Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-07-06

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AA Daily

06 July 1999 Tuesday

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT: - ''MAKARIOS DID WHAT MILOSEVIC DID IN KOSOVO TO US BETWEEN 1963 AND 1974''

[03] NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS MEETING - PARTICIPANTS CANNOT HAVE A COMPROMISE ON RETIREMENT AGE, PROTECTION OF VESTED INTERESTS, LABOUR SECURITY AND UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE

[04] TURKISH-ROMANIAN RELATIONS - ERSUMER, ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES MINISTER: - ''WE HAVE AGREED TO SET UP A JOINT WORK GROUP BETWEEN TURKEY AND ROMANIA TO IMPROVE THE COOPERATION IN ENERGY SECTOR''

[05] GOVERNMENT APPLIES TO OFFICE OF PARLIAMENT SPEAKER FOR RENEWAL OF 24 DRAFT LAWS

[06] MANY AEGEANS TO GO TO SINOP, ELAZIG AND DIYARBAKIR TO WATCH TOTAL SUN ECLIPSE ON AUGUST 11

[07] VISITS OF KIVRIKOGLU, CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF, TO CZECH REPUBLIC, HUNGARY, AND POLAND

[08] DURMUS, HEALTH MINISTER, RETURNS FROM U.S. - DURMUS: ''SETTING UP BONE MARROW TRANSPLANTATION CENTERS CARRIES IMPORTANCE FOR TURKEY, NOT SETTING UP MARROW BANKS''

[09] HEAD OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION, OCALAN'S STATEMENTS IGNITE FIGHT BETWEEN PKK SUPPORTERS AND ILLEGAL LEFTIST ORGANIZATIONS - ILLEGAL MLKP'S STATEMENT SAYS OCALAN'S CALL FOR UNITY AND PEACE WAS 'DEGRADING' - STATEMENT SAYS PKK FELL APART

[10] SETTLEMENT EFFORTS OF TURKISH UNIT IN KOSOVO UNDERWAY - SEVIN, COMMANDER OF UNIT: ''WE WILL FULFIL OUR MISSION WITH SUCCESS''

[11] BALGIMBAYEV, KAZAKH PRIME MINISTER, IN SOUTHERN ANTALYA PROVINCE

[12] ''FLEET OF THE CENTURY'' ORGANIZATION - TCG YILDIRIM FRIGATE, BELONGING TO TURKISH NAVAL FORCES, TO PARTICIPATE IN AN ORGANIZATION THAT WILL BE STAGED IN ROUEN HARBOUR OF FRANCE BETWEEN JULY 9 AND 18 - TCG YILDIRIM FRIGATE IS THE FIRST TURKISH WAR SHIP WHICH PAYS HARBOUR VISITS TO BALTIC COUNTRIES

[13] IT IS TIME FOR AGRICULTURAL POLICY REFORM FOLLOWING BANKS LAW

[14] TURK-IS CHAIRMEN COUNCIL CONVENES TO DISCUSS DRAFT LAW ON SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM

[15] SUPPORTERS OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION OCCUPY TURKEY'S ECONOMY AND TRADE CONSULTANCY BUREAU IN ROME

[16] MHP GROUP MEETING - BAHCELI, MHP LEADER: ''WE WILL TRY TO IMPROVE THE DRAFT LAW WHICH WAS PREPARED BY THE LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY MINISTRY AND WILL DO OUR BEST TO LEGALIZE THIS DRAFT LAW''

[17] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, IN ANKARA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''THE COOPERATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ROMANIA CONSTITUTES A MILESTONE FOR THE PEACE AND STABILITY OF THE BALKANS''

[18] MHP GROUP MEETING - MHP LEADER BAHCELI: ''NOBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO USE HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE AS A POLITICAL MANIPULATION TOOL''

[19] GAZIANTEP UNIVERSITY AND ALEPPO UNIVERSITY SIGN A PROTOCOL ON IMPROVEMENT OF COOPERATION

[20] ERTUGRULOGLU, TRNC FOREIGN AND DEFENSE MINISTER: - ''WE ARE READY TO START TALKS WITH THE GREEK CYPRIOT SIDE IN THE LEVEL OF TWO STATES ''

[21] TURKISH EMBASSY IN ROME PROTESTS ITALY

[22] BLACK SEA TRIP OF TRNC PRESIDENT DENKTAS - DENKTAS: ''RECOGNITION OF TRNC BY TURKEY IS ABOVE EVERYTHING''

[23] DEMIRALP, NEW TREASURY UNDERSECRETARY: - ''THE MEETINGS WITH THE IMF WILL CONTINUE IN THE DIRECTION OF THE INTERESTS OF TURKEY''

[24] MESSAGE FROM AYGUN, CHAIRMAN OF ATO, TO ROME CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: - ''WE ARE ASTONISHED TO SEE THAT ITALY WHICH WE KNOW AS A FRIEND AND ALLY, INCREASES HER SUPPORT TO THE HEAD OF THE TERRORIST ORGANIZATION TO HIGHER LEVELS''

[25] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''ITALY ACTS TOO TOLERANT FOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION, IT EVEN SHOW A SUPPORTIVE ATTITUTE''

[26] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, VISITS AKBULUT, PARLIAMENT SPEAKER

[27] FOREIGN MINISTRY LAUNCHES INITIATIVES AGAINST ITALIAN EMBASSY IN ANKARA FOR OCCUPATION OF TURKISH EMBASSY COMMERCIAL OFFICE IN ROME BY SUPPORTERS OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION

[28] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, IN ANKARA - FIVE DOCUMENTS SIGNED BETWEEN TURKISH AND ROMANIAN DELEGATIONS

[29] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, RECEIVES PREMIER ECEVIT

[30] STATE MINISTER UNLU IN THE TRNC

[31] ROMANIAN PRESIDENT CONSTANTINESCU IN ANKARA - CONSTANTINESCU EVALUATES RELATIONS BETWEEN TURKEY AND ROMANIA: - ''THERE IS NO PROBLEM IN OUR RELATIONS''

[32] SUPPORTERS OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION OCCUPY TURKISH EMBASSY COMMERCIAL OFFICE IN ROME - PRESIDENT DEMIREL CONDEMNS THE INCIDENT: - ''THOSE WHO SUPPORT TERRORISM, COMMIT CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY''

[33] PRESIDENT DEMIREL MEETS WITH HIS KAZAKH COUNTERPART NAZARBAYEV IN ANTALYA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: - ''RELATIONS BETWEEN TWO SISTER COUNTRIES WILL FURTHER IMPROVE'' - PRESIDENT NAZARBAYEV INVITES DEMIREL TO KAZAKHSTAN

[34] ROMANIAN PRESIDENT CONSTANTINESCU IN ANKARA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL DECORATES HIS ROMANIAN COUNTERPART WITH STATE MEDAL

[35] PRESIDENT DEMIREL HOSTS A DINNER IN HONOUR OF HIS ROMANIAN COUNTERPART CONSTANTINESCU - DEMIREL: - ''HOSTILE POLICIES INCITED BY ETHNIC NATIONALISM CAUSED ANOTHER HUMANITARIAN TRAGEDY IN OUR REGION''

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL)

TOBB WARNS ITALY WITH A LETTER
Fuat Miras, the Chairman of the Executive Board of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), sent on Monday a letter to Danilo Longhi, the Chairman of the Italian Trade, Industry, and Agriculture Chambers Union, to protest the Italian parliament's extraordinary meeting regarded with Abdullah Ocalan, the head of terrorist organization, which will be held tomorrow.

