Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-03-04

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AA Daily

04 March 1999 Thursday

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] TURK, NATIONAL DEFENSE MINISTER: ''WE REGARD BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH THE U.S. AS TESTED AND NEVER-ENDING''

[03] PARLIAMENT SPEAKER CETIN IN IRELAND - CETIN RECEIVED BY IRISH PRESIDENT MACALEESE

[04] PREMIER ECEVIT: ''TURKEY IS READY TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL SECURITY OF ALBANIA''

[05] FOLEY, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN OF U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT: - ''THE U.S. DOESN'T INTENTIONALLY TARGET OIL-RELATED FACILITIES IN HER ATTACKS ON IRAQ''

[06] ''NOAH'S BARN'' OPENED

[07] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES ALBANIAN PRIME MINISTER MAJKO

[08] TURKEY ENERGY CONFERENCE - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''WE WILL PURCHASE TURKMEN NATURAL GAS AS MUCH AS WE CAN''

[09] OIL FLOW ALONG KIRKUK-YUMURTALIK PIPELINE RESUMES

[10] GURKAN, DEPUTY PARLIAMENT SPEAKER, RECEIVES MAJKO, ALBANIAN PM

[11] THE INTER-DELEGATIONARY MEETINGS BETWEEN TURKEY AND ISRAEL STARTS

[12] CONTACTS OF ALBANIAN DELEGATION - BUFI, ALBANIAN MINISTER OF PUBLIC ECONOMY AND PRIVATIZATION SAYS HIS COUNTRY SUPPORTS EAST-WEST CORRIDOR HIGHWAY PROJECT

[13] TURKISH-IMF RELATIONS - ULUGBAY, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER: ''WE WILL CONTINUE TALKS WITH IMF IN WASHINGTON D.C.''

[14] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''TRYING TO POSTPONE ELECTIONS SHORTLY BEFORE ELECTIONS, WILL BE AN ATTITUDE THAT WILL CONTRADICT WITH RESPONSIBILITY''

[15] PRESS CONFERENCE OF CAGAN, MINISTER OF FINANCE - ''THERE IS A STABLE DECREASE IN INFLATION''

[16] FISCHER, AUSTRALIAN DEPUTY PM: ''TURKISH ECONOMY HAS A STRONG STRUCTURE''

[17] OIL FLOW ALONG KIRKUK-YUMURTALIK OIL PIPELINE RESUMES - ATACANLI, FOREIGN MINISTRY DEPUTY SPOKESMAN: - ''RE-START OF OIL FLOW INTO TURKEY IS PLEASING''

[18] PARLIAMENT SPEAKER CETIN IN IRELAND

[19] TURKEY DETERMINED TO DEVELOP RELATIONS WITH EGYPT IN EVERY FIELD

[20] TRIAL OF TERRORIST CHIEF - COUNCIL OF EUROPE COMMITTEE FOR PREVENTION OF TORTURE: - ''TURKEY ALLOWED US TO TALK WITH OCALAN PRIVATELY''

[21] RELATIONS BETWEEN TURKEY AND IMF - A DELEGATION LED BY ULUGBAY DUE TO THE U.S. ON SATURDAY

[22] OIL FLOW BACK TO NORMAL ON KIRKUK-YUMURTALIK PIPELINE

[23] ISRAIL'S INVITATION TO KAYA, ONE OF LEADERS OF DEP WHICH WAS CLOSED BY CONSTITUTIONAL COURT - ATACANLI, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN OF FOREIGN MINISTRY: - ''WE HAVE CONVEYED TURKEY'S SENSITIVITY TO ISRAEL''

[24] FOREIGN DEBT REPAYMENTS - 1.3 BILLION U.S. DOLLARS PAID IN FOREIGN DEBT SINCE JANUARY 1, 1999

[25] ATACANLI, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN OF FOREIGN MINISTRY: - ''THE SUPPORT GIVEN BY GREECE AND GREEK CYPRIOT SIDE TO TERRORISM, HAS REVEALED HOW SINCERE THEY ARE ABOUT THEIR ATTITUDE CONCERNING THE SOLUTION OF CYPRUS QUESTION''

[26] FOREIGN EXCHANGE RESERVES OF CENTRAL BANK REDUCES TO 20 BILLION U.S. DOLLARS

[27] TURKEY AND GEORGIA SIGN MILITARY COOPERATION PROTOCOL

[28] ALBANIAN PRIME MINISTER MAJKO DEPARTS TURKEY

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL) INFLATION IS FALLING DOWN
Turkey's inflation is below fifty percent for the first time in eight years. The State Statistics Institution declared the inflation in the wholesale price index as 3.4 percent and the inflation in the consumers price index as 3.2 percent in February.

AMBUSH FOR THE MILITARY CONVOY
The terrorist laid an ambush to the convoy of the security forces which was patrolling in Mardin-Diyarbakir highway two days ago, killing one Turkish soldier and wounding five others. The Turkish security forces later launched an operation to capture the terrorists.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL) U-TURN IN THE BROADCASTING BAN
The Supreme Board of Radio and Television (RTUK) decided to apply the broadcasting ban to the radio and television channels for the elections to be held in April 18, as of April 11.

