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Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-03-23Anadolu Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next ArticleFrom: The Anadolu Agency Home Page at <http://www.anadoluajansi.gov.tr/>AA Daily23 March 1999 TuesdayCONTENTS
[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCANThese are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in Turkey's press on March 23, 1999. The Anadolu Agency does not verify these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.HURRIYET (LIBERAL)SILENCEDTurkey who had a great success by capturing Apo, got her second victory by silencing Med-TV, the mouthpiece of terrorism. REPULSED Uluc Gurkan, the acting speaker of the parliament, stopped the procedures related to the motion to annul the elections which was brought to the parliament by Yasin Hatipoglu, a Virtue Party deputy and acting chairman of the parliament, a day earlier by breaching the Constitution, and parliament regulations. Gurkan said that the decision to annul the elections belongs to the Constitution Commission. This makes it impossible to annul the elections. The censure motion given to overthrow the government was also rejected. The Virtue Party Deputies who reacted by saying ''we are going to loose the party to save Erbakan'' did not insist on annulment of the elections. Thus, the initiative started by Virtue Party and the deputies who are not taken to the candidate list of their parties for the elections and who are known as ''disgruntled deputies'' by the public did not yield a result. MILLIYET (LIBERAL) ''STOP'' TO THE HATRED CHANNEL ERBAKAN RUINS FP SABAH (LIBERAL)BLOODY CHANNEL HAS BEEN STOPPEDBritain for a period of three weeks stopped Med-TV which made calls for bloody attacks from Europe. The U.S., which said this television incited terrorist PKK to violence, welcomed the decision. Meeting of Foreign Minister Ismail Cem with his British counterpart last week was effective in the decision of Britain to stop Med-TV. HE ALSO RUINED VIRTUE PARTY CUMHURIYET (LEFT)INVESTIGATION TO FPNuh Mete Yuksel, State Security Court (DGM) Public Prosecutor, on Monday applied to the Supreme Court Chief prosecutor's office with a call to ban Virtue Party (FP). Yuksel forwarded the accusations that FP ''became the focus of the activities which target destroying secular state order and establish a shariah state'' and ''being the continuation of the closed Welfare Party (RP).'' Vural Savas, Chief Prosecutor of the Supreme Court said ''we are collecting evidences, we don't have a decision given at the moment.'' TENSION IN FP RADIKAL (LEFT)THIS LOVE ENDS HERECensure motion of the disgruntleds was rejected. Cancellation of the elections became impossible. Motion of the disgruntleds who locked Parliament since March 13 and who had hopes to cancel elections, was rejected. Motion to cancel elections was sent to Constitutional Commission. YUKSEL: CLOSE FP YENİ YÜZYIL (LIBERAL)INITIATIVES STARTED FOR VIRTUE PARTYCounter attack from the Chief Prosecutor to Erbakan. Vural Savas, Supreme Court Chief Prosecutor, who provided closure of the Welfare Party (RP), now started initiatives to close Virtue Party (FP) on charges that Erbakan, who was politically banned, was the leader behind. Nuh Mete Yuksel, State Security Court (DGM) Prosecutor, denounced Supreme Court Prosecutor's Office about FP saying that Erbakan administration FP outside. Vural Savas, who started an investigation upon the denouncement, will file a suit to close FP if he will manage to find adequate evidences. POSTPONEMENT IS ON THE SHELF OF COMMISSION TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)SHOCK DEVELOPMENT. DGM PROSECTOR IS AFTER VIRTUE PARTYNuh Mete Yuksel, State Security Court (DGM) public prosecutor, who demanded capital punishment for former Welfare Party (RP) deputies, now denounced to close Virtue Party (FP). Yuksel applied to Supreme Court Republican Prosecutorship on grounds that FP contradicted with the Political Parties Law. Yuksel showed speeches of several FP deputies, newspaper reports and ''National View'' indictment as evidence. MED-TV DARKENED ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE) MED TV IS SHUT UP END OF THE ADVENTURE [02] INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION DELEGATION COMES TO BAKUBAKU, March 23 (A.A) - The Institution of Higher Education (YOK) delegation came to Baku on Monday to have contacts and make a research about the situation of Turkish students who study there.According to an agreement which was signed earlier between Turkey and Azerbaijan, the work groups should team efforts to develop cooperation in the education field. The delegation members are expected to come together with Misir Merdanov, the Azerbaijani Education Minister on Tuesday. A total of two thousand Turkish students who are registered at the Education Counsel currently continue their studies in Azerbaijan. [03] DEMIREL AND BULGARIAN PRESIDENT STOYANOV OPENS DEMIRBANK BRANCH IN BULGARIASOFIA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel with his Bulgarian counterpart Peter Stoyanov opened the Sofia branch of Demirbank which is owned by Cingilli Holding.Demirel who spoke at the opening ceremony said that Turkey and Bulgaria are determined to work together and develop relations in every field. ''If a respected bank is opening a branch in a country, this means that country is strong. Important developments recently took place in Bulgarian economy. We want more Turkish businessmen to contribute Bulgaria's development. A bank is the leader. The businessmen would not come if there is no bank,'' Demirel said. The President stated that he encouraged Halit Cingillioglu to open a branch in Bulgaria, and added ''he has always been successful. He will be successful here too''. Demirel pointed out that the bank should give investment credits. ''Consumption is a must for the welfare of people. There can be no welfare in a country where people cannot consume what they produce,'' he said. Stoyanov who also spoke at the ceremony said, ''this means Bulgaria has a strong economy. This means there is a high level of trust between the two countries. This means you can make serious investments in Bulgaria.'' Halit Cingillioglu, the Chairman of the Cingilli Holding Executive Board, said big steps have been taken for the development of Turkish-Bulgarian relations and added that there are important investment fields in Bulgaria for Turkish investors.''We would like to give service as a mediator in business relations through our bank,'' he said. [04] STATE MINISTER SUKRU SINA GUREL SAYS MED TV SHOULD BE CLOSED PERMANENTLYANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Sukru Sina Gurel, the State Minister and Government Spokesman who spoke after the meeting of the Ministers Board meeting, said that the British Independent Television Commission's (ITC) decision to suspend the broadcasts of Med-TV, the mouthpiece of terrorist organization, is a happy and relieving news.''The ITC will ask for a defense from Med TV. If their defense is found insufficient, then Med TV's broadcast will be stopped permanently,'' he said. Gurel stated that Med TV gives orders for terrorist acts through its broadcasts and said it should be closed not for only 21 days but permanently. [05] SYRIAN DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER, SELIM YASSIN VISITS TOURISM