Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-08-23

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AA Daily

23 August 1999 Monday

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER IN TURKEY

[03] THREE U.S. SHIPS REACH CANAKKALE STRAIT - THE SHIPS WILL BE USED AS FLOATING HOSPITALS

[04] GERMANY'S WESER EMS RESCUE TEAM LEAVES FOR TURKEY WITH 8 SNIFFER DOGS

[05] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING - GOVERNMENT EVALUATES DAMAGE CAUSED BY EARTHQUAKE AND MEASURES AIMING AT SOLVING PROBLEMS OF CITIZENS

[06] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING

[07] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING ENDS

[08] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER: ''FINANCE MINISTRY'S EFFORTS TO DETERMINE APPROPRIATE TREASURY AREAS FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING HAVE BEEN RESULTED''

[09] TUPRAS EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT ALAKOC: ''SEVEN TANKS WERE COMPLETELY BURNT, TWO OF THEM WERE PARTLY DAMAGED''

[10] SUPPORT TO QUAKE VICTIMS FROM ASSOCIATION OF EUROPEAN JOURNALISTS

[11] BULGARIA TO SEND TWO TRUCKS CARRYING HUMANITARIAN AID

[12] TURKS IN RUSSIA LAUNCH AID CAMPAIGNS

[13] PLANES CARRYING FOREIGN COUNTRIES' AID CONTINUE TO ARRIVE IN TURKEY

[14] HUNGARIAN SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM RETURNS TO HUNGARY - BARANYA, CHIEF OF SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM: - ''I HAVE BEEN IN MANY EARTHQUAKE ZONES, BUT I HAVE NEVER WITNESSED SUCH A TRAGIC ONE''

[15] GULTEKIN, GENERAL DIRECTOR OF PETROLEUM OFFICE: ''THERE WON'T BE ANY SHORTAGE IN FUEL-OIL''

[16] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, IN EARTHQUAKE ZONE: - ''THERE IS A GRAVE DESTRUCTION HERE. IT IS HARD TO ESTIMATE RESULTS OF DISASTER''

[17] SYRIA'S AID TO TURKEY CONTINUES

[18] AUSTRALIA'S AID CONTRIBUTION INCREASES

[19] UZBEKISTAN SENDS FINANCIAL AID WORTH OF 200 THOUSAND U.S. DOLLARS, AND A SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM

[20] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, IN ANKARA

[21] STATEMENT OF NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL

[22] DENKTAS, PRESIDENT OF TRNC: ''WE WERE DEEPLY SHOCKED. HELP AND AID SHOULD CONTINUE''

[23] ENVIRONMENT MINITRY TO SEND 200 THOUSAND RAINCOATS TO REGION HIT BY EARTHQUAKE

[24] MACEDONIAN TURKS MOBILIZED FOR QUAKE VICTIMS

[25] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES NORWEGIAN FM VOLLEBAEK - DEMIREL: ''I WANT TO EXPRESS THE TURKISH GOVERNMENT'S AND THE NATION'S GRATITUDE OVER NORWAY'S EVERY KIND OF SUPPORT'' - VOLLEBAEK: ''I CONVEY THE KING OF NORWAY'S AND THE NORWEGIAN GOVERNMENT'S CONDOLENCES AND MOST SINCERE FEELINGS TO TURKISH PEOPLE''

[26] SHEVARDNADZE, PRESIDENT OF GEORGIA: ''THE EARTHQUAKE IN TURKEY WON'T AFFECT THE BAKU-CEYHAN PROJECT''

[27] EUROPEAN COMMISSION TO SEND 2 MILLION EURO HUMANITARIAN AID TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN MARMARA REGION

[28] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN PRIME MINISTER, IN ANKARA - FOREIGN MINISTER CEM: ''I THANK TO NORWAY FOR WHAT IT HAS DONE DUE TO THE QUAKE DISASTER''

[29] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, MEETS WITH PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT

[30] U.S. MARINES WHICH COME TO HELP VICTIMS OF QUAKE - GUREL, MINISTER OF STATE AND PARRIS, THE U.S. AMBASSADOR, STAGE NEWS CONFERENCE IN KEARSARGE, THE U.S. MARINE

[31] FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''NO DISCRIMINATION HAS BEEN MADE DUE TO THE SOURCE OF AID COMING FROM ABROAD''

[32] GUREL, MINISTER OF STATE: ''INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT AND UNDERSTANDING SHOWN TO US DUE TO OUR URGENT NEEDS IN THE FIRST STAGE OF THIS DISASTER, FORMED AN IMPORTANT GUARANTEE''

[33] U.N. SAYS THERE IS NOT DANGER OF EPIDEMICS

[34] AID CAMPAIGN OF ISRAEL BROADENS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL)

FIRST IMPORTANT DECISION
The state has taken the authority of the municipalities in seven provinces devastated by the earthquake. All kinds proceedings such as plannings, approvals, constructions, licence of changes will be carried out by the Ministry for five months in some parts of Istanbul and fully in Kocaeli, Sakarya, Tekirdag, Eskisehir, and Bolu.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

CITIES TO BE MOVED
The leaders of the coalition parties determined the measures that should be taken in the areas devastated by the earthquake: ''The collapsed cities will be re-constructed in centers which are far from the fault lines. Internal source will be provided by quake tax and additional tax which will be temporary.

SABAH (LIBERAL)

TWO MORE PEOPLE WERE PULLED OUT ALIVE 138 HOURS AFTER DISASTER
Two women at ages of 54 and 18 were pulled out alive in Yalova's Cinarcik county. Pascal Albert, head of the French rescue team who rescued Merve, a little girl of 12 years old said the ''moment when they heard voices coming under the ruins was the happiest moment of their lives''.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

DIFFICULT TIME IN ECONOMY
The effect of the earthquake on industry and the fire which continued for a long time in Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corp. (TUPRAS) will be an issue of debate for a long time. Some experts say that the fire in TUPRAS refinery in Izmit will also continue in the economy!