In his letter, Miras underlined that it is enough to have a look at the Italian newspapers issued between November and December, 1998 to remember the real face of terrorist organization PKK.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

TURKISH TROOPS IN DRAGAS
Turkish troops in Kosovo began to settle down Dragas, which is under its responsibility. Turkish peace forces will use former Drateks textile factory, which is near Dragas village that is on the Gagas Mountain in Macedonia border, as the base. First convoy of Turkish Peace Forces started to detect mines and make environmental arrangements.

SABAH (LIBERAL)

LIVE BOMB ATTACK IN ADANA
Rusen Tabanci, the woman terrorist of PKK, who used the code name ''Berfin Zozan'' detonated bombs strapped to her body, killing herself and injuring 18 people, eight of them police, outside a police station in the southern city of Adana on Monday.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

NO COMPROMISE COULD BE REACHED
Specialists of Turk-Is, DISK, Hak-Is, and TISK, who convened in TISK General Center, convened on Monday to discuss the preliminary draft. Yet, no compromise could be reached at the meeting which lasted for four hours.

Employers said they will not accept ''unemployment insurance and labour guarantee''. Meanwhile, the labour confederation said they could only discuss retirement age as ''53-58'' only if these two conditions are accepted.

RADIKAL (LEFT)

90 THOUSAND CHILDREN TRIED EVERY YEAR
The UN Children's Rights Agreement defines a person under the age of 18 as a child. The Turkish Civil Code also agrees on the age 18. However, the Children's Court law try children only who are below 15. Last year 19 children who were between ages of 11 and 14 were tried at State Security Courts (DGM). Askin Yasar, the member of Istanbul Barr Children's Commission said this violated international agreements Turkey signed. ''Turkey accepts international agreements which suggests special courts for children tries them at DGM's. They are discriminated according to the crimes they commit. All children must be tried at special courts regardless of their crimes,'' Yasar Stated. Turkey which tries an avarage of 90 thousand children every year has Children's Courts only in Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir, and Trabzon.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

Denktas said, ''the Greek Cypriots talk about the victory of Greeks. They regard entering to the EU as a right which has priority. Why do they make Cyprus the EU full member before Turkey? They think that Turkey's rights on Cyprus would be lifted that time. There should be a balance with those people. Of course, we have formulated this balance with Turkey. We said there can be state to state talks. We are determined at this point. Thus, the words of G-8 countries will not bind us.''

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

PKK COULD NOT WAIT FOR THE DECISION OF APPEALS COURT
Terrorism shed blood in southern Adana province after Elazig, Van, and Avcilar district of Istanbul. Bomb attacks which started with the death sentence given to Abdullah Ocalan, the head of the terrorist organization, continue. A total of 14 people were injured in an suicide attack on a police station in the southern city of Adana on Monday. The live bomb was a 19-year old woman. Terrorists had staged attacks to the same spot two times earlier. According to the intelligence sources, bomb attacks of terrorist PKK organization will continue in big cities.

[02] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT: - ''MAKARIOS DID WHAT MILOSEVIC DID IN KOSOVO TO US BETWEEN 1963 AND 1974''

Addressing a statement in northeastern Trabzon province, Denktas noted that the real orbit of Cyprus is the Turkish-Greek orbit and that the Cyprus question is the question which the Greece started by benefiting from the Greek Cypriots to make ''enosis'' (union with Greece) come true.

Denktas said, ''Makarios did what Milosevic did in Kosovo to us between 1963 and 1974. Those who are trying to try Milosevic in a court as a person who committed crimes of humanity, want to make Makarios who committed the same crime, the legal government of Cyprus. Unfortunately, they think that they placed Makarios on the top of Cyprus.''

Noting that the Greek Cypriots imagine that the Turks will either obey them or leave Cyprus, Denktas said, ''the Greek Cypriots are talking about the victory of the Greeks. They consider the membership of the European Union (EU) as a prior right. Why Cyprus is integrated with the EU with its present structure and before the integration of Turkey? Then, they think that the rights of Turkey on Cyprus will be removed.''

''It is necessary to set up a balance to start talks with these people who are making these calculations. We have formulated this balance together with Turkey. We said that we can have state-to-state talks and we stop at this point. We insist on stopping at this point. To this end, the statements of the G-8 countries do not concern us,'' Denktas added.

Stressing that Kofi Annan, the United Nations (U.N) Secretary General did not invite the two leaders on Cyprus for talks, Denktas stated that the timing of this invitation was wrong and that there is not a proper ground for talks.

Denktas said, ''there is no joint issues. We told Annan that a shuttle diplomacy can be held to set up the joint issues but that it will be meaningless to invite the two leaders on Cyprus to talks without making preparations. Such talks will not give any result. And, we told him that only the Greek Cypriots will benefit from such talks because when we hold meetings, the Greek Cypriot leader will show himself as the 'government of Cyprus' in the end of the meetings.''

''To this end, what we talked at the table will be multiplied by a zero. We earlier said that we would not do such thing. For this reason, I do not expect a direct invitation from Annan. I know that he will not invite us because he knows that we won't go despite his invitation,'' Denktas added.

When recalled that the countries which participated in the Seventh Convention of Turkish States and Communities Friendship, Fraternity, and Cooperation decided to support TRNC; Denktas stressed that he hopes that this will come true and that the TRNC deserves this support.

Denktas added that the friendly countries should be in solidarity with this new country and that they expect this solidarity.