MINISTER AHMET TANANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Selim Yassin, the Syrian Deputy Prime Minister who is responsible for Economy visited Ahmet Tan, the Tourism Minister on Monday.''This visit is important for bringing Turkey and Syria closer and opening a new page,'' Tan said. Yassin will also have talks with Hikmet Ulugbay, the State Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister during his visit to Turkey. Yassin stated that his visit aims to develop economical relations between the two countries. He also pointed out that he and Tan discussed what could be done in the tourism field which is closely related with economy. [06] FOUNDATION OF VAN THERMAL POWER PLANT TO BE LAID ON TUESDAYANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Foundation of Van Thermal Power Plant will be laid on Tuesday.A written statement regarding the issue said construction works of the power plant, which will have 20 megawatt power, will start with the foundation laying ceremony. The power plant, which will be formed as four diesel units having the power of 5 megawatts, will be completed within three months and start to produce electricity. A total of 170 million kilowatt/hour electricity production will be provided from the power plant that will be constructed by Ener Power-EGI consortium. The consortium will operate the power plant for three years. At the end of three year period, if required, energy purchase period will be extended and the company which is the owner of the power plant will continue to operate. [07] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN BULGARIASOFIA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Monday that ''Turkey and Bulgaria both of who managed to get friendship and cooperation from the history, walk confidently towards the target of constructing a mutual future on the basis of partnership and cooperation.''Addressing a dinner which Peter Stoyanov, Bulgarian President, hosted in his honor, Demirel said he was very pleased over the Kocabalkan Medal given to him and which he took on behalf of Turkish nation. Noting that Bulgaria was a friendly country which took its place in democracies community and advanced towards strengthening of its free market economy and integrate with European-Atlantic institutions to improve its economy, Demirel said, ''another development which put its seal to the past two years was the characteristical change in Turkish-Bulgarian relations. A cooperation atmosphere basing on friendship, confidence, and understanding prevails on our relations. Visit of Stoyanov to Turkey on July 1997 had been a cornerstone in this regard. The agreement signed today on 'sweeping of land mines on common borders' is a significant example proving understanding atmosphere between the two countries.'' Demirel said Turkey wishes peace and stability and increasing of economic welfare in Bulgaria, adding that ''Turkey is a real friend and cooperation partner of Bulgaria.'' Noting that legal basis of the cooperation between the two countries has been strengthened in the past 20 months, Demirel said problems coming from history have been overcomed and that a significant development has been recorded in economic and trade relations. Demirel said direct investments of Turkey to Bulgarian economy increased a lot, adding that this was an open proof of the confidence Turkish entrepreneurs have on Bulgarian economy. ''We have opened a second Turkish bank into service today in Sofia, I am sure Turkish banks in Bulgaria will add an additional dynamism to Bulgarian economy,'' Demirel stressed. President Demirel said, ''we promote Turkish construction sector to get interested in projects in Bulgaria. I believe that this interest will be welcomed by Bulgaria. East-West transportation corridor which we carry out together with Bulgaria forms the most important cornerstone in enlivening of historical Silk Road, and embracing of Asia and Europe.'' Demirel pointed out that free trade agreement between Turkey and Bulgaria opens new horizons in front of bilateral trade, adding that free trade zone, which will be formed between Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria as of the year 2002 will play a key role in turning the region into a welfare basin. ''This goal is in harmony with the targets of Black Sea Economic Cooperation,'' Demirel said. Demirel said, ''I want to mention about the cooperation which we started with Bulgaria and Romania on the issue of mutual struggle against crossborder calamities like the terrorism which threaten international peace and stability. A tripartite agreement which we signed in southern Antalya province last year is a very important document contributing to the formation of a confidence atmosphere in the Balkans and in international cooperation in struggle with terrorism. We believe that this cooperation should be broadened to include all the regional countries.'' Mentioning about Kosovo question in his address, Demirel said the situation in Kosovo reached to grave dimensions in the latest two days. Demirel said, ''Kosovon Albanians signed a transitory peace agreement and fulfilled what was expected from them. As a requirement of our responsibility in front of history, I am once again inviting Serbian administration to common sense. On the contrary, NATO's taking action will be unavoidable.'' Demirel stressed that kinsmen in Bulgaria were the most strong bridge strengthening friendship between Turkey and Bulgaria, adding that ''we wish that our kinsmen will live in Bulgaria within the framework of their rights and responsibilities and in tranquility, confidence, and welfare.'' Peter Stoyanov, Bulgarian President, in his part expressed pleasure over the development of relations and pointed out that his country expended efforts to increase the level of relations between Turkey and Bulgaria in friendly level and in the basis of cooperation basing of mutual benefit. [08] TURKEY-TURKMENISTAN - TURKMENBASI DUE IN TURKEY IN JULYASHKABAT, March 23 (A.A) - Saparmurad Turkmenbasi, President of Turkmenistan, will come to Turkey in July as the official guest of President Suleyman Demirel, it was reported on Tuesday.According to the news report of Turkmen Press, it was reported that Turkmenbasi accepted official invitation of President Suleyman Demirel. The news report said Turkmenbasi was quoted as saying ''foundations of Turkmen- Turkish brotherhood are laid which extend to the 21st century.'' Turkmenbasi will hold contacts to further improve relations and cooperation within the framework his official contacts. Detailed information about official contacts of Turkmenbasi has not been given yet. [09] PRESIDENT DEMIREL SENDS A MESSAGE TO YELTSIN AND EXPRESSES HIS SORROW OVER AN EXPLOSIONANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel on Monday sent a message to Boris Yeltsin, Russian Federation Head of State, and expressed his sorrow over an explosion which happened in North Osetya.A Presidential Press Center statement said that Demirel expressed sorrow over the news reports that many Russian people were killed and wounded in an explosion in Northern Osetya. In the message, Demirel said: ''Turkey condemns this terrorist attack and I once again want to state the importance we attribute to the stability and welfare of Russian federation.'' ''I sent my condolonces to the families of the people who lost their lives in the attack,'' Demirel