarcophagus which were in the art collection of the German Schwarzkopf company, were brought to Turkey 15 days ago by the Henkel company and put in the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.

Paker pointed out that a documentary film related to the sarcophagus directed by Tarik Akan, an actor, will be displayed at the ceremony.

Tarik Akan also responded to the questions of the journalists at the press conference and stressed that the four reliefs belonged to the Heracles Sarcophagus were stolen from Perge, Antalya, in 1973. He reminded that one of the reliefs was given back to Turkey by Paul Getty, the American press lord, last year.

[14] TURKISH-UKRAINIAN JOINT STATEMENT ISSUED

The joint statement said, ''talks between the sides took place within a sincere atmosphere reflecting traditional friendship relations and reciprocal respect.''

The statement said, ''the two Presidents discussed the improvement realized in cooperation and partnership relations recorded since the visit of Leonid Kuchma, the Ukrainian President, to Turkey between November 27-28, 1996.'' The statement said the sides expressed their joint determination to improve and diversify bilateral relations.''

''The sides confirmed their loyality to the principles and commitments included in the Cooperation and Friendship Agreement signed between Turkey and the Ukraine on May 4, 1992, and expressed their deep satisfaction about the rate of development of bilateral relations which became an important element for improving relations. The sides emphasized the joint will to add a new momentum to existing cooperative relations. Being aware that their relations served the reciprocal interests, the sides agreed to enliven negotiation mechanisms.''

''The sides expressed pleasure about the improvement recorded in bilateral relations and agreed that more efforts should be expended to broaden cooperation by making use of the dynamism and abilities of the businessmen, '' it said.

The sides agreed on the requirements for enlivening and enriching economic cooperation by increasing contracting services and investments.

The Turkish-Ukrainian joint document said that the sides acted on the belief that trade and economic cooperation were the basic elements of the bilateral relations and pointed out that efforts to increase cooperation on transports, energy, science, machine production, communications, agriculture and tourism will be carried out.

The statement said the sides decided to search for the opportunities to increase the coastal trade, adding ''the sides stressed their intentions to liberalize their trade relations in accord with the international commitments. Turkey and the Ukraine will seek opportunities to sign a free trade agreement which will comply with these commitments. The sides will attach more importance to the activities of the Joint Economic Commision to promote and coordinate economic relations.''

It said that the sides emphasized the importance of the oil and natural gas transports and electric energy fields and confirmed their willingness to improve existing dialogue and cooperation in the energy sector. The sides decided to deepen relations on defense issues to strengthen their contributions to international peace and security.

The statement said that the sides, are aware that terrorism, organized crime, illegal weapons and drug trafficking formed serious risks and threats for the security and stability of the region and that it required a comprehensive cooperation between the states. The sides agreed not to let any activity of a person, group or organization threaten the security, stability, national unity and territorial integrity of each others' territory.

It said the sides will continue to improve relations in the fields of culture, science and education.

Stating that the BSEC is seen as an important and influential element for strengthening the integration process in Europe, the statement said the sides welcomed the multilateral talks to increase measures for maritime security in the Black Sea.

The statement also said that Turkey supports the Ukrainian initiative to revive the historical trade route between the Baltic and Black Sea regions.

Emphasizing that the changes in Europe in recent years can't be reversed, the statement said the sides confirmed that the new security structure of Europe should give priority to the principle of the indivisible and comprehensive character of security and not to pave the way for new divisions and regions of influence or regions with security areas at different levels. Thus, Turkey and the Ukraine agreed that no country should have a superior responsibility in providing peace and stability in the Europe-Atlantic region, the statement added.

The sides expressed their belief that the OSCE will play an indispensable role in the security of Europe-Atlantic, the statement said, adding that the sides expect a more sincere attitude from all OSCE members in the struggle against international threats such as terrorism, organized crime, illegal immigration, and weapons smuggling, the statement said.

The statement said that the sides welcomed the agreement on the Guide Document to negotiate the regional maritime security and security building measures between the states which have shores on the Black Sea.

Emphasizing the economic and strategic importance of the Caucasus with its rich natural and human sources, the statement said that the existence of stable, democratic countries which adopt a free market economy, and cooperate with neighbors in peace in the region is very important for the regional cooperation and prosperity.

