Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-05-26

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AA Daily

26 May 1999 Wednesday

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] SAHINBAS, FM DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARY, TO REPRESENT TURKEY IN EU POLITICAL DIRECTORS MEETING

[03] OECD MINISTERS' COMMITTEE TO CONVENE IN PARIS ON WEDNESDAY

[04] GENERAL KIVRIKOGLU, CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF, AND FORCE COMMANDERS CARRY OUT INVESTIGATIONS IN MAIN JET BASE IN BALIKESIR

[05] ALIYEV, AZERBAIJANI PRESIDENT, IN SOUTHERN ANTALYA PROVINCE - ALIYEV: ''THE FRIENDLY RELATIONS BETWEEN AZERBAIJAN AND TURKEY IMPROVE DAY BY DAY''

[06] ''GOLDEN PERSONS OF THE YEAR'' AWARD CEREMONY - PRESIDENT DEMIREL, PREMIER ECEVIT, BAYAR, INTERIOR MINISTER AND GULER, A.A DIRECTOR GENERAL, GIVEN AWARD IN CEREMONY

[07] GERMAN JOURNALISTS IN SOUTHERN ANTALYA PROVINCE

[08] TUSIAD DELEGATION TO HOLD CONTACTS IN GERMANY AS GUEST OF GERMAN INDUSTRIALISTS CONFEDERATION PRIOR TO EU SUMMIT

[09] TURKISH-RUSSIAN ECONOMIC RELATIONS - KILIC, HEAD OF TURKISH-RUSSIAN BUSINESS COUNCIL: - ''IT WILL BE USEFUL TO ACT WITH THIRD COUNTRIES TO REALIZE MORE INITIATIVES WITH RUSSIA''

[10] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN ''TAKSIM MEETINGS''

[11] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES IN ''TAKSIM MEETINGS''

[12] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES IN ''TAKSIM MEETINGS'' - DEMIREL: ''TURKEY IS A WORLD STATE AND WILL REMAIN SO''

[13] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES ''TAKSIM MEETINGS''

[14] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES ''TAKSIM MEETING'' - DEMIREL: ''THERE IS FUNDAMENTALISM IN TURKEY, YET IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR THIS TO COME TO A POINT THAT CAN THREATEN TURKEY''

[15] CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF, KIVRIKOGLU WATCHES F-16s IN BALIKESIR

[16] EXPORTS FROM GAP REGION TO AFRICAN COUNTRIES INCREASE BY 272 PERCENT

[17] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES ''TAKSIM MEETINGS'' - DEMIREL: ''CYPRUS QUESTION IS A NATIONAL CASE FOR TURKEY''

[18] NATIONAL DAY OF GEORGIA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL CONGRATULATED SHEVARDNADZE, GEORGIAN PRESIDENT

[19] CHAIRMAN OF TRABZON EXPORTERS UNION, GURDOGAN: ''WE CAN GAIN BACK LOST MARKETS OF CIS COUNTRIES THROUGH FOREIGN TRADE CENTER''

[20] TURKEY INCREASES HER SUPPORT TO AGRICULTURE - OECD AGRICULTURE REPORT INDICATES ONLY TURKISH AND POLISH SUPPORT TO AGRICULTURE INCREASE BETWEEN 1996 AND 1998

[21] RED CRESCENT CAMP IN ALBANIA - CAMP IS PROTECTED BY 160-PERSONS TURKISH UNIT

[22] GIRNE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY TO GIVE HONORARY DOCTORATE TO DOGAN, OWNER OF DOGAN MEDIA GROUP, AND OZDEN, FORMER CHAIRMAN OF CONSTITUTION COURT

[23] U.S.-IRAQ OPPOSITION TALKS - MUZAFFER ARSLAN, REPRESENTATIVE OF TURCOMAN FRONT: ''EVERYBODY IS AWARE THAT NOTHING CAN BE DONE WITHOUT TURKEY''

[24] TWO DOCUMENTS ABOUT STRUGGLE AGAINST CROSS-BORDER CRIMES SIGNED IN BUCHAREST

[25] KIRCAALI REGIONAL GOVERNOR DECLARED AS ''PERSONA NON GRATA'' - RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS MOVEMENT CALLED ON PLAMEN IVANOV, REGIONAL GOVERNOR, TO BE DISMISSED

[26] ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS: BIG BURDEN ON TURKEY

[27] HEAD OF GENDARME PERSONNEL, NURETTIN CAKIR: ''GROWING CRIME RATE, FORCES ALL COUNTRIES TO ACT TOGETHER IN EVERY POSSIBLE FIELD OF SECURITY''

[28] NATO'S AIR OPERATION AGAINST YUGOSLAVIA - TURKISH F-16 WAR PLANES ACCUMULATE A TOTAL OF 1,614 FLIGHT HOURS

[29] INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONFERENCE TO BEGIN IN ANKARA TOMORROW

[30] ALBANIAN FM MILO ADDRESSES TO A.A: ''ALL ALBANIANS HAVE TO COME TOGETHER REGARDING KOSOVO PROBLEM''

[31] A PRIVATE AMBULANCE AIRPLANE KEPT READY TO BRING ARAN AND HIS DAUGHTER BACK TO TURKEY

[32] COE TO WATCH CHIEF TERRORIST TRIAL IN ROTATION

[33] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT: ''TRNC PRODUCER HAS TO SELL ITS PRODUCT IN TURKISH MARKET''

[34] ESCORT STARTS PC EXPORT TO EUROPE

[35] TUSIAD DELEGATION IN GERMANY - YUCAOGLU, TUSIAD CHAIRMAN: ''ECONOMIC REFORMS PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN TURKEY'' - HENKEL, BDI CHAIRMAN: ''TURKEY IS ON RIGHT TRACK REGARDING MEMBERSHIP TO EU''

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL)

F-16S MAKE US PROUD
The F-16 aircrafts which are produced in Turkey, made us proud. The F-16s which are deployed in a base in Balikesir province of the Marmara Region, realized a war maneouvre. The F-16s hit the targets with the guided missiles at night.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

PERINCEK, LEADER OF LABOUR PARTY, RESIGNS FROM LEADERSHIP
Dogu Perincek, the leader of the Labour Party (IP), resigned from his leadership to prevent the opening of a lawsuit for the closure of IP. The Chief Prosecutor's office earlier requested the expulsion of Perincek from the party.

SABAH (LIBERAL)

TURKISH F-16 RECEIVES FUEL SUPPLY FROM U.S. TANKER ON AIR
The Turkish Hawk fleet broke a record by flying for 763 hours and 30 minutes between Marh 24 and May 5. The U.S. tanker planes supplied fuel to the Turkish fleet on the air.

MOURNING AT FOREIGN MINISTRY
Bozkurt Aran, the Turkish Ambassador in Islamabad lost his wife and daughter at a traffic accident thay had on Islamabad-Lahor highway in Pakistan's Penjap state. The Ambassador's Toyola Land Cruiser was going with 120 km/hr when the driver lost control of the car because of a broken axle. Senay Aran, Ambassador' wife died at the scene while his older daughter Irem Aran (21) lost her life at the hospital she was taken. His younger daughter, Zeynep Aran's condition has been reported as serious. Ambassador Aran and the driver survived the accident without fatal injury.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

MINISTRY BARGAINING
Democratic Left Party (DSP), Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), and the Motherland Party (ANAP), who sat on coalition talks, carried out a firm bargaining on national education, public works, transportation and energy ministries. It was reported that MHP got Customs General Directorate. Sharing in economy administration was: MHP got finance, DSP the treasury, and ANAP got Foreign Trade. There were long arguments in protocol commission regarding eight years compulsory education and headscarf issue. MHP gave the message that if National Education Ministry is not given to them, it may be left to ANAP. It was reported that Ecevit, leader of DSP, would be resolved not to give National Education Ministry.