RADIKAL (LEFT)

RACIST OBSTACLE
The well-trained Armenian team composed of 20 persons which Armenia wanted to send to Turkey, was not taken into Turkey as they are Armenians. Although the Foreign Ministry permitted the Armenian team to come to Turkey, they were not accepted to Turkey. It is said that the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) impeded that.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

PRE-FABRIC BUILDINGS TO BE BUILT FOR QUAKE VICTIMS
Ministers Council discussed the temporary housing problem of quake victims. Tunca Toskay, the State Minister and Government Spokesman said the tent city in the disaster area was almost completed. Toskay said pre-fabric buildings would be built to provide housing to quake victims. Those who lost their homes in the quake will also be be hosted at camps and touristic facilities.

Regarding the financial cost of Tupras fire, Toskay claimed that Tupras did not suffer massive damage and said 150 million U.S. dollar of the total damage of 200 million U.S. dollars will be met by the insurance. The state minister also added that there would be no fuel shortage because of the fire.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

LEGAL WAR STARTS
People who lost their relatives and suffered financial damage in the quake are suing contractors and municipalities who gave them permits to build buildings. Justice Minister Hikmet Sami Turk called Judges and Prosecutors Higher Council for a meeting on Monday to discuss potential legal problems that might arise in Marmara region and its answers. A total of 40 quake victims who were residents of Acvilar Arslan Apartments in Istanbul applied to Kazmaz Legal Bureau which gives free counseling service and asked that those who are responsible for the lost lives must be sued.

[02] NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER IN TURKEY

Vollebaek visited the Norwegian rescue team who came to Istanbul to depart for Norway after wrapping up their search and rescue operations in the areas hit by the quake.

Later, the guest foreign minister met with Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister.

Responding to questions of Norwegian journalists, Cem said that Norway, like other countries, has mobilized all of its opportunities to help Turkey after the earthquake disaster in Turkey, adding his meeting with Vollebaek had been earlier planned.

''All search and rescue teams particularly in European countries rushed into Turkey due to the quake disaster. Now, they are working with their equipment and trained dogs. We have always been in solidarity with the whole world. Today the whole world has come to help Turkey,'' Cem said.

Later, Sadi Calıslar, the Ambassador gave a briefing to Vollebaek and Cem about the preparations of the OSCE Summit that will be held between 18-19 November, 1999 in Turkey.

Vollebaek will proceed to the quake region on Monday and visit the field hospital which was founded by Norway in Derince.

The guest minister will leave Turkey after wrapping up his contacts in Ankara.

[03] THREE U.S. SHIPS REACH CANAKKALE STRAIT - THE SHIPS WILL BE USED AS FLOATING HOSPITALS

Kearsarge, one of the three ships sent to Izmit Gulf entered the strait from Aegean sea at 7.10 p.m. on Sunday. The ship came to Canakkale about 8 p.m. and will sail out in Marmara Sea on Monday night.

The other two ships Gunston Hall and Ponce will also pass from Canakkale Strait on Monday night.

The ships which carry about 100 medical personnel, 22 helicopters, 6 surgery rooms, 5 x-ray chambers, and 631 beds will be used as floating hospitals.

More than 2000 sailors in the ships will also work to remove the ruins in the disaster area.

[04] GERMANY'S WESER EMS RESCUE TEAM LEAVES FOR TURKEY WITH 8 SNIFFER DOGS

Rolan Schroth, the spokesman of the team said that ''recently, we had rescued people trapped under debris after 12 days following the earthquake in Italy. Even if we can rescue one person in Turkey, we will do our mission.''

Scroth added that the dogs are well trained particularly in finding dead bodies under wreckage and they will stay in Turkey as long as they are needed.

[05] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING - GOVERNMENT EVALUATES DAMAGE CAUSED BY EARTHQUAKE AND MEASURES AIMING AT SOLVING PROBLEMS OF CITIZENS

Addressing a statement after the meeting, Tunca Toskay, the State Minister and Government Spokesman said that the founding of tent-cities in the region devastated by the quake is about to finish.

The cabinet took up the efforts that will be launched to find temporary housing for earthquake victims. In this framework, settlement of quake victims in camps and touristic installations of public institutions including construction of prefabricated houses are foreseen.

The cabinet also took up the issue of providing internal and external financial sources.

Toskay stated that 61 countries and 6 international institutions offered to help Turkey and this will be evaluated by the government in detail.

Toskay pointed out that serious measures were taken by the initiative of the Ministry of Interior to put into order the aids sent to the region, adding the aid will be collected in the Directorate General of Disaster Affairs and they will be used in accordance with the goal.

Noting that there is no sign of epidemics in the quake region and no place was put in quarantine, Toskay pointed out that at least 150 million dollars part of 200 million dollars of the damage caused by the fire that erupted in Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corp. (TUPRAS) refinery in Izmit will be met by insurance and lack of fuel oil is out of question.

Toskay added that the authority of municipalities regarding public works has been temporary transfered to the Ministry of Public Works and Settlement.

[06] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING

The Council of Ministers, following a four-hour meeting, discussed the developments and measures that need to be taken regarding the quake disaster.

Tunca Toskay, the State Minister and Government Spokesman told reporters that ministers presented detailed information in their own field in the meeting.

Construction of tent cities continues and considering the change of season the quake victims will need temporary housing, Toskay stated. ''The quake victims will be offered the most appropriate alternatives such as pre-fab buildings, public camps, and hotels,'' he said.

The next stage of activities will focus on the compensation of material damage suffered by people and the government will help the quake victims live normal lives, Toskay explained.