FAMOUS BUSINESSMAN YIGIT RELEASED
Korkmaz Yigit, famous businessman who is being tried on charges of granting illegal credit to Bankexpress, was released to be tried without detention in the hearing of Wednesday.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT) ASSASSINATION PLAN TO OCALAN
Greece wanted to kill Abdullah Ocalan, terrorist chief, before going to Nairobi. Turkish intelligence unit determined that Greek intelligence wanted to kill Ocalan before he was captured, and later forced him to commit suicide when failed to kill him. It was also reported that Kani Yilmaz, who was in conflict with Cemil Bayik for leadership within the organization, was supported by Greece.

KORKMAZ YIGIT RELEASED
Korkmaz Yigit, the businessman who was tried on grounds that he made the bank to suffer loss by giving illegal credit, was released to be judged without detention. The court put a ban on Yigit not to go abroad. Yigit was also released in a case in which he was judged related with the Turkbank tender.

RADIKAL (LEFT) INFLATION REDUCES BY EIGHT YEARS
The annual inflation in the wholesale decreased below 50 percent for the first time in last eight years. In February, the wholesale prices increased by 3.4 percent and the consumer prices rose by 3.2 percent.

The decrease in inflation continued also in February. The State Institute of Statistics (DIE) announced that the annual inflation in wholesale was 48.3 percent and the annual inflation in consumer was 63.9 percent.

Another important point is that the consumer inflation reduced below the wholesale prices for the first time for a long time. This indicates that the demand in the market was revived.

TERRORISTS, WHO FOUND OPPORTUNITY, ESCAPE FROM PKK
The dissolution process started in the terrorist organization after the apprehension of Ocalan was accelerated. The Intelligence determined that 150 PKK terrorists joined the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), 25 terrorists surrendered, 23 of them were killed by the terrorist organization and seven of them committed suicide.

It was said that the PKK threatens to punish the families of the escapees. The struggle for leadership in the organization also speeded up the dissolution. It was also said that the quarrels are on the brink of turning into clashes.

YENİ YÜZYIL (LIBERAL) RECORD OF PAST SIX YEARS, INFLATION IS BELOW 50
PERCENT IN THE END
Price falls in many products from food stuff to clothings, with the effect of economic stagnation, provided the inflation to come out low in February. State Statistical Institute (DIE) disclosed the wholesale prices as 3.4 percent and 3.2 percent in consumer prices. Annual inflation as of February is 48.3 percent in wholesale and 63.9 percent in consumer prices.

CALL FOR CAPITAL PUNISHMENT FOR SAKIK
Prosecutor called for capital punishment for Semdin Sakik, another leading name of the terrorist organization, under Article 125 of the Turkish Penal Code. Sakik, speaking at the court, said ''dictator'' for Abdullah Ocalan, terrorist chief. Sakik was brought to the court for the first time after capture of Ocalan. Semdin and Arif Sakik participated in the hearing.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT) SAKIK: ''OCALAN GAVE ALL THE INSTRUCTIONS''
Semdin Sakik, a member of the terrorist organization who is tried, demanding capital punishment, said that ''Abdullah Ocalan, the killer of babies, gave the instruction to kill 33 Turkish soldiers in 1993.''

FORD MOTOR COMPANY TO MOVE INTO THE CENTRAL ASIA MARKET BY KOC HOLDING
Ford Motor Company, one of the U.S. automotive companies, will move into the Central Asia market by Ram Auto, one of the companies of Koc Holding. Many types of Ford car, jeep, minibus and lorry will be sold in the Central Asia.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

During the hearing at the diyarbakir State Security Court, Sakik said, ''I didn't plan or carry out that order. I didn't have any connection with that murders. I only worked for Ocalan as courier. I fulfilled Ocalan's orders. I am ready to serve what my sentence is.''

[02] TURK, NATIONAL DEFENSE MINISTER: ''WE REGARD BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH THE U.S. AS TESTED AND NEVER-ENDING''

Addressing a speech in Washington Institute, Turk said ''these two countries have close interests on many issues which we face'' and pointed out that these experiences focused on defense cooperation issue between the two countries in the cold war period.

''Today, our partnership is based not only on defense and security cooperation but also on a number of other elements-namely exploring the full potential of bilateral economic cooperation, adopting a common approach toward the distribution of vital energy resources, increasing the level of close cooperation on regional issues of strategic importance, and pioneering international efforts to contain and resolve conflicts which endanger regional and international stability,'' Turk said, and added that ''for instance, both countries share the same vision concerning the importance of Turkey's full integration with Europe. We cooperate in regional peace mechanisms like the OSCE's Minsk Process, which was initiated to resolve the Azeri-Armenian conflict. Together we are contributing troops to SFOR in Bosnia. Jointly, we have saved thousands of people from virtual extermination and helped stop ethic cleansing campaigns.''

Hikmet Sami Turk said, ''Turkey, from the very beginning, has been in favor of the enlargement of NATO because, we believe this will enhance security and stability in Europe.'' He said ''in our opinion European security and defense identity should be developed within NATO. The North Atlantic Alliance must remain as the main forum for consultations among the allies on issues concerning security and defense of Europe.''