RADIKAL (LEFT)

DEMIREL IN TAKSIM SQUARE
President Suleyman Demirel who addressed ''Taksim Meetings'', said the voters, who strengthened extreme right, warned central right. Demirel said Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and Virtue Party (FP) increased their votes two points, adding that ''there are two alternatives, either central right will integrate, or extreme rightest parties will approach to central right.''

YENİ YÜZYIL (LIBERAL)

NSC WITHOUT WASTING TIME
Government will be in Cankaya palace on Friday. List of Council of Ministers of the tripartite coalition government, which will be formed under leadership of Bulent Ecevit, DSP leader, will be submitted to the confirmation of Demirel on Friday. National Security Council (NSC) will take place in the same day. The new government will be informed about fundamentalism and terrorism issue if Demirel confirms without wasting time.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

COURT DELEGATION ON IMRALI ISLAND
The judges and prosecutors of the State Security Court (DGM) who will try Abdullah Ocalan, the terrorist chief, arrived on the Imrali Island. The court delegation includes Turgut Okyay, the head of the DGM No 2, Huseyin Eken, civilian member, Abdulkadir Davarcioglu, military judge, Mehmeh Maras, the civilian alternate member, and Talat Salk, the Acting Chief Prosecutor.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

THOUGHT SHOULD NOT BE CRIME
Nail Gureli, the Chairman of Turkish Journalists Association stated that democratization must be the principle issue on the new government's agenda. Pointing out to a social reconciliation, Gureli said, ''this is only possible if democratization is materialized. Our basic demands that we have been voicing for a long time must be tackled by the new government and the new Parliament,'' Gureli added and repeated that thought should not be a crime and every subject must be discussed freely.

[02] SAHINBAS, FM DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARY, TO REPRESENT TURKEY IN EU POLITICAL DIRECTORS MEETING

A Foreign Ministry statement said that the meeting will be held within the framework of the Stability Pact proposal which is about the enhancement of stability in the Balkans and the re-structuringof the region and will start in Germany on Wednesday.

Stating that the Stability Pact foresees taking medium and long-term measures against the factors which led to instability in the Balkans, the statement noted that Turkey will contribute to the formation and the application of the pact.

[03] OECD MINISTERS' COMMITTEE TO CONVENE IN PARIS ON WEDNESDAY

The foreign ministers and the ministers responsible for economy of 29 member countries will participate in the meeting which will last for two days.

Since the efforts to form the government are underway in Turkey, Turkey cannot participate in the meeting in the level of ministers.

The economic growth, unemployment, social compromise, and the negotiations with the World Trade Organization (WTO) will set up the first items of the agenda of the meeting.

The participants will also discuss the free trade, economic quotas, and the relations of the world countries with the WTO.

Russia, China, Brazil and India, which are not the members of the OECD but are important markets in the global economy, will participate in the OECD meeting in the level of ministers and high-ranking officials.

[04] GENERAL KIVRIKOGLU, CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF, AND FORCE COMMANDERS CARRY OUT INVESTIGATIONS IN MAIN JET BASE IN BALIKESIR

Kivrikoglu and the force commanders visited the exhibition which displayed the equipment which is used in search and rescue operations and the modern munitions of the F-4 and F-16 aircrafts.

Kivrikoglu and force commanders got information from the officials in the exhibition about the features of the Amraam, Harm, Maverick, and MK-82 missiles, and guided missiles.

Kivrikoglu and force commanders later watched the loading of the real munitions on the aircrafts.

The officials in the base said that the personnel of the base can load the mentioned munitions on the aircrafts in less than 45 minutes, which is the NATO standard.

Kivrikoglu and the force commanders later watched a performed attack and how the personnel in the base will protect the base against such attack.

Later, Kivrikoglu and the commanders visited Alaaddin Yuksel, Balikesir Governor, in his office.

Kivrikoglu and the commanders will continue their investigations today.

The Ninth Main Jet Base is one of the most important air bases of Turkey. The Turkish Air Forces fleet which are deployed in Ghedi base of Italy due to the NATO operation, is under the authority of the Ninth Main Jet Base.

Turkey plans to deploy some of the NATO aircrafts which will arrive in Turkey in the end of May, at this base.

The officials at the base said that the preparations for the deployment of NATO aircrafts in this base are underway.

[05] ALIYEV, AZERBAIJANI PRESIDENT, IN SOUTHERN ANTALYA PROVINCE - ALIYEV: ''THE FRIENDLY RELATIONS BETWEEN AZERBAIJAN AND TURKEY IMPROVE DAY BY DAY''

Addressing a statement at the Antalya Airport, Aliyev noted that he came to Turkey upon the invitation of President Suleyman Demiral, and that he and Demirel had nice talks when he was in Ankara.

Noting that Demirel and he exchanged views to improve the Turkish- Azerbaijani friendship, Aliyev emphasized that this friendship is very important.

Stressing that the friendly relations between Turkey and Azerbaijan improve day by day after Azerbaijan declared her independence, Aliyev stated that this friendship is eternal and that he welcomes the efforts of President Demirel in improving this friendly relation.

Stating that he held contacts with Yildirim Akbulut, the Parliament Speaker; Premier Bulent Ecevit; General Huseyin Kivrikoglu, the Chief of General Staff; and Mesut Yilmaz, the leader of the Motherland Party (ANAP) when he was in Ankara, Aliyev stressed that he is very pleased to be in Turkey after he had a by-pass operation in the U.S. because Turkey is his real country.

Aliyev emphasized that he will rest for a few days in Antalya and then will return to Azerbaijan.

[06] ''GOLDEN PERSONS OF THE YEAR'' AWARD CEREMONY - PRESIDENT DEMIREL, PREMIER ECEVIT, BAYAR, INTERIOR MINISTER AND GULER, A.A DIRECTOR GENERAL, GIVEN AWARD IN CEREMONY

Many famous persons, the mayors, and the deputies participated in the ceremony which was held by the Union of Anatolian Press.

President Suleyman Demirel and Premier Bulent Ecevit were given awards in ''The Statesmen of the Year'' category.

Devlet Bahceli, the leader of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), was awarded in the ''The Politician of the Year'' category while Cahit Bayar, the Interior Minister, was given ''Jury Special Award''.

Neither Demirel nor Ecevit, Bahceli and Bayar could participate in the ceremony.

Mehmet Guler, the Director General of the Anatolian Agency, and Necati Bilican, the Chief of the Police Organization were given the award of ''The Bureaucrat of the Year.''

Erdogan Sahinoglu, Ankara Governor; Kemal Nehrozoglu, Izmir Governor; Muammer Guler, Gaziantep Governor; and Abdulkadir Sari were given an award in ''The Governors of the Year'' category.