The ministers reviewed the internal and foreign resources that are necessary for all these activities. Turkey, so far, received offers of financial aid from 61 states and 6 international institutions.

''We must state with gratitute that the great Turkish nation has been displaying a very high performance of integrity and solidarity. We are very grateful to our people. People's help continue intensely reducing the government's burden significantly,'' he said.

''However these aids should be sent in a discipline and by the supervision of the Ministry of Interior. The Ministry of Interior and crisis committees have taken serious measures to regulate the flow of aids in kind,'' said Toskay.

Toskay said that citizens also make aids in cash by the campaigns opened to help earthquak victims.

Noting that Osman Durmus, the Minister of Health informed the Council of Ministers about his observations in the region hit by the quake, Toskay said that ''there are no case of epidemics in the region, quarantine is also out of question. All kinds of measures have been taken to prevent the danger of illness and disinfection also continues. The capacity of transportation, which was seriously damaged has returned to its normal condition. Communication is easily provided with the regions.''

Toskay pointed out that efforts are underway to provide temporary housing in the areas hit by the earthquake, adding Nami Cagan, the Minister of Forestry determined the places in or out of forests which can be opened for settlement for a temporary period of time and informed the Ministry of Public Works and Settlement about it.

Stressing that operations are underway in the region to determine the temporary damage caused by the quake, adding operations to determine the definite damage will start soon.

Recalling that prisons have been evacuated in Adapazarı and Yalova, Toskay said that Sebahattin Cakmakoglu, the National Defense Minister informed the cabinet about the rescue operations of the Turkish Armed Forces at the meeting.

''Some incorrect information and expressions are covered by media about the existing situation in TUPRAS. The damage in TUPRAS won't exceed 200 million dollars including the slowing down of the production for one year. The cost of TUPRAS as a loss for us will be limited with 50-60 million dollars. These are definite numbers,'' said Toskay, adding electrictiy is provided to all factories and business places that request it and there is no problem of supply in oil and oil products.

''Our stocks are enough, moreover permission is granted to fuel oil firms to undertake additional import in oil and oil products. Besides the capacities of our refineries except Tupras have been increased to their maximum levels,'' said Toskay, adding the change of the law regarding civilian defense units will be prepared as soon as possible.

[07] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING ENDS

When asked what subjects will be covered by decrees having the force of law, Toskay told a reporter that ''it would cover every issue which the government regards as a need to make legal regulations about.''

''We are continiously reviewing internal and foreign resources to provide financement. We will discuss that issue within the same frame,'' Toskay said when asked if the government would collect a special tax from people only for once.

Toskay denied the claims about rejecting some of the foreign aid. ''We have no problems in customs regulations when the aid is submitted directly to the government to be used in disaster areas.

But when the foreign teams want to make their donations to a specific institution, then the regular customs regulations are applied to it,'' he explained.

[08] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER: ''FINANCE MINISTRY'S EFFORTS TO DETERMINE APPROPRIATE TREASURY AREAS FOR TEMPORARY HOUSING HAVE BEEN RESULTED''

The Crisis Management Center also gave information about the aids sent to the disaster region and the efforts that are carried out there.

The statement noted that the Ministry of National Education transferred 13, 000 martyr bags to the crisis centre, adding ''the Red Crescent sent 21,554 tents, 56,150 blankets, 26 mobile kitchens, four mobile hospitals and food to the region hit by the quake. Food is being given to people in Avcılar district of Istanbul. The Ministry of Public Works and Settlement sent 180 billion liras of emergency aid, 191 work machines, two ambulances, nine rescue teams and 350 technical personnel will be sent to the region till Tuesday. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs transferred four mobile veterinary clinical teams, 14 medical personnel, one ambulance and 3250 kilograms of disinfection to the region. The Ministry of Industry and Trade sent 23 transceivers, 400 tents, 2500 masks, 14 mobile toilets to Sakarya and two mobile toilets to Kocaeli and 37 work machines and 67 medical and technical teams to the region. The forest fire in Kaytazdere hamlet of Karamursel has been completely extinguished.''

The statement added that ''all main telephone stations are active in the region which were devastated by the quake and intercentral main communication systems re-started to function. The chemical leakage in Aksa factory in Yalova was prevented and environmental risk was removed and efforts to accumulate the oil products that leaked to the sea during the fire in TUPRAS refinery are also underway. 3805 empty beds have been allocated for the earthquake victims and 44 ambulances are waiting to leave for the region in the hospitals outside the devastated area. Besides the 30 tonnes of water tankers demanded by the Social Security Authority (SSK) hospitals have been sent to Kocaeli by Samsun Governorship.''

The Prime Ministry Crisis Management Centre listed the names of 60 countries and 6 international institutions which sent aid to Turkey as follows:

''Sweden, the U.S., Britain, Israel, Australia, Belgium, New Zealand, Greece, Canada, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Germany, Ireland, Spain, France, Bulgaria, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Russia, Denmark, Norway, Japan, Azerbaijan, Algeria, Portugal, Ukraine, Romania, Georgia, Turkmenistan, Egypt, Mexico, Morocco, Bangladesh, Crotia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tunisia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Hungary, Poland, Korea, Finland, Moldova, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Bahrain, Chili, Malaysia, China, Sweden, Cuba, Iceland, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, Syria, the European Union (EU), World Bank, UN Higher Commission for Refugees, UN Representation in Turkey, UN Children's Education Fund (UNICEF) and Union of Islamic World.''

Today will be partially cloudy and rainy in the disaster region. It will again be rainy in the coming week and the tempature will decrease.

[09] TUPRAS EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT ALAKOC: ''SEVEN TANKS WERE COMPLETELY BURNT, TWO OF THEM WERE PARTLY DAMAGED''

''We received pre-information about the damage but we will wait until we get clearer figures not to mislead people,'' Alakoc said.