''Finally, let me share my views with you over terrorism which is an international problem,'' Turk said, adding that ''no matter which country terrorism aims at, it concerns all countries. In this respect the countries need to take a joint action to overcome this problems.''

He said ''However, some European countries, in particular Greece has provided support to the PKK terrorism. It is impossible for them to acquit themselves claiming they have helped the murderer of 30,000 people on ''humanitarian grounds.'' Turk said ''such a murderer should not go unpunished. As you know, he is now in custody in Turkey. Everyone can be sure that he will have a just and fair trial.''

Turk said, ''for Turkey, the Balkan Peninsula is its lifeline to Western Europe. We have historic links with every country and people living in the Balkans that date back more than four centuries. Therefore, Turkey has a legitimate interest in the arragements that are to be worked in this region.''

''The bloody break-up of the former Yugoslavia demonstrated the dangers inherent in ethnic or religious intolerance. Turkey felt it to be a historic responsibility and duty to help stop the carnage in Bosnia- Herzegovina and actively contributed to the NATO forces which finally brought peace to the country'' Turk said, adding that ''We still provide over a thousand troops to the stabilization force (SFOR), which is monitoring compliance with the Dayton accords. We have also sent a police contingent to Bosnia-Herzegovina to improve the security of innocent civilians. Turkey also cooperates with the U.S. in training and arming the Bosnian army to ensure that past horrors are never repeated. Turkey is the leading proponent of assistance to the Bosnians within the Islamic Conference Organization and is contributing to the reconstruction and rehabilitation.''

National Defense Minister said ''Turkey is also concerned with the escalation of tension in Kosovo. Turkey denounces all sorts of violance including terrorist activities and believes that durable solution is possible only with the full protection of the rights of all Kosovars including those of Turkish origin. In other words, Turkey advocates enhanced autonomous status for Kosovo within the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.''

Turkey, Minister of National Defense, pointed out that ''although Turkey generally enjoys good relations with her Balkan neighbour, a number of issues between Turkey and Greece remain unsolved. Today's status quo in the Agean has been established by the Lausanne Treaty of 1923. Turkey can not, and will not, accept any ''fait accomplis'' in this semi-closed sea that would damage her vital interests and security. However, we have always adopted a constructive attitude supporting the resolution of all outstanding disputes with Greece through a substantive and result-oriented dialogue process'' and added that ''Turkey has conveyed a series of comprehensive proposals to Greece in February and March 1998 which were declined by Greece. Greece does not seem to be keen on entering into a meaningful dialgue to settle our differences and continues her policy of escalating tension.''

In his speech, Turk said, ''the Cyprus question has been pending for almost 36 years. In spite of the dramatical changes that have occured both on the international scene and in Cyprus, a solution has not been reached yet. The Minister said, ''Turkey extends her full support to the recent proposal by President Denktas of the Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) envisaging the establishment of 'Cyprus Confederation'. One should notice that this proposal was put forward at a time when the Cyprus issue reached a very critical phase on both political and military fronts. Turkey strongly believes that this proposal provides a perspective for a just and lasting settlement, and it can finally open an avenue for peace and reconcilation.,

''On another issue, I am sure you are well aware that Gulf War and the ensuing U.N. sanctions against Iraq have inflicted enormous economic losses on Turkey. Our losses caused by this crisis have been only fractionary recovered and relevant U.N. resolutions have proved to be insufficent to compensate the actual losses,'' Turk said, adding that ''despite this negative trend, we maintain our solidarity with the international community. We continue to host the 'Operation Northern Watch', within the framework of the rules regarding the implementation of the Operation.''

''At this point, I would like to express our wish for the urgent settlement of the present problems with Iraq through peaceful means. For a lasting peace, Iraq must fully comply with all the relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions. One of our most significant tasks is to preserve Iraq's territorial integrity and political independence. We have to make a distinction between the Iraqi regime and the Iraqi people. We would like to see the urgent end of pains suffered by Iraqi people, the removal of the U.N. sanctions through full compliance with the U.N. resolutions and the normalization of the daily life in the region,'' Turk said.

National Minister of Defense pointed out that ''the region figures prominently in any discussion of world energy supplies with its proven oil reserves. The transfer of Caspian and Central Asian oil and gas to world markets will ensure long-term stability in the supply of this vital resource, while, at the same time, diversifying the sources of such supply. Turkey is the most likely overland route for transporting such oil gas to western markets.''

[03] PARLIAMENT SPEAKER CETIN IN IRELAND - CETIN RECEIVED BY IRISH PRESIDENT MACALEESE

Cetin and MacAleese discussed the Turkish-Irish and Turkish-European Union (EU) relations and the important issues on the agenda of Europe and the world.

Following that meeting, Cetin proceeded to the Irish Parliament and met with Seamus Pattison, the Chairman of the House of Representatives.

During the meeting, Cetin and Pattison took up the ways to further develop the interparliamentary cooperation and solidarity between Turkey and Ireland.

Cetin and the accompanying parliamentary delegation attended the reception given in their honor at the Irish Parliament.

Parliament Speaker Cetin will hold on Thursday a meeting with Dick Spring, the former leader of the Workers' Party, the former Deputy Prime Minister and the former Foreign Minister.