The winners of the other categories are as follows:

The Mayors of the Year:

Celal Dogan, Gaziantep Mayor

The Industrialists of the Year:

Mustafa Koc

Abdulkadir Konukoglu

Mehmet Okan

Ali Kantur

Sinan Aygun,

Veli Saritoprak,

Serafettin Mendi,

Mehmet Begendik,

Suleyman Orakcioglu,

Adnan Keskin,

Ahmet Cicek

Orhan Akan

The Doctor of the Year:

The Journalist of the Year:

Fatih Altayli

Ali Kirca

Zeynep Gogus,

Isin Gurel,

Hulki Cevizoglu

Aydin Ozdalga

[07] GERMAN JOURNALISTS IN SOUTHERN ANTALYA PROVINCE

German delegation formed by 18 representatives of the German television and radio channels and newspapers met with the representatives of the Turkish tourism sector and Turkish journalists.

The participants discussed the problems faced in the Turkish tourism sector and the anti-propagandas carried out by the terrorist organization PKK in Germany during the meeting.

Ahmet Kulahci, the Chairman of the European-Turkish Journalists' Association, said that they discussed the image problem of Turkey in Europe.

Noting that introducing Turkey is the task of everybody in Turkey and that there are some misunderstandings and lack of information about Turkey in Europe, Kulahci stated that they should eliminate these misunderstandings and lack of information and that they want the German journalists to come and see Turkey.

Erdogan Kahya, the Chairman of Antalya Journalists Association, said that the press is free to issue any kind of news and that the German press issues the information they get from the terrorist organization PKK; adding that they felt sorry about the statements of the German governmental officials saying that Turkey is not a safe country.

German journalists complained that they cannot get necessary information from the Turkish officials in Germany.

German journalists said that Turkish non-governmental organizations should set up representations in Germany to give information to the German press and that it is necessary to change the image of Turkey in Europe, adding that to this end Turkey should attach importance to information and promotion.

A German journalist said that he will write that there are not any terrorist attacks in Turkey after he returns to Germany.

The German journalists concluded as saying that they will be more sensitive from now on when issuing any news about the foreign countries.

[08] TUSIAD DELEGATION TO HOLD CONTACTS IN GERMANY AS GUEST OF GERMAN INDUSTRIALISTS CONFEDERATION PRIOR TO EU SUMMIT

The TUSIAD delegation, which is headed by Bulent Eczacibasi and Erkut Yuceoglu, will hold contacts with Werner Muller, the German State Minister Responsible for the Relations with the EU and the Technology; Wolfgang Gretschmann, Head of Economy and Finance Department of Prime Ministry; Klaus Ischinger, German Foreign Ministry Undersecretary; and the members of the Turkish-German Parliamentarians Group on Wednesday.

TUSIAD delegation will bring the issues like the importance of the full membership process of Turkey to the EU for the economic and security interests of both parts and the including Turkey in the infrastructural investments of the EU.

TUSIAD delegation will request the support of the German Industrialists Association for the lifting off the Greek veto which closes the path to Turkish-EU relations.

The visit of the TUSIAD delegation prior to the Koln summit attaches importance.

The EU will determine the new security strategy of the union in the Koln summit which will be held on June 3 and 4.

[09] TURKISH-RUSSIAN ECONOMIC RELATIONS - KILIC, HEAD OF TURKISH-RUSSIAN BUSINESS COUNCIL: - ''IT WILL BE USEFUL TO ACT WITH THIRD COUNTRIES TO REALIZE MORE INITIATIVES WITH RUSSIA''

The effects of the latest political developments in Russia on the economic relations between the two countries were evaluated in a press conference.

Kilic noted that the two countries should carry out some infrastructural efforts in political and economic fields to increase the commercial relations between the two countries.

Stressing that the Russians are willing to make investments in Turkey, Kilic stated that it will be useful to take action with third countries to realize more initiatives with Russia and that the gas power plant which is planned to set up in Denizli province by the Russian, American, and Turkish partnership is a good example for this.

Kilic said, ''the cooperation in giant projects will be less in the following period. To this end, the tourism and luggage trade should be more regular not to be negatively affected in this period.''

Kilic emphasized that the problems in tourism can be solved by closely following the developments in Russia and by carrying out promotion campaigns.

Muhametcen Zigansin, Russian Counsellor in Istanbul, said that 700 Turkish companies are employed in Russia and that most of these companies are small and medium scale enterpreneurs.

Zigansin noted that they want the Turkish businessmen not only to realize trade with Russia but also to make investments in Russia.

[10] PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN ''TAKSIM MEETINGS''

Addressing a speech in ''Taksim Meetings'' in which he participates for the 11th time, Demirel noted that realizing a multi-party democracy in Turkey a long time after she was established, is so natural because Turkish nation used to do what the sultan had declared for many centuries.

Emphasizing that the political parties are indispensable parts of the democracy, Demirel pointed out that the different opinions should not show hostility to each other and the people should not set at loggerheads because of politics.

Stressing that Turkey faced many crisis, had intervals in politics, but that democracy was damaged by all these, Demirel stated that if there are some problems in 1999, these problems have not occured in only one day.

Stating that Turkey welcomes the 21st century after realizing free and just elections, Demirel stressed that the political parties should stop discussions at the political arenas and should look for conciliation to how to serve the country.

Recalling that the votes of central right and central left wing decreased when compared with the 1991 elections, Demirel noted that 14 million voters changed their opinions and voted differently in this elections.

Drawing the attention that the votes of the central right was behind that of the more rightest parties, Demirel stated that central left will also integrate within itself and that these developments will occur naturally in the natural flow of politics.

Demirel stressed that the central right wing can either re-structure by integrating or the more rightest parties can approach to the center.

Emphasizing that waiting for all these developments to occur by themselves will make Turkey lose time, Demirel said that however, Turkey is a world state which is rapidly approaching a bright future with her labour force, giant investment potential, dinamic entrepreneurs who are integrated with global economy and her defense power.

[11] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES IN ''TAKSIM MEETINGS''

Addressing a speech in ''Taksim Meetings'', Demirel noted that Turkey faces some daily, short-term, and long-term problems following the April 18 elections.

Noting that the change of votes of 14 million people is a deterioration of the trust to politicians, political parties, and the political institutions, Demirel emphasized that the rule saying that when the public is free, the majority will not be mistaken.

Demirel said, ''both the politician, the political institutions, and the citizens undertake responsibilities in providing the prestige of the politics, politicians, and the political institutions. Some sorrowful incidents happen. And there are some politicians who cause these incidents. We take a single event, we generalize it, and carry it to the institutions.''

''We cannot reach a point by speaking badly about the institutions and destroying them. It is very wrong to have prejudice about all the institutions and organizations by taking into consideration the mistake of only one person,'' Demirel added.

Stressing that everybody should understand the expectations of the Turkish citizens, Demirel stated that Turkey should not welcome the new century with pains and problems.

Stating that the people will support the administrators in solving the problems in case the government gives an impression that it can deal with the problems of the country, Demirel stressed that this will create trust in the country.

Pointing out that as soon as the government is formed, the trust to the country will increase, Demirel emphasized that when the parliament starts to pass new laws which will meet the basic and emergent expectations of the people and the country, it will be uesful in improving the prestige of the politicial institutions.