''Tank number 242 was allowed to burn under control two days ago. German, Bulgarian, Azerbaijani and our own teams managed to put it out completely the next day at 9.30a.m. As we warned earlier, it is possible that some tanks might restart burning partially. The residue left on the bottom of one of the tanks caught fire and it looked more dramatic because of the great amount of steam. There is no reason to panic. Our teams were able to put it out in 20 minutes,'' he explained.

Alakoc noted that there was no risk of fire in the refinery but they still were acting cautious and taking precautions.

When asked if negligence played part in spreading of the fire, Alakoc stressed that the fire started not under normal circumstances but during a quake disaster.

''It happened under the circumstances of a disaster. At the same time, the refinery's 95 meter long chimney which has a diameter of 24 meters collapsed. Our friends were trying to put out the fire which started after the chimney collapsed on the furnace. Two more tanks full of naphta and the storage room started burning at the same time. The power supply of the whole refinery was down and the pumps were not working. With my experience in Turkey and abroad, I personally cannot understant how our friends managed to extinguish this fire and take it under control,'' he stated.

''Nothing was working. This refinery's electricity is not like a building's. It uses more electricity than a city. These are huge centrals and these are serious works, do not confuse them with a small facility,'' Alakoc responded when a reporter asked if Tupras had generators.

In the meantime, Yuksel Yalova, the State Minister made observations at Tupras.

[10] SUPPORT TO QUAKE VICTIMS FROM ASSOCIATION OF EUROPEAN JOURNALISTS

Dogan Tilic, the AEJ International Executive Board member said AEJ which has 2500 members from 25 countries called all of its branches and called on its members to be sensitive about the quake disaster in Turkey. AEJ asked journalists to encourage their publics to help with the Turkish nation.

AEJ demanded financial aid from its members and announced that the donations which will be collected in Germany between September 10 and 15 will be sent to quake victims through its Turkish members.

[11] BULGARIA TO SEND TWO TRUCKS CARRYING HUMANITARIAN AID

The Bulgarian Embassy in Ankara made a statement giving the inventory about Bulgaria's aid to Turkey, and adding that two trucks carrying humanitarian aid are expected to arrive in Istanbul on Tuesday.

The aid sent to to Turkey by Bulgaria according to the Bulgarian Embassy statement is as follows:

''-A nine-member rescue team with four sniffer dogs started to work in Adapazari as of August 18.

-Nine fire-extinguishers with 33 personnel were in Turkey between August 18 and 22 to put out the fire at the TUPRAS refinery.

-Two health teams including 13 doctors started to give service in Izmit region as of August 19.

-Bulgarian Civilian Defense Department's five civilian defense teams including 42 crew, 15 vehicles, 3 generators came to Turkey on August 20 and started to work in Yalova.

-Another five teams, including 45 crew and 15 vehicles who arrived in Turkey on August 21 started to work in Adapazari August 21.

-Another eight-member rescue team who came to Turkey on August 20 started to work in Yalova together with their Austrian counterparts.''

[12] TURKS IN RUSSIA LAUNCH AID CAMPAIGNS

The Turkish Embassy in Moscow, to this end, opened accounts at the branch offices of the Yapi Kredi Bank, Finansbank, Garanti Bank, and Ziraat Bank in Moscow.

The Union of the Turkish-Russian Businessmen who supported the campaign, issued a written statement titled ''Let's Come Together To Heal Wounds of Calamity'' and called the Turkish associations, companies, workers, and students to join the campaign.

[13] PLANES CARRYING FOREIGN COUNTRIES' AID CONTINUE TO ARRIVE IN TURKEY

The civilian and military planes, which are expected to arrive in Turkey today or in following days according to the Foreign Ministry statement are as follows:

Country Type of Plane Mission/Load

-------- ------------- ------------
U.S. C-5 Humanitarian aid

Canada Three AN124s Sahra hospital &amp; equipment

Italy IL76 Humanitarian aid

Bosnia Herzegovina C550 Medical aid

Pakistan Two B-707s Humanitarian aid

Syria Two IL-76s Humanitarian aid

Bahrein B-767 Humanitarian aid</PRE>

[14] HUNGARIAN SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM RETURNS TO HUNGARY - BARANYA, CHIEF OF SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM: - ''I HAVE BEEN IN MANY EARTHQUAKE ZONES, BUT I HAVE NEVER WITNESSED SUCH A TRAGIC ONE''

Addressing journalists at the airport, members of the Hungarian search and rescue team explained their impressions and experiences in the earthquake zone.

Hungarian experts told reporters that their greatest happiness was Hatira Kaplan, a three-year-old girl who was pulled alive from rubbles, adding that they will launch inititaves to invite Hatira to Budapest next year.

Lieutenant Colonel Karly Baranya, Chief of Hungarian Search and Rescue Team, said, ''We had been sent to Avcilar district of Istanbul instead of Izmit which was the epicenter of the major earthquake, due to some organizational disorder. We could arrive in Izmit only on Wednesday. Therefore, we could only rescued Hatira in Avcilar. If we could arrive in Izmit directly, we would save at least 50 more people. Turkish officials thanked us for our assistance, and told us there was nothing to do any more.''

Recalling that they had been in many earthquake zones, Baranya stressed that they have never witnessed such a tragic disaster. Noting that the earthquake struck a huge area in Turkey, Baranya pointed out that they could not decide in which building to start search and rescue works. He added that their only consolation was Hatira, saying they cried along with survivors for more than 20 minutes.

When asked about the collapsed buildings, Baranya said, ''there were enough iron in the buildings, but connections were not made properly. On the other hand, insufficient cement was used in the constructions. Contractors used sea-sand instead of normal sand. I think that the main reason which causes the buildings to collapse, is the sea-sand.''