[03] NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS MEETING - PARTICIPANTS CANNOT HAVE A COMPROMISE ON RETIREMENT AGE, PROTECTION OF VESTED INTERESTS, LABOUR SECURITY AND UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE

The chairmen of the Turkish Trade Unions Federation (Turk-Is), the Confederation of Revolutionary Workers' Unions (DISK), the Confederation of Right Labour Unions (Hak-Is), the Confederation of Turkish Employers' Unions (TISK), the Turkish Union of Chambers and Connodity Exchanges (TOBB), the Turkish Traders and Small Businessmen's Confederation (TESK), and the representatives of the Turkish Union of Industrialists and Businessmen (TUSIAD) and Turkish Union of Chambers of Agriculture (TZOB) could not have a compromise on the mentioned points in the meeting which lasted for nearly four hours.

The labour confederations insisted on the labour security, the unemployment insurance, and the protection of the vested interests while the employer sector did not agree with these points.

Turk-Is, Hak-Is, and DISK demanded that the retirement age should be 50 and 55 and the premium payment will be 5,000 days while TUSIAD said that the retirement age should be 62 in men and women and the premium payment will be 10,800 days as is foreseen in the Draft Law prepared by the Labour and Social Security Ministry, but TISK proposed that the retirement age should be 58 and 60 and the premium payment should be 5,000 days.

The non-governmental organizations decided to come together on Tuesday to discuss the draft law one more time.

Addressing a statement to the journalists following the meeting; Salim Uslu, the Chairman of Hak-Is, said that they could not have a consensus on the retirement age, the protection of the vested interests, the labour security, and the unemployment insurance.

Uslu noted that the related parties will evaluate their meeting within themselves and that they will come together again on Tuesday.

Stressing that everybody is trying to reach a consensus in the meeting and that the three labour confederations are taking joint steps, Uslu stated that there is a draft on which the International Monetary Fund (IMF) insists, but they are discussing the issue among themselves as if they were discussing the draft with the IMF.

[04] TURKISH-ROMANIAN RELATIONS - ERSUMER, ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES MINISTER: - ''WE HAVE AGREED TO SET UP A JOINT WORK GROUP BETWEEN TURKEY AND ROMANIA TO IMPROVE THE COOPERATION IN ENERGY SECTOR''

Ersumer received Radu Berceanu, the Romanian Industry and Trade Minister and the Co-President of the Turkish-Romanian Joint Economic Commission.

Addressing a statement following the meeting, Ersumer noted that they discussed the energy initiatives between Turkey and Romania.

Stressing that Romania will submit bids for the Afsin-Elbistan coal zone, Ersumer stated that Romania wants to construct dams in Turkey within the framework of the bilateral agreements and that she wants to submit bids for the construction of the transmission lines.

Berceanu said that Romania is experienced in energy initiatives and that she realizes many projects of the world countries at reasonable prices.

Noting that he believes that the energy projects will improve the Turkish- Romanian relations, Berceanu added that the Turkish and Romanian officials will inform Constantinescu and President Suleyman Demirel about the issues which were discussed in Turkish-Romanian Joint Economic Commission.

[05] GOVERNMENT APPLIES TO OFFICE OF PARLIAMENT SPEAKER FOR RENEWAL OF 24 DRAFT LAWS

The dossier which was sent to the Office of Parliament Speaker requested the renewal of the draft laws which were prepared in the former legislature period.

The draft laws which the government demands to be renewed are as follows:

-The Draft Law on Changing the Customs Law,

-Draft Law on Changing the Law Concerning the Prevention of the Unfair Competition in Imports,

-Draft Law on Housing,

-Draft Law on Changing One Article of the Law on the Establishment and the Responsibilities of the Directorate of Religious Affairs,

-Draft Law on Adding One Article to the Law on the Establishment and the Responsibilities of the Directorate of Religious Affairs,

-Draft Law on Changing the Law Concerning the Farmers,

-Draft Law on the Medicines of Malaria and Syphilis,

-Draft Law on Protecting the Goods of the Farmers,

-Draft Law on the Agricultural Struggle and Agricultural Quarantine,

-Draft Law on Mine Law,

-Draft Law on Changing the Cadastre Law,

-Draft Law on Changing One Article of the Law Concerning the Establishment and the Responsibilities of the Directorate General of Rural Affairs,

-Draft Law on Changing the Law Concerning the Civil Servants and Other Public Officials,

-Draft Law on the Establishment and the Responsibilities of the General Directorate of Family Research Institution,

-Draft Law on the Establishment and the Responsibilities of the General Directorate of Status of Women,

-Draft Law on the Establishment and the Responsibilities of the Health Ministry,

-Draft Law on Changing the Law Concerning the Council of State.

[06] MANY AEGEANS TO GO TO SINOP, ELAZIG AND DIYARBAKIR TO WATCH TOTAL SUN ECLIPSE ON AUGUST 11

The moon will come between the world and the sun blocking the sun light, therefore some parts of the world will not receive sun light, Evren explained. The full sun eclipse will be observed from Sinop, Diyarbakir, and Elazig while it will be viewed around 90-95 percent from Marmara, Central Anatolia, Aegean, and Mediterranean regions.

''Receiving even five percent of sunlight prevents the observation of a full sun eclipse. We warn everyone all around Turkey not to look at the sun with naked eye during the eclipse. Burnt films, or x-ray films can be used. Otherwise the sun light can cause serious damage to your eyes,'' he said.

The sun eclipse will start at 1.30 p.m. on August 11 and the observation period will vary in different locations in Turkey. In Sinop, Elazig, and Diyarbakir, where full eclipse can be seen, people can even see stars in the middle of the day.

Prof. Evren stated that university students, and people who have different occupations from different age groups are getting ready to go to Sinop, Elazig, and Diyarbakir. He also added that his group has not made any preparations at the university's Isikkent observatory as they will go to Elazig to watch the sun eclipse.

[07] VISITS OF KIVRIKOGLU, CHIEF OF GENERAL STAFF, TO CZECH REPUBLIC, HUNGARY, AND POLAND

A statement of General Staff General Secretariat said Gen. Kivrikoglu visited Czech Republic between June 28 and 30, 1999 as the official guest of Gen. Jiri Sedivy, the Chief of General Staff of Czech Republic, and Hungary between June 30-July 2 as the official guest of Gen. Ferenc Vegh, and Poland between July 2-5 as the official guest of Gen. Henryk Szumski, the Polish Chief of General Staff.

The statement said the NATO alliance, the cooperation in the field of defense industry, and joint issues between the countries in question were discussed during the visit of Gen. Kivrikoglu.

The statement said the sides exchanged views on issues that may be cooperated between Turkey and Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, the three countries who have newly participated in NATO alliance, basing on military training, bilateral relations and within the context of preservation of regional peace and stability.

The statement pointed out that such kind of visits contributed a lot to the positive relations and cooperation between the countries and that they will form a base for the friendship that will continue increasingly in the future.