Emphasizing that one of the daily problems of Turkey is ''terrorism'', Demirel pointed out that Turkey should eradicate the terrorism and should put an end to the foreign links of the terrorism.

Demirel said, ''the foreign struggle which we started from Syria is very important. We have to continue to persuade the foreign world that the terrorism is a very wild act and that we should consider the terrorism itself, not the target or the reason of the terrorism.''

''That is, is this a movement of liberation? It is not possible to realize a movement of liberation with terrorism. On the other hand, this is not a movement of liberation, this is a direct crime,'' Demirel added.

Demirel said that one of Turkey's agenda items is the trial of Ocalan, terrorist chief. ''This trial should be realized in such a way that nobody can criticize. Nobody can say anything against the verdict,'' he added.

Demirel noted that Turkey cannot break off from Europe but that Europe is not in a position to do what it wants.

Demirel said, ''the European courts thinks that the formation of the State Security Courts (DGM) is not correct. But, if we comply with the direction of the European courts, we will not lose anything. This requires an amendment in the Constitution. The necessary amendment should be made in the first convening of the parliament and this court should be arranged in a way that nobody can say anything.''

''This court should work in a way that it receives no criticism. Then, nobody can say anything about the verdict of this court and the action of the parliament on the direction of this verdict,'' Demirel added.

[12] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES IN ''TAKSIM MEETINGS'' - DEMIREL: ''TURKEY IS A WORLD STATE AND WILL REMAIN SO''

Addressing the ''Taksim Meetings'', President Demirel said there are complaints like economic problems, workers who are dismissed from their jobs, inflation and high interests in Turkey's daily problems.

Demirel said incidents in Kosovo and propogandas abroad against Turkey caused important problems in tourism sector this year, adding that formation of budget and problems in public incomes were the other daily problems of Turkey.

Mentioning about Kosovo problem, Demirel said Turkey acted together with NATO to this end, adding that Turkey was an important country within NATO.

Recalling that Turkey also has problems like Cyprus, European Union, and lack of authority in Northern Iraq, Demirel said he wanted to stress once again that Turkey should not cut links with the EU. Demirel said, ''we can not reach somewhere by remaining in emotional state with Europe. We should remain in mental state and we should be calm as Turkey's interests require this. Even our reactions should be in the direction that should serve Turkey's high interests.''

Responding to a question of Nail Gureli, Turkish Journalists' Association, which said ''would you like to assume a concrete attitude towards the new government and parliament on the issue of expansion of democratization and guaranteeing freedoms?'', Demirel said freedom of thought was among the principle rights of democracy.

Demirel said, ''freedom to disclose thoughts is evaluated according to the requirements of democratic community order and with principle of moderation. All the countries have this principle.''

President Demirel said the state and people who want to live in tranquility in this country were meticulous on preservation of internal peace.

Demirel recalled that 30,000 people were killed in anarchy incidents in Turkey, adding that ''if terrorism ends- it is already under control- most of these complaints will disappear.''

[13] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES ''TAKSIM MEETINGS''

Demirel responded the questions of the journalists in ''Taksim Meetings.''

Responding a question which said ''Turkey is being trusted for a land operation in Kosovo, and our economy gives important signals. Does not this situation mean 'relieving Turkey's economy with the blood of our soldiers', '' Demirel noted that Turkey is a member of the NATO and that every country which makes commitments to this alliance should undertake its commitments.

Noting that if a country says that she is a partner of NATO in profit but not in loss, NATO will not make that country stay within its auspices, Demirel pointed out that Turkey is in the decision-making mechanism of NATO.

Stressing that the Kosovo dispute is the continuation of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Demirel asked who can willingly turn a blind eye to this.

Demirel said, ''Turkey is different from the other countries. We say that we are included in all the actions of NATO against Kosovo. NATO deploys a thousand aircrafts while Turkey deploys 17 aircrafts. How can we be in the first place? When our aircrafts are charged with protection mission, they protect. When they are charged with bombing mission, they bomb.''

''We cannot say that protect, but do not bomb. Let us go and sacrifice our soldiers for a small amount of money. No! In my opinion, this is incredible. Neither the blood of the Turkish soldiers are that cheap nor we can accept such thing. What is the issue? A human butcher occured. Turkey is not behind anybody when performing a humanitarian mission,'' Demirel added.

Stressing that Turkey and NATO are not involved in this issue to gain territories, Demirel stated that there is a war which has not been declared and that the thing carried out there is a correct thing and that the thing Turkey does is the job of a big and honorable state.

Responding a question about the presidential system, Demirel said that it is difficult to realize this system in Turkey, where the parliament is not enough and the principle of the seperation of powers does not operate well.

Emphasizing that the foreign countries think that they elect a king for 4 years, and that the elected person use his/her authority as he/she interprets them, Demirel said, ''the base in Turkey dispersed. We had a fight in the central wings, now we are looking for a center. The central left and central right wings have fights within themselves. Turkey should discuss the presidential system, semi-presidential system, and all of the systems again.''

''When I say all these, many people say that I want to be the president. I come to this position from the start. So, nobody can say that I want to become a king or a sultan and stay where I am staying at the moment because this is not possible. Turkey made this system impossible. Nobody can stay at the top of Turkey and say I'm staying here,'' Demirel added.

[14] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES ''TAKSIM MEETING'' - DEMIREL: ''THERE IS FUNDAMENTALISM IN TURKEY, YET IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR THIS TO COME TO A POINT THAT CAN THREATEN TURKEY''

Demirel responded to a question related with ''fundamentalism'' in ''Taksim Meeting'' and said ''there is fundamentalism in Turkey, yet, it is impossible for this to come to a point that can threaten Turkey.''

Noting that Turkey was the only secular and democratic country in the region, Demirel said, ''several currents are directed to Turkey from some countries around us, yet the state is strong enough to get rid of every kind of influence.''

Responding to a question on the issue of increasing democratic participation, Demirel said it was not adequate for the citizens to go to polls once in four years. Demirel said, ''this may cause many inconsistencies. In my opinion, Turkish policy is broken off from the public. Changes should take place in Political Parties Law, and the base should be more solid.''

Demirel pointed out that state reform was required in Turkey, adding that ''a firm political parties reform and election reform are required within this. Political parties and democracy will become rooted. Also a referendum should take place once every year. We should bring all the big problems of Turkey to the public without hesitation.''

[15] CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF, KIVRIKOGLU WATCHES F-16s IN BALIKESIR

Kivrikoglu said the Turkish F-16's both attack and protect in the Kosovo operation. He also announced that it has been decided to assign Balikesir and Bandirma bases for the deployment of the NATO planes and added that a third base might be formed in Corlu or Incirlik. The planes in question can be deployed in June.

Kivrikoglu and other commanders watched the F-16's shooting with real ammunition at night at Balikesir's 9th Major Jet Base Commandership after carrying out inspections at the base.

The F-16's which are called ''bats'' because of their special training to shoot at night, joined the operation. The RF-4 and F-4 planes which took off from Eskisehir also assisted the F-16's in reconnaissance. The F-16's which are equipped with a system which enables the pilot to fly and see at night, were able to hit the targets with guided missiles after the targets were determined with RF-4's and F-4's.

Following the inspections in Balikesir, Kivrikoglu stressed that the Turkish Air Forces have developed greatly in the recent years. Pointing out to the shootings of F-16's which hit the targets and destroyed them with hundred percent accuracy at night, Kivrikoglu said the tanker planes also strengthened the power of the Air Forces.