[15] GULTEKIN, GENERAL DIRECTOR OF PETROLEUM OFFICE: ''THERE WON'T BE ANY SHORTAGE IN FUEL-OIL''

The refineries of TUPRAS in Izmir and Kirikkale, and the private Atas Refinery in Mersin increased their production while the distribution companies are taking the necessary measures for the transfer of oil throughout the country.

Besides, the distribution companies were authorized to import 700 thousand tons of oil to supply the probable 350 thousand tons of product deficit.

Speaking to the A.A correspondent, Mehmet Gultekin, the General Director of the Petroleum Office Inc (POAS), said that the atmosphere of panic in the first days was diffused as the refineries in Izmir, Kirikkale and Mersin have been working with full-capacity, adding that they changed the transportation routes by taking into consideration several variations.

Noting that all of vessels in Haramidere and Marmara, which earlier carried oil from the Izmit Refinery, were all sent to the Izmir Aliaga Refinery, Gultekin said, ''besides, all of the vendors in the Anatolian side of Izmit and Istanbul will purchase product from the Kirikkale Refinery.''

Stressing that they will immediately overcome the possible local problems in the region, Gultekin said, ''of course, it would be wrong to say 'evertyhing is normal, there is not a problem' when the Izmit Refinery, which supplies 35 percent of total poduction, became out of work. However, I want to repeat that there won't be any fuel-oil shortage especially after the measures. We took every kind of measure.''

[16] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, IN EARTHQUAKE ZONE: - ''THERE IS A GRAVE DESTRUCTION HERE. IT IS HARD TO ESTIMATE RESULTS OF DISASTER''

Vollebaek visited the sahra hospital established by Norwegian team, and the Kocaeli Hospital.

Responding to questions of the A.A correspondent, Vollebaek said earthquake caused a grave destruction in the region, and added that it is hard to estiame results of the disaster because the earthquake caught people in their sleeps.

Noting that Norwegian search and rescue team is continuing its efforts to find new survivers under the mounds of rubble, Vollebaek pointed out that a Hercules freighter carrying humanitarian aid is on its way to Turkey.

Vollebaek told the A.A correspondent that Norway has sent aid worth of 2.5 million U.S. dollars so far, adding that they plan to donate tents and prefabricated houses for earthquake victims.

When asked about quake's possible effects on OSCE Summit which was scheduled to be held in Istanbul in November, Vollebaek noted that OSCE is a political organization, and does not deal with natural disasters to this end. Recalling that all OSCE members are in solidarity to assist Turkey to heal her wounds in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, Vollebaek pointed out that facilities where the Summit will take place, are in excellent condition, and the earthquake will not affect the summit, but it is up to Turkish government whether or not to host the summit.

[17] SYRIA'S AID TO TURKEY CONTINUES

The Syrian Embassy in Ankara issued a statement, and said that the second batch of Syria's aid is expected to be brought to Turkey the same day.

The statement said the first batch included 25 tons of antibiotics and analgesics, 25 tons of serum, 15 tons of baby food, ten thousand blankets and many tents.

The statement said that a health team including high-level experts led by Bedreddin Bashimam, the Director of the Syrian Health Ministry's Department of State of Emergency, also arrived in Turkey with the plane which carried the first batch aid.

The Syrian Embassy said two more planes carrying two doctors and humanitarian aid will come to Turkey within the framework of the second batch aid that is expected to be brought into Turkey the same day.

The Embassy said that upon the instructions of Hafez Al-Assad, the President of Syria, it was decided to send urgent aid to Turkey sufficing thousands of people.

[18] AUSTRALIA'S AID CONTRIBUTION INCREASES

The Australian government will send portable toilets, tents and potable water tanks to the disaster area.

Following the 1 million Australian dollars of financial aid, the Australian government, which held contacts with the Turkish authorities about the requirements, announced that it will send a further aid.

Alexander Downer, the Foreign Minister of Australia, said they purchased 30 water tanks, each of which can carry ten thousand litres of water, one thousand tents and 500 portable toilets from the European countries, and the aid will be brought into Turkey within 24 hours.

[19] UZBEKISTAN SENDS FINANCIAL AID WORTH OF 200 THOUSAND U.S. DOLLARS, AND A SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM

The aid includes generator, crane, various equipments, beds, tents, blankets, clothes, foodstuff, and medicine.

Bahadir Kasimov, Uzbek State of Emergency Minister, said that they will continue to send humanitarian aid for the earthquake victims.

Several diplomatic representatives, and Uzbek authorities paid visits to Umur Apaydin, Turkish Ambassador to Uzbekistan, and expressed deep sorrow over earthquake disaster in Turkey.

Meanwhile, reception party which was planned to be hosted on August 26 to mark the August 30 Triumph Day, was cancelled.

[20] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, IN ANKARA

Releasing a statement, the Human Rights Association (IHD) said that Vollebaek who pays an official visit to Turkey, came together with directors of the IHD, the Association of the Oppressed, and the Human Rihgts Foundation of Turkey (TIHF).

The statement noted that during the meeting, Husnu Ondul, the Director General of the IHD, referred to the last week's earthquake disaster which hit Marmara region, and called on international community to send more humanitarian aid to help Turkey to heal her wounds.

Meanwhile, Vollebaek who came to Turkey to receive information about preparation works for OSCE meeting which is planned to be held in Istanbul in November, continues his contacts in Turkey.

Vollebaek who will be received by President Suleyman Demirel, is scheduled to come together with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, and Ismail Cem, Foreign Minister, later today.

[21] STATEMENT OF NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL

Taking into consideration the damage to the Golcuk Shipyard, the Council agreed to transfer the Turkish Vessel Industry Shipyard in Pendik to the Naval Forces Commandership; and transfer the Taskizak Shipyard to an appropriate public organization, and decided to convey these proposal to the Council of Ministers.