Later, Cetin will participate in sessions at the Irish Parliament and Senate.

Cetin, who will meet with Gay Mitchel, a deputy from the main opposition party, will hold a meeting with the Irish Foreign Minister David Andrews.

Later the same day, Parliament Speaker Cetin will meet with the members of the Institute of European Affairs after his contact with Michael Ferris, a deputy of the Workers' Party.

[04] PREMIER ECEVIT: ''TURKEY IS READY TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL SECURITY OF ALBANIA''

Emphasizing that Albania and Turkey have a joint history which continues for many centuries, Ecevit drew the attention that Turkey feels uneasy about the Serbian cruelty in Kosovo.

Ecevit said, ''the vested interests of the Kosovon people are taken away from themselves. They should re-acquire those rights and liberties. When the cruelty the Kosovans face is taken into consideration, the rights they will re-acquire will be firmly guaranteed.''

Stating that first of all, the life security of the Kosovon people should be provided, Ecevit showed the peaceful and secure life of the Turkish and Albanian people in Turkey as an example and said, ''The Kosovans with Turkish origin and the Kosovons with Albanian origin benefit from all the rights equally in Kosovo. This is an issue which we are sensitive about.''

Ecevit added, ''the fire in Kosovo should be put out as soon as possible. Otherwise, the sparks of this fire will spread to all the Balkan countries, especially to Albania. Since we are aware of this danger, we will call the NATO to take secure and efficient measures immediately unless a fair solution for the peace in Kosovo cannot be found. We are ready to contribute in military field under the framework of NATO.''

Recalling that Turkey is ready to help Albania, Ecevit said that the cooperation in industrial and economic fields between the two countries can be improved.

Hikmet Ulugbay, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State, Sukru Sina Gurel, Minister of State, Nami Cagan, Minister of Finance, Pascal Milo, Albanian Foreign Minister, Luan Haydaraga, Albanian Defense Minister, and Yilli Bufi, Albanian Minister of Public Economy and Privatization, also joined the dinner.

[05] FOLEY, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN OF U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT: - ''THE U.S. DOESN'T INTENTIONALLY TARGET OIL-RELATED FACILITIES IN HER ATTACKS ON IRAQ''

Responding to President Suleyman Demirel's statement about the bombing of Kirkuk-Yumurtalik oil pipeline, Foley said, ''we can state certainly that we don't intentionally target infrastructure associated with the oil-for- food programme, but this matter is being looked into.''

Foley stressed that the U.S. aircraft patrolling over Iraq on 28 February and 1 March hit targets like air defence radar and weapon systems, other parts of the Iraqi air defence command and control, early warning, and communications network which were associated with Iraqi attempts to engage the U.S. aircraft.

Foley said that they were cooperating with the Turkish government in the investigation of that matter.

When asked if continuous bombing of the Iraqi pipeline is an acceptable situation for Turkey, President Suleyman Demirel during his address at a conference organized at the Hilton Hotel in Ankara by the Economist magazine said, ''no, it is unacceptable.''

[06] ''NOAH'S BARN'' OPENED

An official from the Association of Protecting the Natural Life drew the attention to the consumption habits and said that they aim at changing the consumption habits, being aware of what they consume and consuming more from the nature.

Victor Ananias, the head of the ''Noah's Barn'', gave information about the products of their shop.

Ananias said that they will sell dried fruit, nuts, cereals, honey, grape molasses, olive oil, non-refined oils, salt, sugar, ecological agriculture products, herbal teas, pots and wooden spoons.

Emphasizing that the agriculture is adopted by more and more people in Turkey and in the world, Ananias said, ''Turkey is the fifth in the agricultural production in the world, but the 99 percent of this production is exported.''

[07] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES ALBANIAN PRIME MINISTER MAJKO

The Presidential Press Center issued a statement saying President Suleyman Demirel stressed at the meeting that the relations between Turkey and Albania are increasingly developing.

It said President Suleyman Demirel stressed that Turkey attaches great importance to peace in Albania and she is determined to continue extending every support to Albania's efforts to strengthen her democracy and to develop her economy.

President demirel said the cooperation, which Turkey and Albania established within the understanding of partnership in bilateral and regional projects, especially the East-West Corridor, will positively contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

Pointing out that the situation in Kosovo creates uneasiness, Demirel said that securing peace in the Balkans constitutes Turkey's basic goal, thus Turkey is doing her best to prevent the worsening of the situation in Kosovo and closely monitoring the developments in the peace talks.

Demirel said that he is sure Turkey, as a NATO member, will participate in the measures to be taken by NATO if necessary; Albania will continue her attitude she assumed against the Kosovo issue and protect the unity and integrity in her territories regarding that national issue.

Albanian Prime Minister Majko said that Albania attaches great importance to further development of her relations with Turkey in every field.

Majko said the developments in Kosovo are followed with an increasing concern in Albania and exceeding of the dimensions of the issue out of Kosovo's borders should be prevented.

Noting that Albania couldn't find a friendly country to apply except Turkey under those hard conditions, Majko expressed his pleasure with Turkey's initiatives for the continuation of the active interest of the international community in the situation in Kosovo.