A total of 18 planes were assigned for NATO for Kosovo Operation. Ten of these planes have been used and the others could be used if NATO demands it.

Responding to a question, Kivrikoglu stated that NATO cannot leave the operation incomplete and added that it would lose its respectibility if it does that.

Turkey will carry out the operation via Bulgaria towards Kosovo since Greece doesn't allow it, he stated. Because of ''Orthodox brothership'' Greece sympathizes with Bulgaria and this is against the NATO solidarity, he concluded.

[16] EXPORTS FROM GAP REGION TO AFRICAN COUNTRIES INCREASE BY 272 PERCENT

The officials from the Southeastern Anatolia Exporters' Union said that a total of 4.3 million U.S. dollars exportation, including 474,000 U.S. dollars cereals, 36,000 U.S. dollars nuts, and 3.8 million U.S. dollars textile exports, were realized in the first four months of 1999.

Turkey realized the biggest exports to Egypt and Algeria which worth of 1.3 million U.S. dollars.

Turkey exported mostly cotton and chickpea to the African countries.

Meanwhile, the exports to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eastern Europe countries which were the most important export centers of the region until the Russia and Yugoslavia crisis, decreased in this mentioned period.

Turkey's exports to CIS countries decreased by 66.4 percent while the Turkish exports to Eastern European countries decreased by 10 percent in the mentioned period.

Russia and Romania are the countries where Turkey realized the most exports in the CIS and Eastern Europe.

Biscuits, chocolate, sweets, plastic bags, synthetic thread, cotton thread, carpet, and pistachio nuts are the main products which are exported from the region.

[17] PRESIDENT DEMIREL ADDRESSES ''TAKSIM MEETINGS'' - DEMIREL: ''CYPRUS QUESTION IS A NATIONAL CASE FOR TURKEY''

Responding to the questions during ''Taksim Meetings'', Demirel said an extreme centralist state structure would not be able to cope with the problems of 21st century, and added that an effective and operational state is required, which has the support of people.

Pointing out that the state should provide facilities to the entrepreneurs on the issue of development, Demirel said, ''the state should provide tranquility and peace and leave the development to the citizens.''

Responding to a question on Cyprus issue, Demirel said no political solution could be found to this problem so far, adding that ''Cyprus is a national case for Turkey, and Turkey is not faulty because a political solution in Cyprus could not be found.''

Briefing about the past of Cyprus question, Demirel said, ''they wanted to leave the Island to Greece,'' adding that Turkey would not accept this and implement a (give and relieve) policy.

Demirel said none of the solution proposals put forward was in benefit of Turkey, ''first of all, the world should recognize the Turks in Cyprus as a state, as separate people, and recognize their sovereignty rights.''

Responding to a question about Turkey's EU membership, Demirel said ''First, an operational democracy is required. I don't want democracy for Europe, I want it for my own people. Then, an operational economy. Let us fulfil these conditions for us, not for Europe.''

Demirel said 14 countries, apart from Greece, accepted Turkey's candidacy, and Greece carried out its intransigent attitude. He said, ''a Europe without Turkey can not be thought in new political geography of the world. Yet, we will not beg to anybody for this.''

Pointing out that Europe's becoming a ''Christian Club'' would mean violating its own values, Demirel said, ''it is wrong to take Europe against us as an enemy.''

[18] NATIONAL DAY OF GEORGIA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL CONGRATULATED SHEVARDNADZE, GEORGIAN PRESIDENT

A statement from the Presidential Press Center said that Demirel sent a congratulatory message to Shevardnadze saying that Georgia gained her deserved position in the international community despite all adverse conditions she faces and despite a short time following the declaration of her independence.

Demirel noted that the experienced will of Shevardnadze contributed to the formation of a state mechanism based on democracy and the superiority of law.

Stressing that Turkey has attached importance to improve the friendly relations and the cooperation with Georgia since she declared her independence, Demirel stated that he believes that the relations between the two countries which constitute an example for the other countries, will further improve.

Emphasizing that Turkey will support Georgia in enhancing peace, security, and welfare in her territory, Demirel said that he wished that the Georgian nation will live in security and welfare.

[19] CHAIRMAN OF TRABZON EXPORTERS UNION, GURDOGAN: ''WE CAN GAIN BACK LOST MARKETS OF CIS COUNTRIES THROUGH FOREIGN TRADE CENTER''

Ahmet Hamdi Gurdogan, the Chairman of Trabzon Exporters Union pointed out that Turkey's trade with the CIS countries is not at a satisfactory level. ''A drop in the trade has been observed as a result of the economic crisis. We can gain back the lost markets through the Foreign Trade Center that would be founded in Trabzon,'' Gurdogan said, and added that the reports have already been passed on to the related departments of the government.

''We prepared projects to set up a Foreign Trade Center in Trabzon like those in Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. The center could be built on the area next to Trabzon Harbour on which FISKOBIRLIK, Et-Balik Kurumu (Meat-Fish Institution), and Petrol Office is currently situated. We will start contacts with the new government for the allocation of this area. The necessary financement for the Foreign Trade Center is planned to be obtained from the World Bank credits as well as through the participation of local and foreign investors,'' Gurdogan explained.

If the government allocates this area for the Foreign Trade Center, its construction can start immediately, Gurdogan said and added that the center will have storage rooms, showrooms, and social areas as well as offices.

[20] TURKEY INCREASES HER SUPPORT TO AGRICULTURE - OECD AGRICULTURE REPORT INDICATES ONLY TURKISH AND POLISH SUPPORT TO AGRICULTURE INCREASE BETWEEN 1996 AND 1998

The level of overall supports of Turkey increased to 8.58 percent while that of Poland increased to 3.15 percent in the mentioned period.

The OECD report titled ''Agriculture Policies of the OECD Countries'' indicated that the support of the member countries to the agriculture sector was realized as 348.8 million U.S. dollar in the mentioned period.

The figures indicated that the overall agriculture support of Turkey which set up 8,93 percent of the Gross National Domestic Product (GNDP) increased to 10.67 percent which is worth of 22.8 million U.S. dollars.

Noting that Turkey provided 72 percent of the support to the producers by the price of the products and 26 percent of the support by agricultural revenues, the report emphasized that the prices of the cereals, sugar, tobacco increased above the world level due to the high rate of inflation.