The statement also reminded that President Demirel invited his Ukrainian counterpart to Turkey and the invitation was accepted.

[15] TURKEY CONDEMNS THE SPEAKER OF THE GREEK PARLIAMENT

In the written statement of the Foreign Ministry, it was pointed out that the so-called Pontus issue is a wrong and fictitious allegation which was created with the aim of defaming Turkey.

The Foreign Ministry noted, ''it is regretful for Greece that the Speaker of the Greek Parliament uttered such baseless allegations. We condemn this attitude which aims only to defame Turkey''.

Kaklamanis, the Speaker of the Greek Parliament, claimed the ''genocide of Pontusians'' in his speech in Salonika on Tuesday.

[16] TURKEY CONDEMNS THE SPEAKER OF THE GREEK PARLIAMENT

In the written statement of the Foreign Ministry, it was pointed out that the so-called Pontus issue is a wrong and fictitious allegation which was created with the aim of defaming Turkey.

The Foreign Ministry noted, ''it is regretful for Greece that the Speaker of the Greek Parliament uttered such baseless allegations. We condemn this attitude which aims only to defame Turkey''.

Kaklamanis, the Speaker of the Greek Parliament, claimed the ''genocide of Pontusians'' in his speech in Salonika on Tuesday.

[17] SIX PEOPLE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION WITH ARMED ATTACK ON BIRDAL, CHIEF OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS ASSOCIATION

Bahri Eken and Kerim Deretarla, the gunmen, and Hasan Hasanoglu, Erkal Uluas, Sergent Cengiz Ersever and Ahmet Fulin who were suspected of organizing the attack were captured after a series of operations by the police.

It was determined that the weapons seized at addresses given by the defendants were used in the attack on Birdal.

It was reported that Sergeant Cengiz Ersever was the man of Mahmut Yildirim, code named as ''Green''. The Green had a significant place in the Susurluk scandal. Police said that the suspects were former members of an ultranationalist group.

Efforts are underway to capture Semih Tufan Guraltay, suspected of planning the assault.

Birdal was shot in the leg and chest on May 12 while in his office in Ankara. The two suspected gunmen escaped.

Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said, ''I am glad that the state is spared from being under suspicion.''

[18] KAZAN APPLIES TO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION FOR RP, CLOSED BY THE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT

The application claimed that the closure of the Welfare Party and political ban on several of its political administrators is contrary to Articles 6,7, 9,10,11,14 and 18 of the European Human Rights Association.

The Articles in question include issues related to the rights of thought, freedom of expression and organization.

The Human Rights Commission will make a research and will decide whether or not to take up the application. If the commission decides to investigate the application, then it will decide whether or not it was a violation of human rights.

The Turkish United Communist Party, Democracy Party (DEP) and Socialist Party, which were all closed by the Constitutional Court, earlier applied to Human Rights Commission on grounds that Turkey had violated human rights.

If the Human Rights Court finds those who filed the suit are justified, then the concerned country has to pay financial compensation.

[19] TURKEY IN BRIEF - MAY 22, 1998

Kadir Calisici, the Governor of Adiyaman, told the A.A correspondent that the security forces asked the terrorists to surrender, but the terrorists opened fire on them. He added, ''the terrorists were accused with rocket attack held on May 19, 1997.''

ANKARA - Heinz Fischer, the Speaker of the Austrian Federal Parliament, who came to Turkey for an official visit, and the delegation accompanying him, visited Bulent Ecevit, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State, on Thursday.

Ecevit gave information to Fischer about the coalition government and its activities on education and on struggle against terrorism. No statement was made about the agenda of the meeting.

ANTALYA - The 11th International Golden Arrow Grand Prix Archery Tournament is continuing in Antalya, it was reported on Thursday.

Nearly 200 athletes from 29 countries participated at the tournament.

The first 64 athletes were determined after the competitions.

The individual finals will be held on May 23, and the team finals on May 24.

DIYARBAKIR - Mahdi Fathalla, the Egyptian Ambassador to Turkey, said on Thursday that the separatist terrorist PKK organization was not invited to the Kurdish Conference which will be organized in Egypt on May 26.

Fathalla, went to Diyarbakir with Mustafa Khalaf, the Egyptian Attaché for Trade and Economy in Istanbul, to develop relations between the two countries. He said that they want to set up a commercial bridge between Diyarbakir and Egypt.