said. [10] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN BULGARIA - DEMIREL RECEIVES BULGARIAN CHIEF MUFTI OFFICE DELEGATION AND AHMET DOGAN, LEADER OF RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS MOVEMENTSOFIA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel separately met with a delegation of Bulgarian Chief Mufti Office and Ahmet Dogan, leader of Rights and Freedoms Movement on Monday.Responding to the questions of President Suleyman Demirel, officials of the delegation said there was a freedom in fulfilling their religious duties more than they expected, yet added that ''there are issues which we feel uneasy. They will be solved in time.'' President Demirel said everything would be better in the future, adding that ''today's administration knows very well the bridge role of Turks and Moslems to Turkey. They know well the importance we attribute to this. This bridge should stand still in our friendship with Bulgaria. The target of our efforts is to provide comfort of our kinsmen.'' [11] CONTACTS OF SYRIAN DELEGATION - YASSIN, SYRIAN DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER, VISITS TUMEN, MINISTER OF STATEANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Salim Yassin, Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Responsible for Economic Affairs, and an accompanying delegation visited Aydin Tumen, Minister of State on Tuesday.Aydin Tumen also acts as the Co-Chairman of Turkish-Syrian Joint Economic Commission (JEC). The meeting was closed to the press. Bilateral economic and trade relations between Turkey and Syria were discussed during the meeting. [12] 4TH BALKAN DENTISTS CONGRESS STARTSISTANBUL, March 23 (A.A) - The 4th Balkan Dentists Congress staged under the auspices of President Suleyman Demirel, started inLutfi Kirdar International Congress and Exhibition Palace, it was reported on Tuesday. Prof. Nuri Yazicioglu, Chairman of the Congress, addressing the opening ceremony, said it was a success that small number of scientists came to realize the congress although tranquility and confidence could not be provided in the Balkans yet. Dimitri Karakasis, Chairman of Balkan Dentists Union, in his part stressed that friendship and cooperation ties which the scientists will form in the congress will contribute to the peace in the region. Erol Cakir, Istanbul Governor, speaking during the congress said nearly 2, 000 dentists from 30 countries participated in the congress and stressed that ''when the tension experienced in the Balkans today is taken into consideration, importance of this organization can be understood.'' Cakir said Turkey was a strong country pointing out that ''yet, there are countries around who want to prevent this. Among the 50 Islam countries, only Turkey is administered with democracy.'' Cakir said Turkey has neighbours who want to reach a result with terrorism, adding that they were not able to succeed in the past and will not be able to succeed in the future. Many dentists from Turkey, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Greek Cypriot Side, Greece, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Romania, Albania, Macedonia and Turkish republics participate in the Congress. The congress envisages cooperation and exchange of information on the issue of stomatology. The latest developments in dentistry and dental care will also be taken up at the congress. The Colgate firm has undertaken the sponsorship of the congress. [13] ''BUILD-OPERATE-TRANSFER''MODEL IN RAILWAYSANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - ''Build-Operate-Transfer'' model, which is widely used in energy power plants, will be used for the first time in railway construction.140-km Alanya-Antalya railway construction, which General Directorate of Railways Harbours and Airports (DLH) took in its investment program for the year 1999, will be constructed with ''build-operate-transfer'' system. Studies of the international tender were concluded by DLH General Directorate regarding the construction of the railway in question. Nearly 20 Turkish and foreign companies are interested in the tender and the application date is specified as April 14, 1999. Alanya-Antalya railway will be handed over to Turkish Railroad Company (TCDD) after being operated by the constructor company grouop for sometime. [14] EXPORTS OF HAZELNUTS DECREASE BY 155 MILLION U.S. DOLLARSTRABZON, March 23 (A.A) - There has been a fall in the exports of hazelnuts since the beginning of the 1998-1999 export season started on 1 September, it was reported on Tuesday.Officials at the Black Sea Hazelnut Exporters' Union said they obtained 567 million 958 thousand U.S. dollars foreign exchange income from the exports of 138 thousand 459 tonnes hazelnuts since the beginning of the 1998-99 export season. In the same period last year, a total of 158 thousand 712 tonnes hazelnuts worth 722.1 million U.S. dolars were exported. Officials said the amount of exported hazelnuts decreased by nearly 20 thousand tonnes and the foreign exchange income dropped by 155 million U.S. dollars, stressing that the European buyers are unwilling to purchase hazelnuts of which the prices were lower than the prices in the previous season due to high production in 1998. [15] A TOTAL OF 28 ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, INCLUDING TWO FOREIGNERS, CAPTURED IN NORTHWESTERN TEKIRDAG PROVINCETEKIRDAG, March 23 (A.A) - A total of 28 illegal immigrants, including one Iranian, and one Bangladeshi, who wanted to leave Turkey illegally, were captured in northwestern Tekirdag province on Tuesday.Tekirdag Harbour Customs told A.A correspondent that they captured these illegal immigrants in the control they made in a truck. The driver of the truck said in his interrogation that he had taken 200 German marks per person to take them to Italy and that the mediator had taken 500 and 1000 German marks. Meanwhile, it is revealed that one of the captured persons was wanted on charges of aiding the terrorist organization PKK and of theft, another one was wanted on charges of drugs, and using fake identity cards while another was wanted on charges of illegally carrying people abroad, and the other was wanted on charges of using fake identity cards. It is reported that the interrogation of 28 illegal immigrants continues, and that the customs officials confiscated the truck. [16] CETIN, SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT, RECEIVES YASSIN, DEPUTY PREMIER OF SYRIA - CETIN: ''A BRIGHT PERIOD STARTED BETWEEN TURKEY AND SYRIA WITH THE ADANA AGREEMENT SIGNED ON 20 OCTOBER 1998''ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Hikmet Cetin, the Speaker of Parliament and the Acting President, said on Tuesday that the relations between Turkey and Syria are very important, adding, ''a bright period started between the two countries with the Adana Agreement which was signed on 20 October 1998.''Cetin received the same day Dr. Selim Yassin, the Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Responsible for Economic Affairs. Cetin said Syria is Turkey's long border neighbor, so the relations between the two countries are very important. Stressing that further development and existence of good bilateral relations is beneficial for both the two countries, Hikmet Cetin said, ''our two countries experienced an uneasy and troublesome period in the past. However, a bright period started between Turkey and Syria with the Adana Agreement.'' Pointing out that Turkey's wish is to leave behind the problems in the past, and start a constructive period, Cetin said, ''because, there are several common issues between Turkey and Syria like history and culture. Besides, there is an important economic, political, and cultural potential between our two countries. It will be beneficial for both Turkey and Syria if this potential is well evaluated, and based on good neighborhood principles, and at the same time this will contribute to peace and stability in the region.'' Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Selim Yassin said he was pleased with the warm interest shown on his visit to Turkey. Guest Minister said that they discussed the issue of development of economic relations between Turkey and Syria during his contacts, and they reached a consensus in each talk. Stating that the development of relations between the two countries is in the advantage of Turkish and Syrian peoples, Yassin said, ''there are several opportunities for the development of economic and commercial cooperation between our two countries. We, as Syria, want to improve our relations with Turkey in every field.'' [17] ''ANZAC DAY'' CELEBRATIONS - OZBOY, CANAKKALE GOVERNOR: ''WE ARE READY TO HOST ANZACS''CANAKKALE, March 23 (A.A) - Ekrem Ozsoy, Canakkale Governor, said on Tuesday that they are ready to host Australian and New Zealander tourists who are also called ''Anzacs''.Recalling that they celebrate the ''Anzac Day'' in the Gripoli Peninsula of western Canakkale province with the grandchildren of Anzacs coming from Australia and New Zealand on April 25, Ozsoy noted that they have taken all the necessary security measures for the tourists who will arrive in Canakkale. Noting that they know the meaning of the celebration of the anniversary of the Anzac landing for the countries which participated in the landing, and that they expect that many important persons will attend this year's celebration, Ozsoy said, ''we expect that Australian General Governor will attend the celebration of the 84th anniversary of the Anzac landing which will be held on April 25. We stated that Canakkale is a safe province and a province which continuously hosts tourists, in our contacts with the Australian authorities. We also told them that we have taken all the necessary security measures and that they should not have any hesitation about this.'' [18] TAN, MINISTER OF TOURISM, SENDS LETTERS TO THE TOURISM MINISTERS OF 19 COUNTRIES - TAN: ''ALL KINDS OF MEASURES ARE TAKEN BY THE TURKISH AUTHORITIES TO PROVIDE THE SECURITY AND WELFARE OF THE FOREIGN TOURISTS''ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Ahmet Tan, the Minister of Tourism, sent letters on Tuesday to the Ministers of Tourism of Japan, Britain, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Netherlands, Ireland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Iceland, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, and Greece, as the publications of the terrorist organization PKK which incline to scare the tourists coming to Turkey increased.A Tourism Ministry statement said that Tan stated that all kinds of measures are taken by the Turkish authorities to provide the security and welfare of the foreign tourists. Drawing the attention that the real aim of the broadcasting organs of the terrorist organization PKK which broadcasts statements against the laws is changing the ideas of the foreign tourists in coming to Turkey in the eve of the Easter, Tan said, ''the efforts to capture the assailants of the terrorists attacks in the last days in Turkey are underway. Besides, all kinds of measures are taken by the Turkish authorities to provide the security and welfare of the foreign tourists.'' Stating that the broadcastings of the terrorist organization PKK should never be taken into consideration, Tan noted that only the diplomatic missions should be considered as the credible sources of information of the respected and impartial news agencies. Noting that the foreign visitors coming to Turkey are welcomed in the best way in order to make them feel the unique cultural heritage, the various and fertile natural beauties of Turkey, Tan drew the attention to the increase in the number of tourists coming to Turkey in the last five years. Tan said, ''the tourists have not faced any damages and trouble although there was terrorism in Turkey for some time, and they have returned safely to their countries after having a good time in Turkey. This is the proof that Turkey gives importance to the security of the tourists.'' [19] CLOSURE OF MED-TV - AKARCALI, CHAIRMAN OF TURKISH DEMOCRACY FOUNDATION: - ''THE GOVERNMENT IS OBLIGED TO FOLLOW THE ISSUE NOT ONLY DIPLOMATICALLY, BUT ALSO LEGALLY''ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Bulent Akarcali, the Chairman of the Turkish Democracy Foundation (TDV) and a Motherland Party (ANAP) deputy from Istanbul, said on Tuesday that Turkey should follow the issue of the closure of the Med-TV, the television channel of the terrorist PKK organization, not only diplomatically but also legally.Issuing a written statement, Akarcali recalled that they, as the TDV, launched several initiatives for the closure of Med-TV, adding that one of those initiatives was realized at the Independent Television Commission (ITC) in Britain. Pointing out that the ITC responded that initiative saying that they punished the Med-TV with a 90 thousand British Pounds fine (nearly 45 billion Turkish Liras) in early 1998 with charges of broadcasting biased programmes inciting violence, Akarcali said, ''besides, also Britain accepted in 1998 that there were new problems in the programmes of the Med- TV and the ITC warned that it can get back the broadcast licence. However, there is a need for a specific period to get back the broadcast licence. Within this content, the broadcast licence of Med-TV can be taken back till May.'' Calling the government to take up the issue through a lawyer in Britain, Akarcali said he sent letters to Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit and Foreign Minister Ismail Cem to this end. [20] GENERAL STETSENCO, THE UKRANIAN AIR DEFENSE FORCES COMMANDER, VISITS GENERAL KILIC, THE AIR FORCES COMMANDERANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - General Oleksandr Stetsenco, the Ukranian Air Defense Forces Commander, visited on Tuesday General Ilhan Kilic, the Air Forces Commander.Addressing a speech prior to the meeting, Kilic said that he will exchange views with General Stetsenco about the training cooperation between the air forces of the two countries, and about the control of the air spaces over the Black Sea. Stetsenco said that the aim of his visit is the improvement of the military relations between Turkey and Ukraine, adding that he wished that this meeting would bring peace, friendship and fraternity to the two nations. Responding a question of a journalist on the military intervention to Kosovo, Kilic said that they will realize the air defense mission in case NATO gives such command. [21] INDUSTRY AND TRADE MINISTRY REQUIRES ''YEAR 2000 CONCORDANCE LICENCE'' FOR IMPORT OF ELECTRONICAL DEVICEANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - The Industry and Trade Ministry will not issue an import permission for electronical devices which do not have ''Year 2000 Concordance Licence'', it