The rate and amount of the support to agricultural sector in OECD countries in U.S. dollars are as follows:

COUNTRIES 1986-88 1991-93 1996-98 1997(x) 1998(x)

------------------ ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
AVUSTRALIA
Million U.S. Dollar 1,365 1,795 1,871 1,963 1,726

Share in GNDP 0.68 0.62 0.49 0.50 0.49

------------------
CANADA

Million U.S. Dollar 7,113 7,563 4,540 4,193 4,291

Share in GNDP 1.69 1.30 0.75 0.68 0.72

------------------
CHECH REPUBLIC
Million U.S. Dollar 5,431 1,635 703 519 831

Share in GNDP - 5.53 1.28 1.00 1.51

------------------
EUROPEAN UNION
Million U.S. Dollar 112,671 152,048 129,262 123,030 142,201

Share in GNDP 2.29 1.50 1.14 1.18 1.36

------------------
HUNGARY
Million U.S. Dollar 3,458 998 698 525 768

Share in GNDP - 2.74 1.52 1.16 1.61

------------------
ICELAND
Million U.S. Dollar 260 270 164 158 180

Share in GNDP 5.11 4.07 2.14 2.12 2.20

------------------
JAPAN

Million U.S. Dollar 58,055 66,882 66,144 64,072 56,842

Share in GNDP 2.40 1.76 1.57 1.53 1.50

------------------
KOREA

Million U.S. Dollar 14,315 24,561 24,218 26,114 15,997

Share in GNDP 10.06 7.90 5.86 5.90 5.37

------------------
MEXICO

Million U.S. Dollar 3,237 12,611 5,278 6,266 5,997

Share in GNDP 2.07 3.47 1.36 1.56 1.43

------------------
NEW ZEALAND
Million U.S. Dollar 581 142 150 174 98

Share in GNDP 1.85 0.34 0.24 0.27 0.19

------------------
NORWAY

Million U.S. Dollar 3,120 3,506 2,881 2,807 2,830

Share in GNDP 3.58 2.92 1.89 1.83 1.95

------------------
POLAND

Million U.S. Dollar 6,555 1,957 4,409 3,873 4,225

Share in GNDP - 2.32 3.15 2.85 2.80

------------------
SWITZERLAND
Million U.S. Dollar 5,895 6,802 6,391 5,912 6,246

Share in GNDP 3.57 2.86 2.36 2.32 2.38

------------------
TURKEY

Million U.S. Dollar 3,962 10,204 17,020 17,049 22,830

Share in GNDP 4.83 6.37 8.58 8.93 10.67

------------------
THE U.S.
Million U.S. Dollar 88,029 89,855 85,073 79,528 97,311

Share in GNDP 1.88 1.44 1.05 0.98 1.15

------------------
OECD

Million U.S. Dollar 325,996 393,520 348,802 336,185 362,373

Share in GNDP - 1.71 1.32 1.32 1.43

(x) Transitory datas</PRE>

[21] RED CRESCENT CAMP IN ALBANIA - CAMP IS PROTECTED BY 160-PERSONS TURKISH UNIT

''Turkish Red Crescent Elbasan Kosovar Camp'', which has 5,000 people capacity and opened on April 11 by President Suleyman Demirel, accept refugees since April 20.

Number of refugees changes from time to time in the camp which Red Crescent gives services with 25 personnel. Currently, the number of refugees is 3400.

Two doctors and two nurses give service for 24 hours in the health center which Red Crescent established in the camp.

Red Crescent officials, who carry out efforts for education facilities in the camp, pointed out that education facilities will be given to 700 children with 24 teachers in schools which will be opened soon.

Javier Solana, NATO Secretary General; Tony Blair, British Prime Minister; Sali Berisha, former Albanian President; and a delegation from the U.S. Congress, visited the camp so far.

Three other camps, established by Germany, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, give service in Elbasan. Red Crescent has another camp in Macedonia which has 5, 000 people capacity.

Meanwhile, the refugees sheltered in Red Crescent's camp in Elbasan, cry while telling about the oppression in their countries.

Rezerta, around 70 years-old, says Serbian police who came to their village in western side of Kosovo, gathered together the men and took them by forcing to wear Serbian military uniforms.

Another refugee named Muzaffer, said his two brothers were killed by Serbian soldiers. Misye, another refugee, told about how their house was set into fire and women raped by Serbs.

[22] GIRNE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY TO GIVE HONORARY DOCTORATE TO DOGAN, OWNER OF DOGAN MEDIA GROUP, AND OZDEN, FORMER CHAIRMAN OF CONSTITUTION COURT

Dogan and Ozden will be given honorary doctorates in the graduate ceremony which will be held on May 28, 1999.

Rauf Denktas, the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the governmental and state officials and some officials from the Institution of Higher Education (YOK) will participate in the ceremony.

If Ahmet Ozal, Malatya independent deputy and the son of Turgut Ozal, the eight President of Turkey who died in 1993, participates in the ceremony, the doctorate which was planned to be given to Turgut Ozal by the U.S. Southeastern University, which is in cooperation with GAU, is expected be given to Ahmet Ozal.

[23] U.S.-IRAQ OPPOSITION TALKS - MUZAFFER ARSLAN, REPRESENTATIVE OF TURCOMAN FRONT: ''EVERYBODY IS AWARE THAT NOTHING CAN BE DONE WITHOUT TURKEY''

Speaking to A.A. correspondent, Arslan said meetings in Washington D.C. were beneficial to register Turcoman existence in Iraq, and that Turcomans have role in future of this country.

Arslan said, ''Turcomans, for the first time, attended such a high level meeting. Speeches of the U.S. State Department officials, continiously stressing existence of Turcomans, is a positive signal to determine our role in future of Iraq.''

Arslan said, ''also, Turkey's considerable influence was felt in the meetings. The U.S officials are in an effort not to offend Turkey, and to be in parallel with Turkey. Turkey is a country which has influence in the region and everybody who attended the meeting was aware of the fact that steps can not be taken without Turkey regarding the future of Iraq. These are all positive aspects.''

[24] TWO DOCUMENTS ABOUT STRUGGLE AGAINST CROSS-BORDER CRIMES SIGNED IN BUCHAREST

A Foreign Ministry statement said that two documents about improving the cooperation of the Balkan countries in the struggle against the cross- border crimes, were signed within the framework of Southeastern Europe Cooperation Initiative (SECI).

One of the documents was titled ''Agreement on the Cooperation for the Prevention and Fighting Against the Cross-Border Crimes'' and the other was titled ''By-Law of Formation and Operation of SECI Regional Center for the Struggle Against Cross-Border Crimes.''

The statement noted that the agreement was negotiated for over a year and Turkey participated in this process; adding that Ramazan Uludag, the Prime Ministry Customs Undersecretary, signed the agreement on behalf of Turkey.

The agreement foresees the exchange of information among the parties which signed the agreement, in determining the cross-border crimes and in preventing them by the participation of the Directorate General of the Interpol.

Stressing that the agreement aims at preventing the drug trafficking, the statement pointed out that the agreement also aims at putting an end to the operation of acid-anhydride path which goes from Western Europe to Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, and at preventing the production and the transfer of drugs from these countries back to Western Europe.

Pointing out that as soon as the by-law which was also signed on Tuesday is put into force, a SECI Centre will be formed in Bucharest, the statement stressed that each member country will employ one or two officials to work in this centre.

[25] KIRCAALI REGIONAL GOVERNOR DECLARED AS ''PERSONA NON GRATA'' - RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS MOVEMENT CALLED ON PLAMEN IVANOV, REGIONAL GOVERNOR, TO BE DISMISSED

Regional representatives of Rights and Freedoms Movement (HOH) which is mostly composed of Turks, and Mayors of the region, talked to Bulgarian Prime Minister Ivan Kostov, and wanted the Governor who launches intentional initiatives that may cause ethnical tension, to be dismissed.

Rasim Musa Kircaali, Mayor of Kircaali, said regional governor used bureucratic pressure methods to Turkish origin mayors and even threatened some of them.

Rasim Musa pointed out that such initiatives of Plamen Ivanov might cause ethnical tension in the region, and wanted the governor to be dismissed soon.