[08] DURMUS, HEALTH MINISTER, RETURNS FROM U.S. - DURMUS: ''SETTING UP BONE MARROW TRANSPLANTATION CENTERS CARRIES IMPORTANCE FOR TURKEY, NOT SETTING UP MARROW BANKS''

Durmus returned to Turkey from the U.S. where he went to participate in the meeting of the United Nations (U.N.) World Population Activities Fund.

Addressing a press conference at Ataturk Airport of Istanbul, Durmus noted that there are 40,000 patients with leukaemia in Turkey and that 90 percent of these people have the chance to recover by chemotheraphy.

Durmus added that 4,000 of these patients needs bonemarrow transplantation.

Recalling that people in Turkey have more than one brothers or sisters, Durmus stated that the bonemarrow transplantation can be made between brothers and sisters.

Stressing that supporting the bonemarrow transplantation centers carries importance rather than setting up bonemarrow banks, Durmus stated that the people who can find the appropriate bonemarrow have to wait because the bonemarrow transplantation centers are not sufficient enough.

When asked whether the blood samples which were collected for Oktar Babuna, a doctor with leukaemia, were sent abroad for another reason; Durmus said that he does not agree with that and that some friends started this campaign for good will.

Durmus said, ''hundred thousands of blood samples were sent abroad. The samples were delivered to private laboratories, not the universities. They want us to have problems with these institutions. The Health Ministry does not have a committment.''

Responding a question whether or not he carried out efforts to bring back the blood samples to Turkey, Durmus stated that when they launched efforts, they came face to face with two friends of Babuna and that the officials of the laboratory said that Turkey has to pay some money to take back the blood samples.

Durmus added that he will try his best to take the blood samples back to Turkey.

[09] HEAD OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION, OCALAN'S STATEMENTS IGNITE FIGHT BETWEEN PKK SUPPORTERS AND ILLEGAL LEFTIST ORGANIZATIONS - ILLEGAL MLKP'S STATEMENT SAYS OCALAN'S CALL FOR UNITY AND PEACE WAS 'DEGRADING' - STATEMENT SAYS PKK FELL APART

The illegal MLKP blames Ocalan for acting cowardly while TKP/ML stated that the PKK must quit the United Revolutionary Forces Platform.

A ''Workers Class Movement in Turkey'' panel was organized in Germany's Stuttgart city. Selim Firat and Hasan Oguz, two correspondants of Ozgur Politika newspaper, the mouthpiece of PKK, attended the panel as speakers. Fierce debates took place between the members of PKK, MLKP, and TKP/ML at the panel.

''None of the leftist organizations in Turkey which act like servants of Kemalism can be the leader of the workers class. Only PKK, today, can be the leader of the workers class in Turkey,'' claimed Selim Firat.

Later, Huseyin Hazar, a high level member of illegal MLKP, who was furious at Firat's words, said ''those who blame the Turkish leftists for being Kemalists should first criticise their leader.'' ''Abdullah Ocalan, whom you call a leader, has turned to a big Kemalist during the trial out of fear,'' he said angrily. The tension in the hall increased further when Hazar said ''Abdullah Ocalan must be criticized because he did not resist like even an ordinary organization member.''

Meanwhile, the supporters of TKP/ML pointed out that terrorist organization PKK which blames the Turkish left for being Kemalists should quit the ''United Revolutionary Forces Platform'' immediately.

MLKP, on the other hand, issued a statement in Germany which condemned Ocalan. ''Ocalan did not behave like a man of cause. He made lots of concessions. He expressed that he was ready to comply for peace and unity. He damaged the heritage and tradition of PKK,'' the statement said. The MLKP's statement also found Ocalan's statements ''degrading'' and stated that PKK fell apart.

[10] SETTLEMENT EFFORTS OF TURKISH UNIT IN KOSOVO UNDERWAY - SEVIN, COMMANDER OF UNIT: ''WE WILL FULFIL OUR MISSION WITH SUCCESS''

Tarik Sevin, the Commander of the Turkish unit, said that they arrived in the region on Sunday and that they started to settle down in Dragas immediately; adding that they will start their mission as soon as the other parts of the Turkish unit arrives in Dragas.

Emphasizing that there are some problems in the region where the Turkish units will realize their mission, Sevin noted that they believe that they will solve these problems as soon as possible and will fulfill their mission with success.

Meanwhile, the second convoy of Turkish units which is set up by the military vehicles is expected to arrive in Dragas on Tuesday noon.

Turkish peace forces carry out efforts to arrange the former Drateks textile factory, which is near Dragas village that is on the Gagas Mountain in Macedonia border, as their base. Turkish Peace Forces started to detect mines and make environmental arrangements.

[11] BALGIMBAYEV, KAZAKH PRIME MINISTER, IN SOUTHERN ANTALYA PROVINCE

Addressing a statement in Antalya Airport, Balgimbayev said that he came to Antalya to inform Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakh President who is spending a holiday in this city, about the economic and social situation of Kazakhstan and that he will visit President Suleyman Demirel.

Expressing the Turkish-Kazakh relations in his speech, Balgimbayev noted that the economic relations between the two Turkish countries are perfect and that the military relations are improving day by day.

Balgimbayev stated that the Turkish universities which were opened in Kazakhstan and the Kazakh students who are having education in Turkey indicate the unity of the two countries in educational field.

Balgimbayev and his 12-member delegation will stay for two days in Turkey.

The Kazakh delegation headed by Balgimbayev will depart Antalya on July 7, 1999.

[12] ''FLEET OF THE CENTURY'' ORGANIZATION - TCG YILDIRIM FRIGATE, BELONGING TO TURKISH NAVAL FORCES, TO PARTICIPATE IN AN ORGANIZATION THAT WILL BE STAGED IN ROUEN HARBOUR OF FRANCE BETWEEN JULY 9 AND 18 - TCG YILDIRIM FRIGATE IS THE FIRST TURKISH WAR SHIP WHICH PAYS HARBOUR VISITS TO BALTIC COUNTRIES

A statement from the Office of General Staff said TCG Yildirim Frigate sailed off from Golcuk on June 28, 1999 to participate in the organization in question and to visit Baltic countries aiming to improve bilateral relations.

Throughout the sailing, the frigate will pay good-will visits to Cadiz harbour of Spain, Rouen of France, Helsinki of Finland, Talinn of Estonia, Riga of Latvia, Klaipeda of Lithuania, Gdynia of Polland, Lisbon harbour of Portugal.

The statement said TCG Frigate is the first Turkish warship which visits the harbours of Baltic countries, adding that it will contribute to the improvement of relations.

The frigate is expected to return to Turkey on August 25, 1999.