was reported on Tuesday.The General Directorate of the Industry and Trade Ministry announced that they will limit the import of such equipment in order to minimize the loss caused by the possible computer failure to recognize the change in the last two digits, known as ''the millenium bug''. The Ministry requires Year 2000 Concordance Licence in all electronical equipment to be imported to Turkey. The Industry and Trade Ministry authorities said they expect a financial loss between 2.2 billion and 6.3 billion U.S. dollars in Turkey because of ''the millenium bug'' and added that they are working to minimize this figure. The millenium bug might cause a wide range of problems in daily life from the calculations of the interest rates in the banks to the operating of lifts. Any electronical device which do not have the ''Year 2000 Concordance Licence'' will not be allowed through the customs, the ministry reported. [22] THE CONTACTS OF THE SYRIAN DELEGATION - AKTAN, THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORTATION: - ''WE WILL REVISE OUR RELATIONS IN THE RAILWAY AND HIGHWAY TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES'' - YASSIN, SYRIAN DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER: - ''THE TRANSPORTATION AND THE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES SHOULD REACH THE DESIRED LEVEL''ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Hasan Basri Aktan, the Minister of Transportation, said on Tuesday that they will revise the relations in the railway and highway transportation between Turkey and Syria.The Syrian delegation headed by Salim Yassin, the Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Responsible From the Economic Affairs, visited Aktan in his office, and they held a meeting for some time. Emphasizing that the two countries are ''friend, neighbour, and sister'', Aktan noted that they will exchange views about the transportation services between the two countries. Aktan said, ''we will revise our relations in the railway and highway transportation between the two countries. We will discuss what can be done to solve the problems if there are any. In this context, we will revise the mutual demands in the air transportation.'' Aktas stated that their meeting will be a good opportunity to solve the transportation problems between two countries. Yassin said that they will exchange views about the issues like the cooperation in military and transportation fields in their meeting. Pointing out that the Turkish and Syrian officials has a common will and desire in improving the relations between the two countries in every field, Yassin noted that they will discuss the issues which will contribute to the common interests of the two nations, adding that they desire improving the economic and commercial relations as well as the transportation and the communication services between the two countries because the transportation and communication forms the basis of the relations. Drawing the attention that Turkey and Syria have a neighbourhood relation arising from being border countries, Yassin stressed that the improvement of the relations will strengthen the ties between the two sister nations and that some problems can occur in the maintenance of cooperation between the two nations, adding that they will discuss solving these problems in their contacts if there are any. [23] AKTAS, THE MINISTER OF ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES: - ''WE WILL CARRY OUT INITIATIVES FOR THE PERMANENT CLOSURE OF MED-TV'' - ''WE ARE DETERMINED, WE WILL DRY THE SWAMP''VAN, March 23 (A.A) - Ziya Aktas, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, said on Tuesday that they will continue to carry out initiatives for the permanent closure of Med-tv, the broadcasting organ of the terrorist organization PKK, from which it calls its supporters to stage bloody attacks.Addressing a statement in his visit to Van for election campaign of the Democratic Left Party (DSP), Aktas recalled that the Med-tv calls for terrorism and separatism for many years, adding that they get the first positive results of their initiatives for putting an end to the broadcastings of Med-tv which promotes hatred and revenge for years and that they will carry out initiatives for the permanent closure of Med-tv from now on. Stating that the terrorist chief was captured and the terrorism was hampered, Aktas said, ''we are determined. We will dry the swamp. Nobody can separate Turkey. Everbody in this country will live in friendship.'' [24] BILICAN, CHIEF OF POLICE: - ''WE CAPTURED THREE TERRORISTS IN RELATION WITH THE ARSON ATTACK ON MAVI CARSI KILLING 13 PEOPLE, AND A TERRORIST IN CONNECTION WITH THE CAR BOMB EXPLOSION KILLING THE CAB DRIVER'' - ''3,402 PEOPLE WERE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY DURING THE INCIDENTS OCCURED IN NEWROZ DAY''ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Necati Bilican, the Cheif of Police, said on Tuesday that they captured three terrorists in relation with the arson attack on the Mavi Carsi (Blue Market) shopping mall in Istanbul which killed 13 people. Bilican said the two of the terrorists realized the attack while one of them planned it.Bilican said they also detained a terrorist in connection with the car bomb explosion in front of the Carousel Shopping Center, killing the cab driver. Explaining that Akin Yavas, 39, who was captured by police late on Monday, is the planner of the arson attack and he was born in Kulp county of southeastern Diyarbakir province, Bilican said it was determined that this terrorist received bomb training in Romania and illegally entered into Turkey. Bilican added that Akin Yavas was previously convicted of participating in several illegal activities. Noting that a terrorist, who was determined to be the perpetrator of the car bomb explosion in front of the Carousel Shopping Center in Istanbul killing the cab driver, was also captured by police, Bilican recalled that two terrorists were killed in Merter and Yenibosna when they clashed with police following the investigation of police into those attacks. Bilican said a number of bombs and arms were found on these terrorists. Staging a press conference at the Diretorate General of Security, Bilican gave information about the incidents happened in Turkey following the apprehension of chief terrorist Abdullah Ocalan on 15 February. Noting that the number of bomb and petrol bomb attacks staged by terrorists increased after the capture of chief terrorist, Bilican said that security forces took reinforced and strict measures against those illegal and violent activities. Bilican said that Newroz symbolizes spring, but the terrorist groups have staged such activities and Newroz has been misused for years. Bilican said that a total of 67 violent incidents occured in Newroz day despite all measures and the police acted with common sense by warning the demonstrators during those incidents. Noting that a total of 3,402 people were taken into custody during those incidents, Bilican said they released 2,361 of them while 208 of them were sent to juridical authorities. Stating that 833 people are still kept under detention, Bilican said a total of 387 people were detained in Newroz by Gendarmerie officials, recalling that five policemen and two terrorists were injured by shots as a result of armed attacks. Stressing that the security organization has a very