The NSC Secretariat General issued a statment about the agenda of the NSC meeting.

The statement said the NSC held its monthly regular meeting at the Presidential Palace under the chairmanship of President Suleyman Demirel and with the attendance of the Prime Minister, the Council member ministers, the chief commanders of military forces, the Chief Commander of Gendarmerie and the NSC Secretary General.

Noting that also Devlet Bahceli and Husamettin Ozkan, the Ministers of State and the Deputy Prime Ministers; Cumhur Ersumer, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, participated in the meeting, the NSC offered its condolences to the Turkish nation upon the earthquake happened on August 17.

Stressing that the efforts, works, and activities carried out following the quake, the measures which have been taken up until now, and the measures which have to be taken in short, medium, and long term, were reviewed at today's meeting, the statement said, ''the importance and necessity of the rapid and effective use of local and foreign aid, and the cooperation of the state and the nation with all their facilities to normalize the life by removing the destruction and damage caused by the calamity which deeply harmed every individual of our nation, have been taken up at the meeting.''

''The appreciation and thanks of the Council have been conveyed to the Armed Forces which have been expending great efforts to rescue the victims, all public organizations and institutions, private companies, voluntary organizations and people, and all citizens, and foreign people for their generous help and aid to the disaster area.

With this respect, the Council has implored God's mercy and grace to our citizens who died in the earthquake, expressed condolences and implored God's strength to all who are grieving and wished speedy recovery to the injured,'' the statement said.

''The Council has also expressed its gratitude to all foreign countries which rushed to Turkey to help the Turkish nation and shared the grief and mobilized their rescue and health teams,'' the statement added.

[22] DENKTAS, PRESIDENT OF TRNC: ''WE WERE DEEPLY SHOCKED. HELP AND AID SHOULD CONTINUE''

The earthquake in Turkey and the TRNC's aid were discussed at today's weekly regular meeting of TRNC President Rauf Denktas, TRNC Prime Minister Dervis Eroglu and TRNC Deputy Prime Minister Mustafa Akinci. Gulsen Bozkurt, the Minister of Health of TRNC; and Ilker Argen, the Director the TRNC Health Ministry, attended the meeting and gave information about the donation campaigns.

Noting that all of the citizens living in the country and abroad should give every kind of support to the campaign, Denktas said a new 1 billion Turkish Liras of donation was allocated from the Presidential budget for the purchase of baby food.

Denktas announced that he will make donations on behalf of every couple which will be married, instead of sending flowers to the wedding ceremonies for which he receives invitation.

Noting that he will continue this at least for six months, Denktas said, ''I think this will please the couples who send invitation letters. I will also send certificates to these couples to mention their donations. Flowers will be forgotten a day after but contribution to the efforts to build a new house will please people in their whole life.''

Pointing out that they are grieved as they couldn't help more, Denktas said, ''I wish we had more opportunities. We are doing our best under these conditions and we have to continue to do so. Our citizens living abroad should make contributions. This is a calamity. The wound is much more bigger than the one reflected by the televisions.''

Ilker Argen said they launched another campaign to supply baby food, napkins, pads, and disinfectants.

Noting that they receive a great support from the private pharmacy stores and shopping centers, Ergen said the new aid package will be sent to Istanbul late on the same day.

[23] ENVIRONMENT MINITRY TO SEND 200 THOUSAND RAINCOATS TO REGION HIT BY EARTHQUAKE

Releasing a statement, the Environment Ministry said that three separate teams will be dispatched to area to determine the proper regions for collecting, and destroying rubbish.

Meanwhile, a total of 200 thousand raincoats will also be sent to the earthquake zone.

The Ministry has sent disinfection machines, 4 dumper trucks, one ambulance and 38 thousand gloves along with thousands of rubbish bags.

Meanwhile, measures held in Kocaeli province showed that the pollution level in the province is lower than the limits of air pollution.

[24] MACEDONIAN TURKS MOBILIZED FOR QUAKE VICTIMS

A blood donation campain started at the Skopje Prosperity Turkish School while it was mentioned that the blood taken during the joint blood donation campaign of the Macedonian Turkish Women Association and the Red Cross will be sent to Turkey through the Turkish Embassy in Skopje.

The Macedonian Democracy Turkish Party's Headquarters in Skopje continues its money donation campaign at the Skopje bazaar. The donation will be sent to victims through the Ziraat Bank's branch office in Skopje.

The Macedonian Turkish Youth Union started a campaign and similar money donation campaigns were launced at mosques.

The Macedonian El Hilal aid organization's aid campaign to send tents, blankets, and medical equipment to Turkey continues.

The Macedonian Turkish organizations are continuously calling all people to contribute to campaigns through the mass media organizations bradcasting in Turkish language stressing that the motherland Turkey now needs help.

[25] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES NORWEGIAN FM VOLLEBAEK - DEMIREL: ''I WANT TO EXPRESS THE TURKISH GOVERNMENT'S AND THE NATION'S GRATITUDE OVER NORWAY'S EVERY KIND OF SUPPORT'' - VOLLEBAEK: ''I CONVEY THE KING OF NORWAY'S AND THE NORWEGIAN GOVERNMENT'S CONDOLENCES AND MOST SINCERE FEELINGS TO TURKISH PEOPLE''

The President received the same day Knut Vollebaek, the Foreign Minister of Norway. Addressing the meeting, President Demirel said, ''I want to thank to the Norwegian government for their support. The continuing aid of Norway are absolutely helpful for us. The rescue teams, cargo plane, generators, and sahra hospital sent by the Norwegian government have been very helpful, thank you.''

The Norwegian Foreign Minister conveyed the condolences of the King of Norway and the Norwegian government to Turkey, expressing their grief and sorrow over the quake.