President Suleyman Demirel said that Turkey will continue her close interest and support concerning bilateral relations with Albania and completely fulfil her commitments to Albania.

[08] TURKEY ENERGY CONFERENCE - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''WE WILL PURCHASE TURKMEN NATURAL GAS AS MUCH AS WE CAN''

President Demirel responded to the questions following closing session of''Turkey Energy Conference, staged by The Economist Magazine.

When asked ''you said the state has to withdraw from industry and trade. Some others here don't think so. Do you think this will happen in the future?'', Demirel said ''I think so. I believe that people of my country will understand this. My people knows the necessity of this.''

Responding to a question if an investment will be realized with the Turkmen natural gas, Demirel said ''we want 15 billion cubic meters Turkmen natural gas to be brought to Turkey. I individually struggle for this, yet I learned that Turkey needs 55 billion cubic meters. This will increase to 80 billion cubic meters later. We will purchase Turkmen natural gas as much as we can. We will purchase all the natural gas and Blue Stream.''

When asked ''how much share can Turkey have in renewable energy sources?'', Demirel said wind energy and thermal energy came to a position that can be used in Turkey.

Noting that solar energy was not almost used in the world, Demirel said ''yet, even one kwh energy should be used. The most rich source is the sun. If technology manages to reverse solar energy to other kind of energies, a very important step would be taken.''

When asked ''if it said that Turkey prevented passages from the starits due to environmental reasons'', Demirel said ''usage of the straits as a pipeline is very dangerous for us. Tanker explosion a few weeks ago in the Marmara Sea created problem for us. If this happened in the middle of the Strait, Istanbul would burn. We think that Baku-Ceyhan pipeline will be replaced with the Straits. Turkey attributes great importance to this.''

Responding to a question ''it has been said in Turkey that applying to international arbitration would damage sovereignty rights, how do you interpret this?'', Demirel said ''Turkey will close its borders if it wants, will not go to international platform and will not have relations with anybody, than nobody can do anything to Turkey. If Turkey is a civilized country, of course it is, will have contact with other countries.''

''It can not be imagined that Turkey will refrain from the methods that are common in the world. You may avoid for sometime but this will not be for the benefit of the country. If we will be a part of the international community, we will fulfil its requirements. On the one side we struggle hard to be a part of the European Union (EU), when you become the part of the EU, you should accept many things that you don't accept today.''

Demirel pointed out that Turkey should not be left without energy and that coming of investments should not be prevented.

[09] OIL FLOW ALONG KIRKUK-YUMURTALIK PIPELINE RESUMES

Speaking to the A.A correspondent, the officials said that the power- feeding system at the communication center near Mosul was reinforced and the communication center near the Syrian border was provided with by-pass.

Pointing out that the work will go on in that way until the station near Syrian border is repaired, the officials said that the daily oil flow of nearly one million barrels has been provided since Wednesday night.

During the air strike of the U.S. and British planes on 28 February on Northern Iraq, the power-feeding units of the relay station named RS-6 (repeater station) 35 km away from Mosul was damaged, and during another air strike on 1 March, another radio relay station near Syrian border was totally destroyed.

The pipeline wasn't damaged during the airstrikes while tne pipeline was put out of action as the pumping was cut due the malfunction at communication system.

The Kirkuk-Yumurtalik oil pipeline, which was closed in August 1990 due to the Gulf War and the embargo started to be imposed on Iraq after the Gulf War by the U.N., started to flow oil on 10 december 1996 with the permission for export with humanitarian purpose.

The pipeline has an annual transfer capacity of 70 million tons of oil while the flow remained at 37.5 million tons last year.

[10] GURKAN, DEPUTY PARLIAMENT SPEAKER, RECEIVES MAJKO, ALBANIAN PM

Gurkan said that he was pleased to receive Majko in the parliament.

Stating that the relations between Turkey and Albania depend on not only friendship of the two countries but also the kinship of the people of the two countries, Gurkan said, ''the kinship between our people imposes another responsibility to the cooperation between our countries.''

Stressing that the high-ranking relations between the presidents of the two countries continue in the level of prime ministers, Gurkan emphasized that the inter-parliamentary relations are not in the desired level and that they should improve these relations.

Majko expressed the importance of his visit to Turkey for his country.

Noting that he will show great concern for the relations between his country and Turkey, regardless of which party rules Albania, Majko said that they aim at improving the commercial and political relations between the two countries.

[11] THE INTER-DELEGATIONARY MEETINGS BETWEEN TURKEY AND ISRAEL STARTS

Ugur Ziyal, the Deputy Undersecretary of Foreign Ministry, and Uri Bar-Ner, Israeli Ambassador to Turkey, also participated in the meetings.

It is reported that the bilateral relations between Turkey and Israel and the regional issues will be discussed in the meetings.

Ben-Tsur is expected to join the luncheon held by Haktanir and to be received by Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister, in the afternoon.

[12] CONTACTS OF ALBANIAN DELEGATION - BUFI, ALBANIAN MINISTER OF PUBLIC ECONOMY AND PRIVATIZATION SAYS HIS COUNTRY SUPPORTS EAST-WEST CORRIDOR HIGHWAY PROJECT

The guest minister Bufi, visited Yavuz Ege, Foreign Trade Undersecretary, on Thursday morning.