powerful structure, Bilican said they have already started to take tight measures in touristic regions. Bilican stressed that the people, who want to prevent the tourists from visiting Turkey, put forward biased news and rumors to infect tourism in Turkey. ''Turkey is a safe country. There is not anything to be afraid of coming here,'' Bilican emphasized. [25] CAMPAIGN AGAINST MED-TV IN BELGIUMBRUSSELS, March 23 (A.A) - The residents of Denderleeuw county near Brussels, Belgium started a campaign to close the studios of the Med-tv, the broadcasting organ of the terrorist PKK organization, and applied to the Mayor's Office to this end, it was reported on Tuesday.The Denderleeuw residents, who said that they have been expending efforts and carrying out a campaign to send away the supporters of the terorist organization from their county, stated that idle young girls and children were walking around the studios, and they saw unknown people strolling in the streets at nights causing suspicion and uneasiness among them. They said the supporters of terrorist organization created serious security problem and staged several political activities, stressing that they are insisted on the closure of Med-tv studios. [26] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN BULGARIA - DEMIREL PROCEEDS TO PLOVDIVPLOVDIV, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel proceeded to Plovdiv from Stanboliiski and visited the old part of the city including authentic buildings and ancient theatre, it was reported on Tuesday.Within the framework of his official visit to Bulgaria, President Demirel, who opened a pasteboard factory of the Turkish Isiklar Holding in Stanboliiski, proceeded to Plovdiv via motorway. President Demirel and his wife Nazmiye Demirel were welcomed by Bulgarian President Petar Stoyanov. Later, President Demirel and Bulgarian President Stoyanov visited the historical Saint Konstantin Church. Demirel and Stoyanov, who later visited the house of Bulgaria's most famous painter Zlatko Boyaciev who died in 1976, visited the ancient theatre. Later, President Demirel and his wife Nazmiye Demirel attended the luncheon given in their honor by Bulgarian President and his wife. [27] INITIATIVES FOR NAVAL CRUISES BETWEEN GIRNE-ANTALYA-RHODESLEFKOSA, March 23 (A.A) - Fergun Naval Company of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) plans to arrange naval cruises between Girne, Antalya and the Rhodes Island, it is reported on Tuesday.An official from the Fergun Naval Company told A.A correspondent that they applied to the TRNC Ports Unit to get a second flag for their vessels and that their application is being investigated. The official said that they will start the cruises between Girne, Antalya, and the Rhodes Island as soon as they get the second flag permission. The official noted that they plan to start their cruises between Girne, Antalya and the Rhodes Island, adding that they think about making the cruises to all the Greek Islands. [28] ECONOMICAL REPORT SAYS BANKING WAS LAST YEARS MOST PROFITABLE SECTOR WHILE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR LOSTESKISEHIR, March 23 (A.A) - Banking was the most profitable and automotive was the least profitable sectors of 1998, according to a research done by Osmangazi University Technology Research Center (TEKAM), it was reported on Tuesday.The research titled ''Economical Situation Analysis'' showed that the companies who operate in sectors with a big cash flow were not effected by the fiancial crisis. On the other hand, the companies or institutions who entered this shaky period with stocks had big losses. ''Generally, companies who use credits have been hit by the crisis. We experienced a financing bottleneck because of the high interest rates and credit costs,'' Muammer Kaya, the head of TEKAM explained. The research results also showed that retail, telecommunication, energy, tourism, oil, and its derivatives, management of supermarkets, chicken breeding, cement, tobacco-beer-alcohol, machinery, fertilizer, aliminium, food, computer, paper, battery and beverage sectors come after banking as profitable sectors. Among the most unprofitable sectors are automotive, textile, paint, ceramic, tire, frozen food, health, durable goods, construction material, pipes, mineral, iron and bricks. ''It is very hard to estimate which sectors will survive in 1999. It is believed that the crisis can be overcome if the powers are united. There is a need for fewer but more powerful companies, institutions, and banks instead of small but plenty of companies. Because in the globalizing world, even the giant companies unite to decrease their personnel, management, and service costs, and increase their competitive power. Political and economical instabilities effect all sectors negatively,'' it was said in the research report. ''Turkey's sectoral strategies must be determined, reforms must be made, Turkey's chances to benefit from the world economy must be increased, and ways must be sought to make Turkey get a bigger share from the international trade,'' the report concluded. [29] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN BULGARIA - DEMIREL: ''A NEW WORLD IS FORMED IN THE LAST DECADE'' - ''IN TODAY'S WORLD, THE COUNTRIES WHICH CAN OPEN THEIR DOORS TO OTHER COUNTRIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR OWN INTERESTS WILL BE THE WINNERS'' - ''THE WELFARE OF THE PEOPLE CAN BE PROVIDED IN SUCH COMPETITION''STANBOLIISKI, March 23 (A.A) - Presiedent Suleyman Demirel said on Tuesday that a new world is being formed in the last decade and that in today's world, the countries which can open their doors to other countries in accordance with their own interests will be the winners, adding that the welfare of the people will be provided in such competition.Demirel went to Stanboliiski city of Bulgaria and attended the opening ceremony of the paste board factory which was bought and modernized by Turkish Isiklar Holding. Ivan Atanasov, the Mayor of Stanboliiski, said in his speech in the ceremony that the modernation of the factory will contribute to the regional economy and requested that the Turkish investments should increase. Riza Isık, the Chairman of the Executive Board of Isıklar Holding, said that the modernized paste board factory is the biggest of the Balkans and they bought 82 percent of the factory within the framework of privatization. Demirel said that the world is going towards a new understanding, a new business order, adding that the slogan of the world in the threshold of 21st century is ''work together, live together'' and that the ones who can understand this can be happy. Demirel said, ''this means peace and security. The statesmen, the politicians, the philosophers think about a world living in peace for a long time. Of a world in which the people can understand each other better, accept each other, tolerate each other. Such a world is approaching.'' Demirel added, ''Riza Isık bought a factory in Bulgaria and put a Swedish director on the top of the factory. Bulgarian workers will work in the factory, the Finnish engineers realized the project of the factory. This means 'work together, live together.' The thing we see here is the event of the 21st century. The event of being friends instead of being enemies.'' Demirel noted that hundreds of workers will be employed in the factory and that Bulgaria will realize exports