Noting that they can follow all the tragedy through the mass-media, Vollebaek said he was deeply affected as the earthquake hit a broad region.

Pointing out that the Norwegian sahra hospital can serve 200 people, the Norwegian Foreign Minister said the Norwegian government allocated a 2.5 million U.S. dollars aid package to Turkey, the Foreign Minister said they were ready to give every kind of support to the temporary residences and schools.

Pointing out that as the Term President of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), he will request the Permanent Council to meet all the costs of the Istanbul summit by the OSCE, Vollebaek said, ''thus, you'll be able to spend the money to heal the wounds of the quake instead of spending it on the summit.''

President Suleyman Demirel said that the earthquake affected a 450 km of area, and there is a need for building some hundred thousands of houses.

[26] SHEVARDNADZE, PRESIDENT OF GEORGIA: ''THE EARTHQUAKE IN TURKEY WON'T AFFECT THE BAKU-CEYHAN PROJECT''

Staging a press conference, Shevardnadze stressed that there is not an alternative to Baku-Ceyhan project which will definetely be implemented.

Noting that President Suleyman Demirel, and Azerbaijani President Haydar Aliyev and he will convene in Turkey in September 1999, Shevardnadze said they will discuss the problems about the project and the construction of the pipeline.

Shevardnadze emphasized that they will take into consideration Turkey's interests about the construction of the pieline.

The Georgian President said Georgia will send every kind of support, expressing his deep sorrow over the earthquake in Turkey.

[27] EUROPEAN COMMISSION TO SEND 2 MILLION EURO HUMANITARIAN AID TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN MARMARA REGION

Burcu Kurcan, the Coordinator of the European Union (EU) Information Bureau which was set up within the structure of the Association of Aegean Industrialists and Businessmen, said the European Commission aid worth almost 930 billion Turkish Liras (TL) will be directed by the European Community Humanitarian Aid Organization (ECHO).

The European Commission aid, which will be extended in addition to the bilateral-level aid sent by the EU member states, will be used in providing urgent aid equipment to the worst affected areas.

The Red Crescent, and the Red Cross will cooperate in bringing the aid into the areas. Following the arrival of the first-aid teams in the region, sources will be transferred to other non-governmental organizations under the light of developments.

ECHO, which is closely following the situation in the quake zone, can meet other aid demands.

The European Commission sent a 500 thousand European Currency Unit (ECU) humanitarian aid to Adana after the earthquake in 1998, a 250 thousand ECU humanitarian aid to Dinar after the quake the same year, and a 500 thousand ECU humanitarian aid to Erzincan after the earthquake in 1992.

Meanwhile, Manual Marin, the Acting Chairman of the European Commission, sent a letter to President Suleyman Demirel; and Hans Van Den Broek, the member of the European Commission, sent a letter to Foreign Minister Ismail Cem, expressing their condolences, and sorrow over the devastating earthquake and tragedy.

[28] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN PRIME MINISTER, IN ANKARA - FOREIGN MINISTER CEM: ''I THANK TO NORWAY FOR WHAT IT HAS DONE DUE TO THE QUAKE DISASTER''

Cem, speaking before the interdelegational talks, expressed pleasure over seeing the guest minister and the accompanying delegation in Turkey and noted that they discussed many issues concerning the two countries during their meetings.

Cem said he thanked to his Norwegian counterpart due to the aid Norway has sent to Turkey because of the quake disaster which struck Turkey.

Pointing out that Turkey and Norway were two close countries despite the difference in their cultural structures, Cem recalled that these two countries are members of NATO but not members of the European Union (EU).

Cem said Turkish-Norwegian economic relations recorded a development as years pass, adding that the number of tourists coming from Norway to Turkey has an important rate. Cem also said they targetted improving bilateral relations in every field.

Cem said they would also discuss issues like small and medium scale dam constructions. Foreign Minister Cem also recalled that Vollebaek, as the term President of OSCE, held observations for the summit of the organization that will take place in Turkey in November.

When asked if the summit will be postponed due to the quake disaster, Cem said such a possibility was out of question and that the summit would not be postponed.

When asked if the aid provided by Greece following the quake disaster will add a new dimension to the bilateral relations, Cem said ''this issue has humanitarian dimensions. Many countries, including Greece, did their best to this end. We thank them.''

Vollebaek, Norwegian Foreign Minister, in his part expressed the deep sorrow his country felt over the quake disaster in Turkey, adding that his country will continue to send aid.

Pointing out that he observed the preparations launched for the OSCE summit that was foreseen to take place in Istanbul in November, Vollebaek said ''traditionnally, the host country finances the cost of the summits of the organization. Yet, I will propose the organization to meet the costs of this summit due to the quake disaster which struck Turkey. Thus, Turkey may be able to use the fund for the victims of the quake which it allocated for the summit.''

[29] VOLLEBAEK, NORWEGIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, MEETS WITH PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT

Responding to the questions of reporters following his meeting with Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, Vollabaek said he would propose the organization to pay the costs of Istanbul summit, so that Turkish government would be able to use the fund which was allocated for the summit, for the victims of the quake.

Noting that Istanbul summit would be an important one, Vollebaek said he observed preparations in Istanbul for the summit, adding that they were excellent.

Norwegian Foreign Minister pointed out that he held observations in the quake region, adding that the 2.5 million U.S. dollar aid package, which Norway allocated for the victims of the quake, will be used for sheltering needs in Izmit and for the construction of prefabricated houses.

[30] U.S. MARINES WHICH COME TO HELP VICTIMS OF QUAKE - GUREL, MINISTER OF STATE AND PARRIS, THE U.S. AMBASSADOR, STAGE NEWS CONFERENCE IN KEARSARGE, THE U.S. MARINE

Addressing the news conference Gurel said the U.S. support proved the solidarity and friendship between the peoples of Turkey and the U.S., adding that ''we are thankful for the support extended at the time of disaster.'' Gurel said ''friends are for hard days.''