Improvement of Turkish-Albanian trade and economic relations, which were retarded due to political problems and disputes in Albania since 1996 was discussed during the meeting which was closed to the press.

Yilli Bufi said his country supported ''East-West Corridor Highway Project'' which will start from Albania and reach out to Istanbul by passing from Macedonia and Bulgaria.

It has been noted that if the project takes effect, trade volume between the two countries, which is on low level, will increase a lot. Greece opposes to East-West Corridor Highway Project and proposes North-South corridor as alternative.

Yilli Bufi also pointed out that Albania was a country convenient to investment in medium and long term and called on Turkish companies to invest in Albania.

Meanwhile, it was also reported that Kentbank and Bank Capital from Turkey offered proposals to the Albanian National Trade Bank which will be privatized.

During the meeting it was recalled that Turkey made exportation to Albania worth of 35.380 million dollars and realized 2.215 million dollars importation in the 11 months of 1998.

The sides decided to increase contacts to improve trade volume.

[13] TURKISH-IMF RELATIONS - ULUGBAY, DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER: ''WE WILL CONTINUE TALKS WITH IMF IN WASHINGTON D.C.''

Ulugbay said that the talks to be held in Washington D.C. with the IMF will be the continuation of the contacts in Ankara.

Speaking to the A.A correspondent, Ulugbay said, ''the rating organization DCR's earlier evaluations about some banks and organizations in Turkey were prepared according to nine-month statistics of 1998. However, it is obvious that Turkey has achieved a very successful performance when the one-year statistics are evaluated.''

[14] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''TRYING TO POSTPONE ELECTIONS SHORTLY BEFORE ELECTIONS, WILL BE AN ATTITUDE THAT WILL CONTRADICT WITH RESPONSIBILITY''

Responding to the questions of reporters, Ecevit said ''trying to postpone elections will contradict with responsibility. There is uneasiness between the deputies in general but not in Democratic Left Party (DSP). There are demands. Yet, these should be solved within the parties.''

When a journalist recalled that planes taking off from Incirlik Airbase hit oil pipeline, and asked what could be done to prevent this, Ecevit said General Staff takes required measures.

[15] PRESS CONFERENCE OF CAGAN, MINISTER OF FINANCE - ''THERE IS A STABLE DECREASE IN INFLATION''

Addressing a press conference, Cagan said that the statistics in February proved that reliance.

''There is a stable decrease in the inflation. Anyway, Turkey did not implement a huge programme. The government with its stability programme gives the domestic and foreign markets the impression of being trustworthy. Hikmat Ulugbay, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of State responsible for economy, will leave for Washington D.C. to meet with IMF officials with good trumps,'' he said.

Pointing out that the Social Security Reform is an obligation, Cagan said that they failed to adopt that reform as they are a minority government although all preparations were concluded.

''I believe a majority government after the elections will cover the issue with determination. We made a very serious preparation, but the issue got stucked at the Parliament's agenda. I believe Turkey will make this reform and she will be relieved,'' Cagan mentioned.

[16] FISCHER, AUSTRALIAN DEPUTY PM: ''TURKISH ECONOMY HAS A STRONG STRUCTURE''

Addressing a statement at the Ataturk Airport when leaving Turkey, Fischer said that his visit was not official and that he held some meetings with the industrialists and businessmen during his visit to Turkey.

Fischer said that he wished that the trading volume between Turkey and Australia will improve.

Emphasizing that Turkey is in a position of a bridge in the region, Fischer noted that he realized that Turkish Republics and Caucasus are more reachable via Turkey, adding that Turkish economy has a strong structure.

[17] OIL FLOW ALONG KIRKUK-YUMURTALIK OIL PIPELINE RESUMES - ATACANLI, FOREIGN MINISTRY DEPUTY SPOKESMAN: - ''RE-START OF OIL FLOW INTO TURKEY IS PLEASING''

Addressing the wekly press conference, Atacanli said that they reiterated that the consequences of the tension between Iraq and the U.N. is inconvenient for both the interests of the region and the economic interests of Turkey and that the last event emphasized Turkey's sensitivities.

When asked whether or not Turkey set up contact with Iraq concerning the issue, Atacanli said that the Pipeline Oil Transportation Corp (BOTAS) could have set up such a contact.

Atacanli noted that Turkey's views are being conveyed by Hikmet Sami Turk, the Minister of National Defense who is currently paying a visit to the U.S.

Recalling the statement of the U.S. State Department Spokesman James Foley stressing that the U.S. doesn't intentionally target oil-related facilities, Atacanli said, ''this issue is developing out of Turkey. The key for the solution is not in the hand of Turkey. We put forward our opinions from time to time. This problem, which has been continuing since 1991, should be solved. The sides have to cover this issue.''

[18] PARLIAMENT SPEAKER CETIN IN IRELAND

The meeting which lasted for nearly half an hour, focused on the bilateral relations between Turkey and Republic of Ireland that have accelerated recently.

Ahern and Cetin also evaluated the opportunities to further improve touristic, economic and commercial relations between the two countries.

Cetin later came together with Dick Spring, the former Foreign Minister and former leader of the Labour Party.