worth of 50 million U.S. dollars. Noting that the Turkish businessmen launched efforts to operate many installations in Bulgaria, Demirel said, ''in today's world, the countries which can open their doors to other countries in accordance with their own interests will be the winners. The entrepreneurship power of Turkey is beyond the borders. Turkish entrepreneurs are operating in many countries. But, Turkey is open to the foreign businessmen and many foreign businessmen are working in Turkey. This is today's world.'' ''A new world is formed in the last decade. Turkey is aware of this. Our sister Bulgaria is aware of this. Eleven countries which want to set up a peace circle around the Black Sea are aware of this. Everybody will benefit from the expriences of the others. This is solidarity,'' Demirel added. [30] TALKS BETWEEN TURKEY AND SYRIA END - TURKEY AND SYRIA TO COOPERATE IN TRANSPORTATIONANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Turkey and Syria will carry out a joint study to overcome the problems in transportation, it was reported on Tuesday.The meetings between the Turkish and Syrian officials which continued for two days in Ankara concluded the same day. Salim Yassin, the Syrian Deputy Prime Minister responsible for economic affairs who arrived in Turkey on Monday as the guest of Hikmet Ulugbay, the Minister of State and the Deputy Prime Minister, and the accompanying delegation met with the Turkish delegation led by Ulugbay. Speaking to reporters following the one-hour interdelegationary meetings, Ulugbay said that they prepared a document on the issues on which they reached an agreement. Stressing that commercial and economic relations between the two countries have an important potential, Ulugbay said that they decided to continue joint studies to improve those relations. Pointing out that in this respect, the drafts for the agreement on prevention of double taxation and the drafts for the agreement on protection and encouragement of investments were mutually changed, Ulugbay said, ''the negotiations will be finalized when the studies are concluded by the concerned institutions.'' Noting that they also decided to make studies to develop cooperation in the field of tourism, Hikmet Ulugbay said that they reached a consensus on the development of mutual relations in tourism and mutually evaluation of tourism potentials of Turkey and Syria. Stating that they reached an agreement on encouragement of mutual visits of delegations from Turkish and Syrian chambers of industry and commerce to improve the trade, Ulugbay said, ''thus the basis for improvement of commercial and industrial relations between the two countries during the direct talks of the Turkish and Syrian businessmen was prepared. Besides, we agreed to carry out a joint study to overcome problems in transportation.'' When asked whether or not they discussed the issued of energy and water problems, Ulugbay said they didn't discuss those issues. Guest Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Salim Yassin and the accompanying delegation will leave Turkey the same day. [31] DESTINED GLORY-99 OPERATION - THE OPERATION IN WHICH TURKEY AND 7 NATO COUNTRIES WILL JOIN WILL BE HELD BETWEEN APRIL 1 AND 9 IN DOGANBEY AND SAROZ GULFS OF THE AEGEAN SEAANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Destined Glory-99 Operation will be hosted by Turkey and will be held between April 1 and 9 in Doganbey and Saroz Gulfs of the Aegean Sea, it is reported on Tuesday.The General Staff statement said that the Destined Glory-99 is the biggest of the NATO operations. Stressing that eight NATO countries including Turkey, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Britain, and the U.S. will participate in the operation with their naval, air, and amphibic forces, the statement noted that the aim of the operation is realizing the concept of CAFMED (Combined Amphibious Force of Mediterrenean) in the South region of NATO and is improving the strategy, the application opportunities, and capabilities of NATO in this issue. Pointing out that 45 vessels, 28 air-crafts, 36 helicopters, and almost 2, 800 personnel will participate in the operation, the statement said that Turkish Naval Forces will participate in the operation with a total of 14 amphibious vessels, frigates, submarines, mine vessels, assault boat and amphibious naval infantry battalions, and the Turkish Air Forces will participate with F-16 and F-4 aircrafts. The statement added that the amphibious training in Doganbey and Saroz Gulfs of the Aegean Sea, the above water, air defense, and submarine war trainings, and the active shootings in the Aegean action region will be held within the framework of the operation. [32] TURKISH AND BULGARIAN SIDES AGREE ON COOPERATION AGAINST TERRORISM, ORGANIZED CRIME, AND DRUG TRAFFICKING DURING DEMIREL'S VISIT TO BULGARIAANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel paid a two day visit to Bulgaria on March 22 and 23 following the invitation of Petar Stoyanov, the Bulgarian President.Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister and the deputies Ali Dincer, Cavit Caglar and Necdet Menzir were among those who accompanied Demirel during his visit. Demirel and Stoyanov reviewed the developing relations between Turkey and Bulgaria and also signed an Elimination of Anti-Personnel Mines agreement. Through the agreement, both sides proved their determination to participate actively in the international community's efforts to eliminate the anti- personnel mines totally. The Presidents of the two countries discussed the Free Trade Agreement between Turkey and Bulgaria which came into effect on January 1, 1999. The group of Turkish business people accompanying Demirel had a meeting with their Bulgarian counterparts in order to further strengthen the traditional business relations between the two countries. Demirel and Stoyanov also expressed willingness to encourage the construction of new regional infrastructures. The presidents of the two countries noted the cooperation between the Defense Ministries and the General Staffs Turkey and Bulgaria. They expressed satisfaction about the expanding cooperation between the Interior Ministries of the two countries in their fight against terrorism, organized crime, and drug and weapon trafficking. The presidents reaffirmed their countries determination to eliminate these threats. The issues of preserving peace, stability, and cooperation in south eastern Europe were widely discussed during their meeting. As far as the Kosovo conflict is concerned, the two presidents expressed their support for a solution through political means, a solution which would guarantee the life, security, and the rights of all citizens of Kosovo regardless of their ethnic origin. President Demirel confirmed the Turkish support to Bulgarian access to the NATO and said he will repeat this at the forthcoming Washington Summit. Ismail Cem, the Turkish Foreign Minister and his counterpart Mrs. Nadezhda Mihailova reviewed the present state of Turkish-Bulgarian relations and their further development. President Demirel also attended the opening of Demirbank's branch in Sofia. The Turkish side stressed its wish to open a trade and culture center in Sofia and the Bulgarian authorities responded that they would give their request consideration. Demirel also invited Stoyanov to Turkey sometime next