Mark Parris, the U.S. Ambassador to Ankara, said Gunston Hall and Ponce ships arrived in Turkey together with Kearsarge and dropped anchor Izmit Bay, and recalled the statement of Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, which said they would do their best for Turkey.

Parris stressed that their primary target was to survive as many lives as they could, and noted that rescue teams coming from the U.S. continued their efforts.

U.S. Ambassador Mark Parris added: ''In recent days, the focus of relief work has shifted to meeting the longer term medical and health needs of the communities. That involves not only providing adequate long-term medical services, but things like water supply, sanitation, site clearing.''

Parris also said Turkish and the U.S. officials were in solidarity and support as of the first day of the disaster.

The U.S. Ambassador said the ships and the crew, at the first stage, will ferry the aid collected in Istanbul, to the disaster areas.

Currently, there are three ships, belonging to the 6th Fleet of the U.S., in Izmit bay to participate in rescue efforts following the quake which shook Marmara region.

There are 22 helicopters, 631 hospital beds, 6 surgery rooms, five x-ray rooms and 88 health officials. The total of personnel at the ships is 2100.

[31] FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''NO DISCRIMINATION HAS BEEN MADE DUE TO THE SOURCE OF AID COMING FROM ABROAD''

A statement of Foreign Ministry said many foreign countries extended aid to Turkey by sending rescue-research teams, health personnel, mobile hospitals and humanitarian aid equipment, adding that also many countries sent fire extinguisher teams and equipment to put out the fire in TUPRAS, Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corp.

The statement said Turkish nation is thankful for the aid of international community which still continues, and pointed out that rescue teams, doctors and health personnel that were sent to Turkey, added strength to the national efforts and that they were effective in survival of many lives and providing medicial treatment to the injured.

The statement stressed that these teams helped to overcome the first shock of the disaster and that Turkish nation will never forget these. The statement pointed out that the period of stay of these aid teams depended on the own evaluations of these teams and according to the needs and developments in the region.

Foreign Ministry statement expressed regret that news reports which appeared in several foreign press and broadcasting organizations related with these teams failed to reflect the realities and that they were based on groundless allegations. It said such misleading broadcastings should be avoided due to the graveness of the incident which Turkey has to face.

The statement said such broadcastings should be ended, and expressed hope that the aid of international organizations will continue according to the necessity lists which were submitted to them.

The statement also thanked to all the countries who extended help against this heavy natural disaster.

[32] GUREL, MINISTER OF STATE: ''INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT AND UNDERSTANDING SHOWN TO US DUE TO OUR URGENT NEEDS IN THE FIRST STAGE OF THIS DISASTER, FORMED AN IMPORTANT GUARANTEE''

Responding to a question Minister Gurel said several rescue teams decided to put an end to their efforts and returned to their countries. Gurel said ''we are grateful to countries and organizations who sent rescue teams and aid equipment to Turkey due to this grave disaster.''

Gurel said ''unfortunately, hopes for lives under the debris gradually fade. Yet, foreign experts teams which are currently in quake zone, will be able to continue their beneficial efforts as long as they want. Today, together with my friends, Suayip Usenmez and Edip Safter Gaydali, we welcomed the U.S. floating hospital and aid ships in the off shores of Golcuk. The U.S. and its people once again proved the importance of international solidarity against this disaster.''

Stressing that international support and understanding shown in the first stage of quake disaster due to the urgent needs formed an important guarantee, Gurel said need for tents, blankets, medical equipment and emergency aid still continues.

Gurel said ''we are also in need of portable toilets, orthopedic equipment, prefabricated houses and construction equipment. We announce it to our friends in international community.''

[33] U.N. SAYS THERE IS NOT DANGER OF EPIDEMICS

Pointing out that 70 percent of the houses in Izmit can not be used, the U.N. experts stressed that problem of sheltering gained priority.

Noting that 31,000 square kilometers were affected by the quake, the U.N. officials said the dead bodies will be removed after removal of living ones, yet added that searches for living ones will be made once more before the debris is shifted by Turkish officials.

World Health Organization (WHO) officials said rumours for cholera and typhoid fever did not reflect the truths.

Meanwhile, it was reported that the U.N. Office for Disaster Evaluation and Coordination teams visited the quake regions and continued to assess the needs. It said the U.N. has officials in seven regions which were affected by the quake.

United Nations Children's Education Fund (UNICEF), World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and World Food Program (WFP) participate in efforts carried out in Turkey.

The U.N. officials stressed that another priority was the sheltering of people who lost their houses in the quake, pointing out that efforts are under way to coordinate the activities in this field.

It was reported that the survivors will temporarily be sheltered in three passenger ships provided by a company.

The U.N. officials said international support was in satisfactory level, adding that a total of 35,000 people were treated in the quake region and that a field hospital has been set up.

[34] AID CAMPAIGN OF ISRAEL BROADENS

Turkey's Embassy in Israel said as a result of the campaign carried out under the coordination of Jews, who had immigrated from Turkey, approximately 100 tonnes of aid equipment was collected and much financial aid was donated to the bank accounts opened for aid.

A total of 50 tonnes of the aid equipment which was collected from the people were sent to Istanbul from Asdot Harbour. Turkish Turkon company took on transporting the aid equipment without taking any money.

Ayalet Frish, Spokesperson of Kibbutz Artzi, said they collected the aid according to the necessity lists which they took from Turkish officials.

Through the air bridge, which was set up to transport donations of Israeli businessmen, six planeloads of aid arrived in Turkey within two days.

Meanwhile, Israeli Press Office said Ehud Barak, Israeli Prime Minister, briefed in details about the aid extended to Turkey during the cabinet meeting on Sunday and noted that aid will continue.

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