Ivan Kostov, Prime Minister, decided to launch investigation against Plamen Ivanov upon the complaints coming from Turkish Mayors.

[26] ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS: BIG BURDEN ON TURKEY

The security measures were tightened after the increase in the number of foreigners who entered the country from Turkey's eastern border through illegal ways.

A total of 2,737 illegal immigrants were captured in the eastern provinces of Van, Agri, Erzurum, and Ardahan in 1998. These foreigners were later expelled from the country.

In the first four months of 1999, on the other hand, 472 people of foreign origin were captured. The number of illegal immigrants increase in summer months.

The illegal immigrants who are mostly Iraqi, Iranian, Afghan, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, or Georgian pay the brokers approximately two thousand U.S. dollars per person. The immigrants usually told that they were escaping from the political regime or the administration system in their country. A majority of them said that they tried to use Turkey as a bridge to go to other countries while some of them said they were planning to stay in Turkey.

Necmettin Kalkan, the Acting Van Governor stated that the border Van shares with Iran is 270 kilometers long and it is impossible to keep it under control. ''As you know, the land is quite rough and steep. It is impossible to check the border from one end to the other end. But we are increasing the number of heat sensitive thermal cameras on the border. We are also tighthening measures against the brokers who make money out of the immigrants. These brokers exist both in Turkey and Iran,'' he explained.

Yunus Fazil Demir, the Acting Agri Governor, on the other hand, complained that the punishments given to the captured immigrants were not deterrent and continued: ''The foreigners who enter our country through illegal ways are made to pay a ridiculous fine like 250 thousand TL. Those who are expelled try it again. The punishments must be made more deterrent.''

In the meantime, the illegal immigrants who enter the country without a passport or with a false passport become burdens to the provinces they are captured in. The security officials in these provinces stated that the captured immigrants are provided food and even offered a bath until the time of their expulsion from the country. ''After all the procedure are completed, we give them pocket money and provide their transportation before we expel them. We don't have a fund for this. The illegal immigrants are a big burden on us. This must definitely be stopped,'' he concluded.

[27] HEAD OF GENDARME PERSONNEL, NURETTIN CAKIR: ''GROWING CRIME RATE, FORCES ALL COUNTRIES TO ACT TOGETHER IN EVERY POSSIBLE FIELD OF SECURITY''

The ''Procurement of Personnel, their Training and Education Sub Commission Meeting'' of the European Gendarme Union (FIEP) started with the participation of representatives from France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Algeria, and Netherlands Gendarme Forces in Ankara. The Turkish Republic Gendarme is also a member of the FIEP.

Cakir pointed out that FIEP is becoming a European-Mediterranean structure. The increasing crime rate is threatening security in more than one country and it does not recognize borders, Cakir stressed and continued: ''New kinds of crimes are emerging as parallel to the developing technology. This forces countries to act together in every possible field of security.''

Cakir concluded by saying that information and experience transfer between security institutions on a wide range of subjects including training and morale motivation is necessary.

The FIEP meeting will end on May,28 Friday.

[28] NATO'S AIR OPERATION AGAINST YUGOSLAVIA - TURKISH F-16 WAR PLANES ACCUMULATE A TOTAL OF 1,614 FLIGHT HOURS

The General Staff Information Center issued a statement saying that the Turkish F-16 war planes which are deployed at the Ghedi Airbase in Italy, stayed in air for 24 hours on May 25.

Meanwhile, a total of 890,245 Kosovar people were displaced so far as a result of ethnic cleansing campaign in Kosovo. According to the latest figures, there are 16,590 refugees in Turkey; 50 thousand in Serbia; 64 thousand in Montenegro; 437,893 in Albania; 232,400 in Macedonia; 20 thousand in Bosnia-Herzegovina, and 69,362 in other countries.

A total of 16,590 Kosovar refugees including 6,164 women, 5,170 men and 5, 256 children have entered Turkey from Istanbul, the Tekirdag-Corlu border gate, and from the Edirne-Kapikule border gate since the beginning of NATO air operation.

A total of 7,185 Kosovar refugees have been provided shelters in the Gaziosmanpasa Refugee Camp in Kirklareli province.

Turkey has provided shelters for a total of 11,314 Kosovar refugees in camps in Macedonia and Albania. Both camps have capacity to host 20 thousand refugees.

[29] INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONFERENCE TO BEGIN IN ANKARA TOMORROW

The conference which will be collectively organized by the Energy and Natural Sources Ministry, the World Energy Council, the Turkish National Committee in the World Energy Council, the U.S Energy Department, the U.S. Development Agency, and the U.S. Energy Institution, will last for two days.

Issues such as technological developments concerning the fossil fuels, and strategical value of fossil fuels in Eurasia region will be taken up at the conference.

Meanwhile, two separate panel discussions will be held within the frameworkf of the conference.

[30] ALBANIAN FM MILO ADDRESSES TO A.A: ''ALL ALBANIANS HAVE TO COME TOGETHER REGARDING KOSOVO PROBLEM''

Pascal Milo told A.A correspondent who asked him ''what will Ibrahim Rugova's arrival in Tirana would bring,'' that ''Albanian people in Kosovo have to act together. Rugova can't do anything alone, in this respect his visit to Albania is not expected to bring many things.''

Regarding the meeting between Hasim Taci, the prime minister of the interim government in Kosovo and the political leaders in Tirana, Milo said it was a very useful meeting. Milo pointed out that these meetings showed that Hasim Taci has political experience.

''Can formation of the Albanian National Security Council be delayed?'' asked A.A correspondent to Milo who said this depends on the reaction of the Albanian sides, adding ''we wish the formation of the Council soon and we exert efforts to this end.''

When journalists asked him that he does not display a clear attitude in the international society regarding the recognition of the Kosovo interim government and his opinion about this issue, Milo said that ''there are international principles which are valid regarding the recognition of a government, but this time it is not possible to tell that all the conditions which are necessary for the recognition exist. I believe that the recognition of the Kosovo government will come true after the end of the clashes in Kosovo. Then, the Kosovo government will start to work in a legal way.''

Referring to ''the possibility of the transformation of the draft prepared by the G-8 group into a U.N. Security Council Resolution,'' the Albanian Foreign Minister said that these studies are still underway and the discussion of the draft by the Security Council is expected in the coming days.

''As being the Albanian Foreign Minister, I would ask for more from the G-8 statement, but we have to take into account the circumstances. Kosovo problem can't be solved in a short period of time. But the process works in favour of the Albanians,'' he added.

[31] A PRIVATE AMBULANCE AIRPLANE KEPT READY TO BRING ARAN AND HIS DAUGHTER BACK TO TURKEY

Addressing a weekly press conference, Sermet Atacanli, the Deputy Spokesman of the Foreign Ministry, gave information about the latest developments regarded with the traffic accident.

Atacanli said that the Pakistani officials determined that the cause of the accident was a broken axle.

Reminding that Senay Aran, wife of Bozkurt Aran, and his older daughter Irem Aran (21) lost their lives at the accident, Sermet Atacanli stressed that Aran and his younger daughter Zeynep Aran are still under medical treatment.

Emphasizing that the Foreign Ministry uses any oppurtunity for the treatment of the injured Ambassador and his daughter, Atacanli told reporters that an ambulance airplane is being kept ready to leave for Pakistan.