year. [33] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN BULGARIA - DEMIREL: ''BOTH BULGARIA AND TURKEY FEEL UNEASY ABOUT THE SITUATION IN KOSOVO'' - STOYANOV, BULGARIAN PRESIDENT: ''THE VISIT OF DEMIREL HAS BEEN VERY EFFICIENT''PLOVDIV, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Tuesday that both Turkey and Bulgaria feel uneasy about the situation in Kosovo, adding that they hope that a peaceful solution to the Kosova dispute can be found in the following hours.Addressing a speech following a luncheon given by Peter Stoyanov, the Bulgarian President and his wife to the honor of President Demirel and Nazmiye Demirel, his wife; Demirel thanked for the hospitality shown for himself and for his delegation. Demirel said, ''we exchanged views about improving all kinds of relations between the two countries. Implementation of the agreements between the two countries and having positive results will be possible. We will continue to have cooperation in every field.'' ''We discussed the regional problems. Both Bulgaria and Turkey feel uneasy about the situation in Kosovo. We hope that a peaceful solution to the Kosovo dispute can be found in the following hours,'' Demirel added. Stoyanov said that the visit of President Demirel has been very effective, adding that the visit of Demirel has made a contribution to the efforts of accelerating the bilateral relations. Stoyanov noted that the Turkish companies can make investments in many fields in Bulgaria. [34] TURKISH-THAI JEC MEETINGS - TURKEY AND THAILAND SIGN UNDERSTANDING OF MEMORANDUM ON MEASURES WHICH CAN BE TAKEN TO FURTHER IMPROVE BILATERAL TRADEANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - Turkey and Thailand signed on Tuesday a memorandum of understanding on the measures which can be taken to further develop the bilateral trade.The Turkish-Thai Economic and Technical Cooperation Joint Committee Secod Term Meeting was held the same day in Ankara. The measures, which can be taken to further improve the trade between the two countries, were discussed at the meeting between the Turkish delegation led by Yavuz Ege, the the Undersecretary of Foreign Trade, and the Thai delegation led by Sukhumbhan Paribatra, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Thailand. In accordance with the decision made at the meeting, regular mutual participation in fairs, exhibitions, and seminars will be provided to grant the bilateral trade a balanced structure. The officials decided to hold regular cooperation and joint business committee meetings to develop the trade between the two countries. [35] TAN, MINISTER OF TOURISM, LEAVES FOR MOSCOW - ''WE WANT TO SEE THE RUSSIAN TOURISTS IN TURKEY ALSO THIS YEAR''ISTANBUL, March 23 (A.A) - Ahmet Tan, the Minister of Tourism, said on Tuesday that there are important signals that the reservation problem which appeared recently was overcome.Tan left the same day for Russia to attend the Toriam Fair in Moscow. Prior to his departure from the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Tan said that Turkey hosts one million Russian tourists a year, adding, ''we want to see the Russian tourists in Turkey also this year.'' Pointing out that the State Duma, the lower chamber of the Russian Parliament, defined Turkey as a secure, safe, cheerful, merry, relaxing and entertaining country, Tan said, ''as a result of this, I will attend the ceremony for ''Tourism Sympathies'' award to be given to Turkey.'' Stressing that Turkey experienced a reservation problem due to the threats of the terrorist organization, Tan said, ''however, there are important signals that reservation problem was overcome. The most concrete response concerning the issue came from Austria which announced Turkey as a country which showed stability in security since 1993 and where the tourists can have a good time and relax under the umbrella of security.'' ''Turkey took part in the tourism sector in a broad region reaching Japan from China. We can meet the possible cancellations of European countries from other fields,'' Tan said. Stressing that a bright period started with Syria, Tourism Minister Ahmet Tan said, ''our relations with Syria are improving. We will accelerate the existing Tourism Cooperation Agreement with Syria.'' [36] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RETURNS TO TURKEY FROM BULGARIA: ''WE'VE HELD COMPREHENSIVE MEETINGS CONCERNING REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES''ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Tuesday after returning from Bulgaria to Turkey that ''we've held comprehensive meetings with Bulgarian President and other officials concerning bilateral relations, regional and international issues.''Addressing a statement at Esenboga Airport, President Demirel said that they discussed what could be done in order to further improve and diversify the existing cooperation between the two countries. Noting that they also signed the agreement on sweeping off antipersonnel mines on the common border of the two countries, President Demirel said that ''we focused on the measures that have to be taken in order to strengthen our economic and commercial relations. We have one billion dollars of trade volume and 500 million dollars of direct Turkish investments in Bulgaria. We opened a second Turkish bank and Turkish paper mill in Sofia. Bulgaria rapidly comes one of the most important cooperation partners of Turkey. Secondly we focused on cooperation with terrorism and organized crimes during our visit, which pleases us. We also met with our kinsmen and listened to their problems. Turkey, which is a world state, serves the common prosperity, peace and stability of a young geography.'' President Demirel added that his visit to Bulgaria is useful for further improvement of the cooperation and common relations between the two countries in all fields. [37] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RESPONDS TO QUESTIONS OF JOURNALISTS ON THE PLANE FROM BULGARIA TO TURKEYPLOVDIV-ANKARA, March 23 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Tuesday that his visit to Bulgaria was very useful and necessary.Responding to questions of journalists on the plane from Bulgaria to Turkey, President Demirel stated that Turkey attributes great importance to Bulgaria and Romania, adding relations with the former developed very well after 1990s. Noting that the economic relations between Turkey and Bulgaria are pleasing, President Demirel said ''however another important thing is the industrial installations which were purchased by Turkish enterpreneurs and which started production. Secondly our kinsmen living in this country have problems such as unemployment. Many of them migrate to Turkey secretly. The Bulgarian government has a state policy of not evacuating these places. We've discussed all of these. Inclusion of Bulgaria in Europe will be beneficial for us in many respects.'' ''On one side of Turkey there is Euroasia, one the other side there is the Balkans. There are Gulf countries in south of Turkey. There are Ukraine and Russia in the north. Turkey have to balance her relations with each of them. Turkish enterpreneurs, who go beyond borders don't only help other countries, but also hold some contacts which are beneficial to their country,'' President Demirel added. A.A Anadolu Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article |
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