Issues such as relations between Turkey and the European Union (EU) and the latest developments in the most significant crisis regions of the world were taken up at the meeting along with the relations between Turkey and Ireland.

[19] TURKEY DETERMINED TO DEVELOP RELATIONS WITH EGYPT IN EVERY FIELD

During his visit, Ozkok explored new opportunities to increase the military cooperation between the two countries. Ozkok also presented President Demirel's letter to Husnu Mubarak, the Egyptian President.

On his way back home, Ozkok stopped by Jordan to visit King Abdullah and offered his condolences for King Hussein's demise. Ozkok also wished success to King Abdullah in his new post.

After Israel, Jordan and Egypt are two countries in the Middle East which have importance for Turkey. Turkey is putting a great deal of effort to develop its political and economical relations with these countries.

Turkey had started improving its relations with Israel as a first step to contribute to peace. The Turkey-Israeli relations which first started developing in the defense industry, continued with Turkey-Israel-United States joint military exercise and later advanced further in other areas as well.

The Turkish Armed Forces is now getting prepared for a joint military exercise with Jordan who observed Turkey-Israel-United States military exercise in East Mediterranean. The exercise is planned to take place in May.

Turkey also took important steps in its relations with Egypt which will bring peace and stability to the Middle East.

The developments gained acceleration with Mubarek's involvement in the process of chief terrorist Ocalan's deportation from Syria. Ismail Hakki Karadayi, the then Chief of Staff had also visited Egypt last year.

[20] TRIAL OF TERRORIST CHIEF - COUNCIL OF EUROPE COMMITTEE FOR PREVENTION OF TORTURE: - ''TURKEY ALLOWED US TO TALK WITH OCALAN PRIVATELY''

The Committee issued a statement saying that the delegation also visited several police headquarters both in Istanbul and Izmir.

The Committe for Prevention of Torture noted that Turkey visit of the delegation which began last Saturday, was over.

Meanwhile sources at the Council of Europe pointed out that there were a Croation medical expert, a Norwegian psychiatrist and the secretary of the Committe in the three-people delegation who talked with Ocalan privately.

The Committee tries to prevent human rights abuses towards prisoners in prisons and police headquarters of the member states to the Council of Europe by preparing reports following the unexpected visits through committees formed by independent jurists.

The Committe for Prevention of Torture issued a report last week saying that Turkey has taken positive steps on the human rights.

Officials at the Committee stressed that Turkey's permission for the committee report to be issued officialy, is also a significant development.

[21] RELATIONS BETWEEN TURKEY AND IMF - A DELEGATION LED BY ULUGBAY DUE TO THE U.S. ON SATURDAY

Yener Dincmen, the Undersecretary of Treasury; and Gazi Ercel, the Governor of the Central Bank; Cuneyt Sel, the Deputy Undersecretary of Treasury; Emin Dedeoglu, the Director General of the Public Finance Department of Undersecretariat of Treasury; Sukru Binay and Surreya Serdengecti, the Deputies of Governor of Central Bank; Durmus Oztek, the Director General of theh Bugdet and Financial Inspection Department of the Finance Ministry; Fikret Sevinc, the Director General of Accountancy Department of Finance Ministry; Faik Oztrak, the Deputy Undersecretary of State Planning Organization; and Zafer Yuksel, the Director General of Annual Programme and Conjuncture Evaluation, will take place in the delegation.

[22] OIL FLOW BACK TO NORMAL ON KIRKUK-YUMURTALIK PIPELINE

According to the written statement made by Botas General Directorate, the oil flow which had to be stopped after it was hit by a rocket on Feb 28 during the U.S. airstrike, resumed its normal flow on Wednesday night.

Parallel to the repair done by Iraq, BOTAS also made the necessary arrangements on the Turkish side of the pipeline.

Currently, seven thousand metercubes of oil flows per hour through the oil pipeline. ''As a result of measures taken at BOTAS's sea terminal, there has been no interruptions experienced in loading of tankers, even during the period when the pipeline was closed due to repair,'' the statement said.

The crude oil flow through the Kirkuk-Yumurtalik pipeline was cut on Sunday night after two relay stations in Iraqi land which provide communication and data transfer of the pipeline were damaged during the U.S. strike.

[23] ISRAIL'S INVITATION TO KAYA, ONE OF LEADERS OF DEP WHICH WAS CLOSED BY CONSTITUTIONAL COURT - ATACANLI, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN OF FOREIGN MINISTRY: - ''WE HAVE CONVEYED TURKEY'S SENSITIVITY TO ISRAEL''

Addressing the weekly press conference, Atacanli pointed out that invitation in question was made by a non-governmental organization, and stressed, ''There is no difference whether government or a non-governmental organization invites him to Israel. We have conveyed our sensitivity to Israeli officials.''

Responding to a question about the news reports claiming that there might be contacts between several Kurdish groups and Israel following the incident in front of the Israeli Consulate General in Berlin, Germany, causing casualties, Atacanli noted that the Foreign Ministry has launched an initiative both in Ankara and Tel-Aviv.

When asked what will happen to the relations between Turkey and Israel if Kaya accepts the invitation, Atacanli told the reporters, ''The person in question has not visited Israel yet. We should not discuss possibilities.''