[13] IT IS TIME FOR AGRICULTURAL POLICY REFORM FOLLOWING BANKS LAW

A delegation from the World Bank will come to Turkey on the weekend to investigate the technical and financial support opportunities for an agricultural policy reform. The authorities will do a detailed study on Turkey's agricultural structure and financing policies.

Polatli will be used as a pilot region for the project as it is an agricultural center and has a cereal stock market. Agricultural policy studies will be tested in Polatli and then will be put into application all over Turkey depending on the test results.

Both the IMF and the World Bank stress that Turkey can set aside sources from its budget every year for agriculture like the Western countries. They also agree that the present system which increases Turkey's public financement deficit must be changed.

The IMF delegation which completed its annual economic studies in Turkey last Friday, released a final statement about Turkish economy. The IMF's statement said the government was determined to carry out a reform on its agricultural policy. The government authorities aim to provide direct income for those who work in agriculture sector rather than agricultural products subsidies and this was defined as an important movement by the IMF.

[14] TURK-IS CHAIRMEN COUNCIL CONVENES TO DISCUSS DRAFT LAW ON SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM

The Turk-Is Chaırmen Council convened to discuss the studies carried out for the social security reform. ''A draft law has to include unemployment pay and job security in order to be called a reform. This draft has two issues. One of them is to meet IMF's demands and suspend already acquired rights in retirement and the second one is to increase the retirement age and make people retire in their graves,'' Meral stated.

He argued that the Social Security's (SSK) problems cannot be solved by increasing the retirement age, and proposed solutions like keeping a record of unregistered workers, democratization of the SSK and making it independent, collecting premiums, and avoiding wasteful consumption of medicines.

[15] SUPPORTERS OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION OCCUPY TURKEY'S ECONOMY AND TRADE CONSULTANCY BUREAU IN ROME

The terrorists are estimated to be a group of 15 to 20 people and caused damage in the building.

Kadir Aslan, the Counsellor of Economy; Osman Dogangun, the Head Counsellor of Trade, and his assistant Muzaffer Soysanli, and Sara Ozbayrak, the secretary were taken hostage.

The terrorists who are currently inside the building are chanting slogans.

[16] MHP GROUP MEETING - BAHCELI, MHP LEADER: ''WE WILL TRY TO IMPROVE THE DRAFT LAW WHICH WAS PREPARED BY THE LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY MINISTRY AND WILL DO OUR BEST TO LEGALIZE THIS DRAFT LAW''

Speaking in the MHP Group meeting, Bahceli noted that the social security system in Turkey is gradually becoming gangrenous and that it should be treated as soon as possible.

Stressing that there have been many initiatives to solve this problem and that these initiatives did not give any results until today, Bahceli stated that the Economic and Social Commission convened and the representatives of the non-governmental organizations showed that they want to have a compromise among themselves.

Bahceli said, ''the most important thing for us is finding the most optimum point among the socio-economic balances, the problems of the workers, and the expectations. Our government will give the final shape to this draft law by taking into consideration the criticisms about the social security reform, especially the criticisms about the retirement age. Nobody should have a doubt about this.''

Mentioning the Cyprus question, Bahceli stressed that this question started to occupy the first place of the international agenda and that there is an international public opinion which is against Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in the end of the open and hidden efforts of the lobby against Turkey that is pioneered by Greece.

Bahceli said, ''Turkey is introduced as the party which does not want a lasting solution. But, Turkish Republic has never deserved such a criticism. Turkey is against the unilateral obstinacies and the approaches which exclude Turkish society from Cyprus. Turkey will continue to be against such efforts.''

[17] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, IN ANKARA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''THE COOPERATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ROMANIA CONSTITUTES A MILESTONE FOR THE PEACE AND STABILITY OF THE BALKANS''

Speaking in the official ceremony to welcome Emil Constantinescu, the Romanian President who arrived in Ankara as the official guest of President Demirel, Demirel noted that he believes that the friendly relations between the two countries will improve after the visit of Constantinescu.

Stressing that the regular meetings of the Presidents of Turkey and Romania aims at serving for the regional peace and stability, Demirel stated that they will discuss the bilateral relations and the latest developments in the international arena.

Drawing the attention that there are historical developments in the Balkans after his last meeting with Constantinescu, Demirel stressed that the continuation of the ethnic cleansing which was carried out against the Kosovars despite all their warnings, led to international society's to take action against this inhumane campaign.

Recalling that NATO stopped this violence in Kosovo, Demirel emphasized that the most prior issues at the moment is the establishment of lasting peace in Kosovo, the ensuring of the return of the refugees to their homes before winter, and the restructuring and reconstruction of the region.

Emphasizing that the things which were faced in Kosovo indicated that the problems in the Balkans have a direct relation with the peace and security of Europe, Demirel pointed out that; thus, the importance of inclusion of all the regional countries, especially Romania, within the framework of enhancing European security is noticed.

Constantinescu said that the relations between the two countries gained new dimensions and that he comes together with President Demirel twice a year within the framework of regular consultations.

Drawing the attention to the latest developments in the Balkans, Constantinescu noted that the relations among the regional countries reached a new stage in the end of the incidents in Kosovo.

Thanking Turkey for supporting Romania in NATO membership issue, Constantinescu stated that Romania supports Turkey in becoming a full member of the European Union (EU).

Later, Demirel and Constantinescu started the tete-a-tete meeting.

Turkey and Romania are expected to sign various documents in the end of the inter-delegationary meetings.

[18] MHP GROUP MEETING - MHP LEADER BAHCELI: ''NOBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO USE HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE AS A POLITICAL MANIPULATION TOOL''

''The campaigns carried out in many European countries, mainly in Italy and Greece, the countries which helped the terrorist organization to gain strength proved Turkey right. Their reactions against the death penalty given to him, revealed their hypocracy once again. The Italian Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister who lost credibility in their own countries complained to the UN and the EU about Turkey and made calls to put sanctions against Turkey. Undoubtedly, this will take place in history as the nonsense acts of some people. It is, by no means, impossible to associate these acts with the concept of human rights. Noboby has the right to use the human rights issue as a political manipulation tool,'' Bahceli said.

Some European press organs claim that Ocalan's death penalty might delay Turkey's membership to the EU, Bahceli reminded and said these views reveal a prejudiced and unserious approach.

The MHP leader pointed out that as the 57th government, they had huge problems which are the products of years of negligence and added that they will put every effort for the solution of these problems. The economic stagnation which Turkey is in has priority over other issues, he stressed. The economy will recover through the New Tax law and other measures which will be taken to meet the budget deficit.