Noting that Egypt sold oil worth 90 million US dollars to Turkey, Fathalla pointed out that they aim to develop the trade volume between the two countries.

CANAKKALE - Haris Kumardogra, the Indian Consul General to Istanbul, visited on Friday Ekrem Ozsoy, the Governor of Canakkale.

Kumardogra stated that India places great importance on Canakkale, noting that many Indian soldiers fought at the Battle of the Dardanelles (Canakkale).

ANKARA - Ivan Gasparovic, the Speaker of the Slovakian Parliament and a parlamentary delegation will visit Turkey as the official guest of the Turkish Parliament between May 24-28, it was reported on Friday.

The Slovakian delegation will come together with Hikmet Cetin, the Speaker of Parliament, and Kamer Genc, the Acting Speaker of the Parliament and the Chairman of the Turkey-Slovakia Inter- parliamentary Friendship Group. The delegation will also be received by President Suleyman Demirel.

Gasparovic and the Slovakian delegation will leave Turkey on May 28.

ISTANBUL - The Swedish trade delegation lead by Yvonne Gustafsson, the Swedish Undersecretary of Foreign Trade, will come to Turkey to hold talks between May 24-28, it was reported on Friday.

The delegation is expected to join the opening ceremony of the

Energy Conference after holding meetings with the officials from the Turkish Association of Industrialists and Businessmen (TUSIAD), the Foreign Economic Relations Committee (DEIK) and Alarko Holding on May 25.

The Swedish delegation will leave Turkey on May 28.

[20] PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ OPENS THE ADIYAMAN AIRPORT FOR SERVICES

Addressing the ceremony staged for the opening of the Airport, Yilmaz said an Airport should be opened to establish the connection of this place with the world. Yilmaz said the Airport which was planned to be constructed in 1993, was concluded within a year with the allocation provided from the Emergency Support Fund.

Yilmaz said that the Airport would change the fate of Adiyaman, because it will contribute to the development of industry and trade as well as tourism.

Mentioning the projects of the government related to air transportation, Yilmaz said that new airports in Nevsehir, Dalaman, Igdir and Agri will be opened for services.

Yilmaz pointed out that the government is aware that there is an important unemployment problem in the East and Southeast, adding that ''we will make Adiyaman and the Southeast the locomotive of Turkey's improvement with the mass development projects.''

Yilmaz said the government brought important initiatives to make the entrepreneurs come to the region to open new factories and to change the future of the region.

Meanwhile, Necdet Menzir, the Minister of Transportation and Communications, said that Adiyaman's Airport wasn't only opening to Turkey, but to the whole world.

Addressing the opening ceremony Menzir said that activities were being carried out intensely in the east, west, north and south of Turkey.

Menzir said the entire world has a great interest in Nemrut. The Adiyaman Airport will create opportunities both for the tourists and make an economic contribution to Turkey.

[21] HUMAN RIGHTS COORDINATOR SUPREME COUNCIL MEETING - STATE MINISTER HIKMET SAMI TURK: - ''PREPARING A REPORT TO DESTROY OR HIDE THE EVIDENCE OF TORTURE WILL BE ACCEPTED AS A REASON FOR INCREASING PENALTIES''

Addressing the journalists after the meeting, Turk said they reached consensus to increase the limits of the penalties in Article 354 of the Turkish Constitution.

Turk said, ''preparing a report to destroy or hide the evidence of torture will be accepted as a reason for increasing the penalty. Hikmet Sami Turk said that the capture of the persons responsible for the armed attack against Akin Birdal, the Chairman of the Human Rights Association, is significant for human rights.

[22] FOREIGN COMPANIES COMPETE FOR THE AKKUYU NUCLEAR POWER PLANT AT MERSIN

The AECL Company, having Canadian capital, expressed readiness to transfer technology to Turkey in case they win the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant tender.

The delegation from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, headed by Yurdakul Yigitguden, the Undersecretary, concluded contacts in Southern Korea, which is the second leg of his tour to three countries that the consortiums which participated in the Akkuyu tender showed as references. The delegation investigated the power plants in these countries.

Milton Caplan, the AECL Company Marketing Director and Akkuyu Project Director said they had good technology programs which will make Turkey independent on the subject of energy.

The delegation will proceed to Germany on Friday.

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