Israeli newspapers issued news reports claiming that Kaya was invited to Israel by an Israeli writer to attend the International

Mediterranean Forum meeting.

[24] FOREIGN DEBT REPAYMENTS - 1.3 BILLION U.S. DOLLARS PAID IN FOREIGN DEBT SINCE JANUARY 1, 1999

The Central Bank data shows that the Treasury paid 991.82 million U.S. dollars; the Central Bank repaid 76.15 million U.S. dollars; the Ministry of National Defense and the Defense Industry paid 99.83 million U.S. dollars and the Defense Fund paid 1.23 million U.S. dollars in foreign debt since January 1, 1999.

Meanwhile, a total of 765.75 million U.S. dollars of foreign debt was repaid between February 1 and 28.

[25] ATACANLI, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN OF FOREIGN MINISTRY: - ''THE SUPPORT GIVEN BY GREECE AND GREEK CYPRIOT SIDE TO TERRORISM, HAS REVEALED HOW SINCERE THEY ARE ABOUT THEIR ATTITUDE CONCERNING THE SOLUTION OF CYPRUS QUESTION''

Addressing a weekly press conference, Atacanli stressed that Greece's attitude against Turkey has been displayed to the public opinion with proofs, and noted that the Foreign Ministry maintains the evaluation over the issue.

''Without doubt, the support given to terrorism targeting Turkey by Greece and the Greek Cypriot side administration, shows how insincere they are in their search for a peaceful solution to the Cyprus question. We also know that this person (Abdullah Ocalan, the chief of terrorist organization PKK) was carrying a Greek Cypriot passport with him when he was captured. Unfortunately, such behaviours do nothing but increase the lack of confidence which already exists between the two countries,'' he said.

Atacanli added, ''reaching progress in the solution of Cyprus issue is closely related to a change in the attitude of the Greek Cypriot side. The Greek Cypriot side administration, like Greece, must also stop supporting terrorism.''

Atacanli also said that they hope the relations with Greece would be back to normal in near future. ''Of course, there are certain steps Greece should take. Greece should stop its support to terrorist organizations. Our position is clear, and it has been expressed in the highest level,'' said Atacanlı.

Pointing out that all existing problems between the two countries should be solved with detailed talks between the authorities of the two countries, Atacanlı said that Turkey had concrete proposals to solve its problems with its neighbour, but Greece was never cooperative.

Atacanlı said, ''progress can be reached in this issue within the framework which we are given a positive reaction. We maintain our attitude supporting dialog. If this is not done, Turkey will continue to protect its rights and interests stemming from international law.''

Responding to a question, Atacanli said they continue exhibiting Greece's supportive attitude towards terrorism on the international platform. When asked if his ministry plans to do the same for other European countries, he said, ''all countries should fight against terrorism. This is not a favour done to us. We would like to reveal the countries which we believe that they do not take required attitude against terrorism on the international platform within this framework.''

[26] FOREIGN EXCHANGE RESERVES OF CENTRAL BANK REDUCES TO 20 BILLION U.S. DOLLARS

The Central Bank data shows that the foreign exchange reserves, which decreased by 245 million U.S. dollars between 19-26 February, reduced to 20 billion 147 million U.S. dollars as of 26 February.

The Central Bank's foreign exchange reserves were 20 billion 392 million U.S. dollars on 19 February.

Meanwhile, according to the 12 February-based statistics, Turkey's total international gross reserves decreased 343 million U.S. dollars to 32 billion 171 million U.S. dollars between 5-12 February.

The international gross reserves of Turkey were 32 billion 514 million U.S. dollars on 5 February.

As of 12 February, Turkey's international reserves were composed of 1 billion 125 million U.S. dollars in gold reserves; 20 billion 67 million U.S. dollars in the Central Bank's foreign exchange reserves; and 11 billion 91 million U.S. dollars in the commercial banks' foreign exchange reserves.

[27] TURKEY AND GEORGIA SIGN MILITARY COOPERATION PROTOCOL

The protocol signed by delegation of the Turkish Armed Forces that pays an official visit to Georgia, and Georgian high-ranking military officials, comprises a period of five years.

The protocol envisages the military relations between the two countries to be further improved.

Within this framework, several Georgian officers will be trained in Turkey.

Grigol Katamadze, the Georgian Deputy Defense Minister, told the journalists that Turkey has offered assistance in the construction of a military guesthouse and a sports complex for the Georgian War Academy in Tbilisi.

The delegation of the Turkish Armed Forces is expected to return to Turkey tomorrow.

[28] ALBANIAN PRIME MINISTER MAJKO DEPARTS TURKEY

Aydin Tumen, the State Minister, and other senior officials were at the Esenboga Airport to see off Prime Minister Majko.

Majko was received by President Suleyman Demirel, and held talks with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, General Huseyin Kivrikoglu, Chief of General Staff, and Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister during his official visit to Turkey.

Luan Hajdaraga, the Albanian Defense Minister; Pascal Milo, the Albanian Foreign Minister, and Ylli Bufi, the Albanian Minister of Public Economy and Privatization, accompanied Majko during his visit.

A.A

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