[19] GAZIANTEP UNIVERSITY AND ALEPPO UNIVERSITY SIGN A PROTOCOL ON IMPROVEMENT OF COOPERATION

Prof. Dr. Huseyin Filiz, the Rector of GAZU, and Prof. Dr. Fadel Muazayek, the Deputy Rector of Aleppo University, signed the protocol which foresees GAZU's opening a Turkish Education Center in Aleppo.

The protocol also foresees mutual visits of the lecturers between the two universities for ten days to exchange views whenever they want.

Speaking in the ceremony, Filiz said that they want to have good relations with the Aleppo University in every field and that it is obligatory for the countries to have close relations with the other countries in education field.

Emphasizing that the visit of the lecturers of the Aleppo University is an important beginning for the improvement of the relations, Filiz noted that they will arrange a visit to Aleppo to improve the relations in the shortest time.

Mauzayek said that they are very pleased about the close interest of the people of Gaziantep and Kilis and requested that the lecturers of the two countries to come together more often to realize joint studies.

[20] ERTUGRULOGLU, TRNC FOREIGN AND DEFENSE MINISTER: - ''WE ARE READY TO START TALKS WITH THE GREEK CYPRIOT SIDE IN THE LEVEL OF TWO STATES ''

Addressing a press conference, Ertugruloglu noted that the TRNC will never start talks with the Greek Cypriots if TRNC is not recognized as a 'state.'

Stressing that the contents of the confederation proposal which was made on August 31, 1998 are very obvious, Ertugruloglu stated that if they start talks with the Greek Cypriot side, this means that everybody has accepted that there are two sovereign states on Cyprus and that nobody represents the other.

Noting that if the talks start within this framework, the TRNC will sit at the table, Ertugruloglu emphasized that the policy of TRNC is obvious and that it is not possible for them to take a step backwards.

When recalled that Detlev Graf Zu Rantzau, the special envoy of Germany to Cyprus, claimed that the decisions of the G-8 countries set up the basis of the talks on Cyprus, not the resolutions of the Security Council, Ertugruloglu stressed that the Turkish Cypriots do not change their policy after the statements of Rantzau.

Evaluating the 26th Islamic Conference Organization (ICO) Foreign Ministers Meeting, Ertugruloglu said that the meeting was very useful in reaching their targets.

Pointing out that they got the support for their confederation proposal in this meeting, Ertugruloglu noted that the TRNC aims at becoming the permanent member of ICO.

Ertugruloglu added that the Greek Cypriot initiative which was against the TRNC in the ICO meeting was unsuccessful due to the efficient efforts of Turkish side.

[21] TURKISH EMBASSY IN ROME PROTESTS ITALY

The note said that the Turkish government requests the capture of the activists and the trial of the activists in front of the court.

The note emphasized that in case such incidents happen again, all the responsibility will be imposed on Italian authorities.

The demonstrations ended after the Italian security forces had contacts with the activists and the Italian security forces released the activists.

The diplomatic sources said that Turkey is launching all kinds of initiatives in Rome and in Ankara, concerning the occupation of the Turkish Economy and Trade Consultancy Bureau in Rome.

[22] BLACK SEA TRIP OF TRNC PRESIDENT DENKTAS - DENKTAS: ''RECOGNITION OF TRNC BY TURKEY IS ABOVE EVERYTHING''

Denktas who continues his trip in Eastern Black Sea Region told reporters in Zitas Holiday Resort of Trabzon that ''it was not demoralizing for him to be recognized only by Turkey, but not by other countries.''

''If the whole world recognized me but not Turkey, that would have demoralized me,'' he said.

Denktas reminded that Clerides, the leader of the Greek Cypriot side, said he got close with Greece and there were no separations left between the Greek side of the Island and Greece. ''For their every single step towards Greece, we are taking three steps towards Turkey,'' he stated.

Upon a question about the US's attitute toward the Cyprus issue, Denktas said there has been a very powerful Greek lobby in the US since 1955 and the US wanted to solve this problem by giving Cyprus to Greece. ''They played this game for years, but they weren't successful,'' he added.

The TRNC President said he will run in the presidential elections next year in April. ''If you have strength, if your people and Turkey want you, then you continue,'' Denktas noted. ''I don't have the chance to get tired. When I put my head on the pillow at night, I get rid of all my exhaustion,'' he continued.

The TRNC President is met with the people's warm attention in all places he visits. Denktas who is in Rize on Tuesday will speak at ''The Situation of Cyprus and its Future'' conference on Wednesday. Denktas will later leave the region.

[23] DEMIRALP, NEW TREASURY UNDERSECRETARY: - ''THE MEETINGS WITH THE IMF WILL CONTINUE IN THE DIRECTION OF THE INTERESTS OF TURKEY''

Addressing a statement to the journalists, Demiralp noted that they will try to work harmoniously with the programme of the government and that they will do their best to solve the economic problems of Turkey.

Stressing that he will not change the policy of the Treasury, Demiralp stated that he will get use of the experiences of the Treasury in solving the problems.

Responding a question, Demiralp said that he cannot say anything about the news claiming that the IMF documents were leaked out of the Treasury.

[24] MESSAGE FROM AYGUN, CHAIRMAN OF ATO, TO ROME CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: - ''WE ARE ASTONISHED TO SEE THAT ITALY WHICH WE KNOW AS A FRIEND AND ALLY, INCREASES HER SUPPORT TO THE HEAD OF THE TERRORIST ORGANIZATION TO HIGHER LEVELS''

Aygun told in the message that they are astonished to see that Italy which is known as a friend and ally, increases her support to Abdullah Ocalan, the head of the terrorist organization, to higher levels.

Aygun noted that it is very terrifying that the European Union (EU) tried to use the statements which claimed that the trial was not impartial as a blackmailing chip, and to end this issue by granting political asylum to Ocalan.

Stressing that introducing Ocalan as a hero by Italy although he led to the death of 30,000 people and injured thousands of others is only a ''mala fides'', Aygun stated that everybody should keep in mind that the terrorism occurs regardless of religion, race, and sex.

Aygun emphasized that they hope that Italian government will have a common sense about this issue and requested the help of the Rome Chamber of Commerce to prevent any negative developments which can negatively affect the Turkish and Italian relations.

[25] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''ITALY ACTS TOO TOLERANT FOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION, IT EVEN SHOW A SUPPORTIVE ATTITUTE''

Upon a question regarding the terrorist attack by the PKK supporters against Turkey's bureau in Rome, Ecevit said Turkey already warned the foreign countries about this issue. ''The terrorists might have been encouraged by Italy's tolerant approach and done this. But they ended their protest quickly and none of the Turkish personnel was hurt,'' the Prime Minister explained.