Atacanli also reminded that Zeynep Aran's health condition do not allow her for a journey, adding that it is not clear yet when bodies of Senay Aran and Irem Aran will be brought to Turkey.

Meanwhile, Pakistani President Refik Tarar sent a message to President Suleyman Demirel, and expressed condolences upon the demise of Mrs. and Miss. Aran.

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Shariff sent a message to Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, Pakistani Foreign Minister Sertach Aziz sent a message to his Turkish counterpart Ismail Cem, and Pakistani Undersecretary of Foreign Ministry sent a message to Korkmaz Haktanir, the Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry, to express condolences.

[32] COE TO WATCH CHIEF TERRORIST TRIAL IN ROTATION

Officials of the COE said that Walter Schwimmer, the Austrian Parliamentarian and a rapporteur of Turkey will watch the first hearing on May 31.

After Schwimmer, Gunnar Jansson, the Finish parliamentarian and the Chairman of COEPA Legal Affairs will participate in the second court hearing on June 1.

Victor Ruffy, the Chairman of COEPA Political Commission and Andreas Barsony, the Hungarian parliamentarian and another rapporteur of Turkey will attend the session which will take place on June 2.

Meanwhile, Francesco Speroni, the Italian parliamentarian, and Vermot Mangold, the Swiss parliamentarian who are known for their speeches supporting the terrorist organization, are also among the 12 parliamentarians who are permitted to watch the trial.

Interpreters will be assigned in the court room for COEPA parliamentarians who will watch the trial in rotation.

Russel Johnson, the British parliamentarian and the Chairman of the COEPA said one month ago that the parliamentarians who will watch the trial are not observors.

COEPA had said after the capture of the chief terrorist that Turkey was a party to the European Convention of Human Rights and a member of COE, and requested for a fair trial, and called on Turkey to abolish the death penalty.

[33] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT: ''TRNC PRODUCER HAS TO SELL ITS PRODUCT IN TURKISH MARKET''

Addressing a seminar on ''Improvement of Commercial Relations Among Cooperatives,'' Denktas said that their wish is to put into force the cooperation among the two countries, stressing that TRNC will benefit from the cooperation among cooperatives between the two countries in a great extent.

Noting that if the producer in TRNC can sell the things they produced in Turkish market, this will make TRNC producer advance, Denktas said that the two sides have many things to learn from each other concerning cooperatives, adding the agents in commerce between the two countries have to be abolished.

Referring to the Cyprus issue, Denktas said that Cyprus is a national cause which does not only aim at protecting Turkish Cypriots, but also protecting the rights and interests of Turkey in the region.

Pointing out that they continue their struggle in very difficult conditions, Denktas said that the Greek-Greek Cypriot front tries to disturb the balance on Cyprus and the application of the Greek Cypriot side to the European Union (EU) is a part of this game.

Dervis Eroglu, the TRNC Prime Minister said in his part that improvement of reciprocal cooperation among cooperatives is very important in respect of the Common Economic Area tried to be formed with Turkey.

Ertugrul Apakan, the Turkish Ambasador to TRNC said that this cooperation can be broadened to Turkish Republics.

Metin Sahin, the Minister of Industry and Commerce said that cooperatives are ''local democracy schools'' in respect of their functions, adding there are 73,000 cooperatives in Turkey including 20 private cooperatives inspected by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, adding 48,000 of them work actively having 4.6 million members.

Ayhan Savoglu, the Registrar of the Northern Cypriot Cooperative Firms said in his part that there are 214 cooperatives in TRNC, adding cooperatives are indispensable institutions for TRNC.

[34] ESCORT STARTS PC EXPORT TO EUROPE

Addressing a press conference, Behzat Azeri, Director General of the Escort Company, stressed that Turkey has found a new opportunity in the foreign trade with the beginning of PC export.

Adnan Paputcu, the Director of Exportation and Foreign Bureaus, said that they have been working on marketing computer to the world for 10 months.

He added that they have encountered with many difficulties such as lack of experience, local laws, and standards within this period.

Noting that they have succeeded in overcoming all difficulties, Paputcu described the agreement with the Karstadt-Hertie-Quelle as the most significant exportation agreement they have ever made.

Paputcu added that their target is to become an international company by realizing 51 percent of their sales in foreign countries.

[35] TUSIAD DELEGATION IN GERMANY - YUCAOGLU, TUSIAD CHAIRMAN: ''ECONOMIC REFORMS PLAY A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN TURKEY'' - HENKEL, BDI CHAIRMAN: ''TURKEY IS ON RIGHT TRACK REGARDING MEMBERSHIP TO EU''

Addresing a press briefing together with Hans-Olaf Henkel, the Chairman of BDI, Yucaoglu said that the partnership of TUSIAD-BDI which has been continuing for two years, is a search for a common platform.

Yucaoglu pointed out that the aim at improvement of Turkish-German cooperation, taking up common investment projects, forming common platforms regarding Turkey's membership to the EU and informing both the Turkish and German governments about specific measures that should be taken in certain sectors.

Noting that the economic reforms that should be taken up by Turkey play a significant role in that respect, Yucaoglu noted that the inflation rate and the budget deficits have to be decreased, and Turkey has to reach an economic level foreseen by the Maastricht criteria.

Pointing out that these measures are related with legal arrangements and should be discused by the parliament, Yucaoglu said that ''when the parliament adopts some laws, these reforms will be realized.''

If serious reforms are undertaken in the field of social security and if privatization is eased by legal arrangements, Turkey will receive an important fund from the world which will increase foreign capital and help in financing important projects, said Yucaoglu, adding TUSIAD favours realization of a series of political and democratization reforms in Turkey.

''We wish the parliament to work again and the new government to take these reforms to its agenda. We exert efforts to this end,'' said Yucaoglu.

Referring to the Turkish tourism, TUSIAD Chairman said that tourists don't have any difficulties in Turkey, adding ''if there is one incident and bomb attack in Turkey, three bombs explode in London and other incidents take place there.''

Stressing that these incidents are perceived differently by the world press, Yucaoglu said that ''we wish the end of misinformation about tourism in Turkey, and wish the world media to be objective.''

''There is an unjust campaign carried out against Turkey,'' added Yucaoglu, adding there is no need for such an unjust campaign.

Henkel, the Chairman of German Industrialists Union said in his part that ''reciprocal visits between Turkey and Germany aims at extending support to Turkey's membership to the European Union (EU). Turkey is on right track regarding membership to the EU, particularly after the Cardiff Summit, Turkey was accepted as the candidate regarding full membership. This is important for the two countries.''

Noting that Turkey's membership to the EU will be at the agenda during the contacts of TUSIAD in Bonn, Henkel said that the new German coalition government is more frank towards Turkey compared to the former government.

Referring to the tourism issue, Henkel said that there is no reason for the German tourists not to visit Turkey, adding there is no ''less or more'' risk of danger in Turkey.

Emphazising the fact that tourists from Italy, Britain, and Scandinavian countries continue to visit Turkey, Henkel said that he does not understand why less German tourists visit Turkey.

''In my opinion this stems from the news published in German press saying that the danger in Turkey increases. It is time to remind the German press its responsibilities towards Turkey. I call on the German press to be more honest towards Turkey,'' Henkel added.

TUSIAD delegation later met with Cem Ozdemir, the internal policy spokesman of Union 90-Green Party.

A.A

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