Ecevit said it was very degrading for Italian nation to support the terrorist organization.

About his meeting with the Uzbekistan Ambassador, the Prime Minister said some negative developments between Turkey and Uzbekistan were a result of some misunderstandings. ''We care a lot for our relations with Uzbekistan. Anyone who would damage Uzbekistan or its internal policy should not expect any help from Turkey. I told my views to the Uzbeki Ambassador and asked him to convey them to the Uzbeki President. I am confident that we will overcome this small crisis and our relations will recover, '' Ecevit told reporters.

[26] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, VISITS AKBULUT, PARLIAMENT SPEAKER

Constantinescu decorated Akbulut with the highest medal of Romania during the visit.

Akbulut said that Turkey and Romania have good relations and that these relations improve by the visits of the officials of these two countries.

Emphasizing that Turkey accepts a pluralist democracy which is respectful to the human rights, Akbulut noted that Turkey will enhance regional peace and stability as long as she impoves this democracy.

[27] FOREIGN MINISTRY LAUNCHES INITIATIVES AGAINST ITALIAN EMBASSY IN ANKARA FOR OCCUPATION OF TURKISH EMBASSY COMMERCIAL OFFICE IN ROME BY SUPPORTERS OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION

The officials of the Foreign Ministry told A.A correspondent that a Foreign Ministry official talked with Daniele Verga, the Italian Charges d'Affairs, on the phone and condemned the occupation of the Turkish Embassy commercial office.

The ministry official urgad Italy to take the necessary measures to prevent such demonstrations and that the assailants should be punished.

Turkish Embassy in Rome earlier launched a protest note to the Italian Foreign Ministry condemning the release of the Italian demonstrators who were the supporters of the terrorist organization.

[28] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, IN ANKARA - FIVE DOCUMENTS SIGNED BETWEEN TURKISH AND ROMANIAN DELEGATIONS

Addressing a statement after the meetings with Emil Contantinescu, the Romanian President, President Suleyman Demirel said that the cooperation and solidarity between Turkey and Romania will constitute an example for the other countries in the region and that Turkey will be in cooperation with Romania in any step which will enhance the peace in the Balkans.

Emphasizing that they discussed the bilateral relations and the regional and international issues during their visit, Demirel noted that the cooperation between the two countries serve for the security and the stability of the region and the welfare of the two countries.

Demirel stated that the trading volume between the two countries reached one million U.S. dollars and that 4,000 Turkish enterpreneurs are working in Romania.

Recalling that the Turkish-Romanian Joint Economic Commission convened between July 5 and 6, 1999 in Ankara, Demirel stressed that the co- presidents of the Joint Economic Commission gave them information about their contacts.

Pointing out that they discussed the peace and stability problems of the Balkans, Demirel said that Romania's support to NATO for Kosovo issue was appreciated.

Responding a question about the re-structuring of the Balkans, Demirel said that the Balkans need a new cooperation to maintain the peace and that it is not possible to separate the Balkans from Europe.

Demirel said, ''Turkey will support all the efforts which will enhance peace in the Balkans. We will have cooperation with Romania in any initiative to enhance peace in the Balkans.''

Constantinescu said that the military cooperation between Turkey and Romania is very important and that Romania can have cooperation with Turkey in the re-structuring process of the Balkans; adding that within this framework, they can carry out efforts in infrastructure, energy, and transportation issues in the Balkans.

Meanwhile, the Turkish and Romanian delegations signed ''Agreement on Consulates'', ''Agreement on Cooperation in Science and Technology'', ''Agreement on Social Security', ''Protocol on Joint Cooperation Between the Labour and Social Security Ministry and the Romanian Social Protection Security'' and the ''Protocol on the Turkish-Romanian Joint Economic Commission Meeting.''

[29] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, RECEIVES PREMIER ECEVIT

Constantinescu decorated Ecevit with the Romanian ''Great Cross'' medal.

Ecevit said that being decorated with this medal is an honour for himself, and that he attributes importance to the relations between Turkey and Romania.

Emphasizing that the relations between Turkey and Romania gained momentum in recent years, Ecevit noted that Romania and Turkey became a guarantee of peace in the southeastern Europe.

Ecevit stated that he hopes that the Kosovo dispute can be solved in peaceful means by the contribution of the two countries.

Drawing the attention that there are developments in the economic, political and cultural relations of the two countries, Ecevit stressed that there are 5,600 Turkish companies and 15,000 Turkish enterpreneurs in Romania.

Ecevit emphasized that Turkey expects initiatives of Romania in realizing joint investments in Turkey.

[30] STATE MINISTER UNLU IN THE TRNC

Stressing that the biggest problem is the sports embargo imposed on the TRNC, Unlu said that their struggle to lift this embargo is continuing in the international platform.

Describing the embargo as an inhuman and illegal implementation, Unlu pointed out that all international sports organizations should take action to lift the embargo.

Tansel Doratli, the TRNC Youth and Sports Minister, thanked Turkey for her sensibility over the issue.

Recalling that they launched initiatives in the Council of Europe (COE) for the embargo to be lifted, Doratli added that their request will be taken up in coming months in spite of Greek Cypriot and Greek retaliations.

[31] ROMANIAN PRESIDENT CONSTANTINESCU IN ANKARA - CONSTANTINESCU EVALUATES RELATIONS BETWEEN TURKEY AND ROMANIA: - ''THERE IS NO PROBLEM IN OUR RELATIONS''

Addressing a conference organized by the Foreign Policy Institute, Mr. Constantinescu evaluated the relations between the two countries.

Mr. Constantinescu emphasized that there are perfect relations between Turkey and Romania in the fields of policy, diplomacy, economy and culture.

Pointing out that there are similarities between the two countries' geopolitical positions, Mr. Constantinescu recalled that Turkey forms a bridge among the Caspian Sea, Central Asia, Caucasia, Middle East and the Mediterranean region.

Pointing out that Romania has also a similar position in the southeastern Europe, Black Sea region and the Central Europe, Mr. Constantinescu stressed that all these regions need cooperation and stability.

Recalling that Turkey has always expanded support for Romania's membership to the NATO, Mr. Constantinescu pointed out that his country defends Turkey's full membership to the European Union (EU). Referring to the Kosovo crisis, Mr. Constantinescu emphasized that a lasting peace and stability in the region require a permanent economic development.

Stressing that an investment programme should be implemented in the region, Mr. Constantinescu noted that Turkey and Romania will play a great role within this framework.

Recalling that there are 5,600 Turkish-Romanian companies having a total of 200 million U.S. dollars of investment capital, Mr. Constantinescu said that the Turkish businessmen in Romania have understood Romania's facts in the best way.

Mr. Constantinescu noted that Romanian companies are interested in energy and infrastructure projects in Turkey.

Describing Turkey as a experience source for Romanian businessmen in the field of economy, Mr. Constantinescu pointed out that Turkey has followed a courageous policy to become liberal within the last 15 years.

[32] SUPPORTERS OF TERRORIST ORGANIZATION OCCUPY TURKISH EMBASSY COMMERCIAL OFFICE IN ROME - PRESIDENT DEMIREL CONDEMNS THE INCIDENT: - ''THOSE WHO SUPPORT TERRORISM, COMMIT CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY''

The Presidential Press Center quoted President Demirel as saying,

''I am condemning the occupation of the Turkish Embassy Commercial Office in Rome. This incident means supporting the terrorism in Turkey. It also means supporting bloodshed of many innocent people every day. Those who support terrorism commit crimes against humanity.''

[33] PRESIDENT DEMIREL MEETS WITH HIS KAZAKH COUNTERPART NAZARBAYEV IN ANTALYA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: - ''RELATIONS BETWEEN TWO SISTER COUNTRIES WILL FURTHER IMPROVE'' - PRESIDENT NAZARBAYEV INVITES DEMIREL TO KAZAKHSTAN

Addressing the meeting, President Demirel said, ''There are good relations between Turkey and Kazakhstan, and these relations will continue to further improve in future.''

Demirel recalled that Kazakhstan has recorded significant developments under efficient leadership of President Nursultan Nazarbayev since she gained her independence.

Nursultan Nazarbayev stressed that they have set up friendly relations with Turkey, adding that they aim at further improving these relations.

Recalling that there are more than 320 Turkish companies in Kazakhstan, Mr. Nazarbayev said that the Turkish companies' business volume in Kazakhstan has reached to 776 million U.S. dollars.

Adding that this figure is higher than the Turkish companies' business volume in other countries, Mr. Nazarbayev emphasized that the Turkish businessmen played a great role in the construction of the new Kazakh capital.

Pointing out that the commercial relations between the two countries continue to improve in the fields of telecommunication, transportation and construction, Mr. Nazarbayev recalled that there is also a strong cooperation between Turkey and Kazakhstan in education and culture.

Noting that there are many Turkish-Kazakh high schools and universities in different parts of Kazakhstan, Mr. Nazarbayev reminded that nearly one thousand Kazakh student and 100 Kazakh officers continue their education in Turkey.

Stressing that the future of relations between the two countries is brilliant, Mr. Nazarbayev conveyed Kazakh people's thanks to President Demirel who played a great role in improvement of these relations.

Mr. Nazarbayev invited President Demirel to Kazakhstan, and also thanked Turkey for her support and assistance for Kazakh people.

Kazakh Prime Minister Nurlan Balgimbayev was also in attendance at the meeting.

[34] ROMANIAN PRESIDENT CONSTANTINESCU IN ANKARA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL DECORATES HIS ROMANIAN COUNTERPART WITH STATE MEDAL

Addressing the ceremony, President Demirel stressed that there are historical ties between Turkish and Romanian people which were based on mutual appreciation and respect.

President Demirel underlined, ''Strong cooperation between our countries also serves for the peace, stability, joint prosperity and development of our region.''

Pointing out that there are perfect friendship and neighbourhood relations between Turkey and Romania, President Demirel emphasized that Mr. Constantinescu has made a considerable contribution to the improvement of this friendship.

Meanwhile, Mr. Constantinescu stressed that this medal is the symbol of the friendship between the Turkish and Romanian nations.

Describing President Demirel as a great statesman and an extraordinary person, Mr. Constantinescu decorated President Demirel with the highest medal of his country which is being given to friends of Romania.

President Demirel said that being decorated with this medal is an honour for himself, and stressed that the medal is a sign of perfect relations between the two countries.

Stressing that the two countries have set up a perfect cooperation, President Demirel expressed trust in future of the relations.

Yildirim Akbulut, Speaker of Parliament; Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit; General Huseyin Kivrikoglu, Chief of General Staff; Necdet Sezer, Chairman of Constitutional Court; Devlet Bahceli, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State; Sukru Sina Gurel and Hasan Gemici,

State Ministers; Ismail Cem, Foreign Minister; Cumhur Ersumer, Energy and Natural Sources Minister; Yasar Okuyan, Labour and Social Security Minister; and a number of guests were in attendance at the ceremony.

[35] PRESIDENT DEMIREL HOSTS A DINNER IN HONOUR OF HIS ROMANIAN COUNTERPART CONSTANTINESCU - DEMIREL: - ''HOSTILE POLICIES INCITED BY ETHNIC NATIONALISM CAUSED ANOTHER HUMANITARIAN TRAGEDY IN OUR REGION''

Addressing the dinner, President Demirel recalled that he had paid an official visit to Romania three months ago to attend the third summit among the leaders of Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania.

Stressing that they are determined to further improve friendship relations between Turkey and Romania, President Demirel noted, ''Mutual high-level visits between the two countries make significant contributions to our joint future. Both countries aim at continuing further improvement of relations within peace, stability and prosperity of our region.''

Pointing out that Mr. Constantinescu's visit coincided with the important developments in the region, Demirel noted, ''inhuman ethnic cleansing campaign in Kosovo could only be ended by the NATO's determined attitude. Hostile policies incited by ethnic nationalism caused another humanitarian tragedy in our region.''

Expressing deep sorrow over the carnage in Kosovo, President Demirel added, ''Our region had suffered from ethnic conflicts during the 19th and 20th centuries. We should not carry these pains into the 21st century. We must establish lasting peace and stability in the region on the bases of democracy and superiority of law. Now, it is time to provide Kosovor refugees' return to their homes before the winter, and to endeavour for the re-construction of southeastern Europe. Unification of overall regional countries has a vital importance to this end. Turkey considers Romania as a reliable partner and a future ally for these targets. We will continue to support Romania's membership to the NATO.''

President Demirel continued, ''I want to stress that the Stability Pact which was recently accepted to re-constructure the region, and to provide lasting stability in the Balkans, is a significant milestone.''

Emphasizing that humanity encounters with new threats and dangers in recent years, President Demirel named them as terrorism, organized crimes, pollution, drug and weapon smuggling.

Noting that no county can struggle against these threats on her own, President Demirel said, ''The agreement signed among Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria in Antalya last year, is a very important international document to this end. This document should be put into force as soon as possible. Turkey attributes great importance to the cooperation with Romania against such threats.''

Referring to the commercial relations with Romania, President Demirel recalled that the trade volume between the two countries is expected to reach one billion U.S. dollars within this year.

A.A

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