Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-09-20

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AA Daily

20 Sept 1999 Monday

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS ADMINISTRATION CENTER SAYS TENT STOCKS REACH 109, 383

[03] GURTUNA, ISTANBUL MAYOR PARTICIPATES IN DINNER HOSTED BY AVRAMOPULOS, ATHENS MAYOR

[04] PARKS, CHIEF ECONOMIST OF WORLD BANK: ''REFORMS IN AGRICULTURE AND BANKING SECTORS WILL BE VERY IMPORTANT IN RESPECT OF TURKEY'S ECONOMY''

[05] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''A NEW CYPRUS PLAN IS OUT OF QUESTION''

[06] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES IBRAHIM BODUR, PRESIDENT OF KALE GROUP'S EXECUTIVE BOARD AND DOMINGO COLOMO, MANAGER OF SPANISH ROCHE GROUP

[07] TURKEY-NATURAL GAS

[08] PRESIDENT DEMIREL SPEAKS ON AZERBAIJANI TV CHANNEL: ''PIPELINE SHOULD BE CONSTRUCTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. AZERBAJANI RESOURCES SHOULD REACH WORLD MARKETS AND BE CONVERTED TO CASH''

[09] KDP LEADER BARZANI:''THE ONLY THING PKK DOES IS TO PLANT A MINE ON A CIVILIAN ROAD OR TRY TO BLOW UP A SCHOOL OR A MOSQUE''

[10] COUNCIL OF EUROPE:''OCALAN WAS TRIED IN ACCORDANCE WITH LAWS IN TURKEY''

[11] TURKEY-GERMANY - LABOUR AND SOCIAL MINISTER OKUYAN RECEIVES ANDRES, UNDERSECRETARY OF GERMAN MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL ORDER

[12] ISTANBUL AND ATHENS MUNICIPALITIES TO SIGN COOPERATION PROTOCOL

[13] IMF-WORLD BANK MEETINGS - RECEP ONAL, STATE MINISTER TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY DEMIRALP, TREASURY UNDERSECRETARY AND DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARIES IN HIS VISIT TO U.S.

[14] ANNIVERSARY OF CASPIAN OIL AGREEMENT - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''THE AGREEMENT OF THE CENTURY WAS A HISTORICAL TURNING POINT FOR THE INITIATIVES TO INCREASE THE PROSPERITY IN SISTER AZERBAIJAN AND ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN HER INTEGRATION WITH THE WORLD IN EVERY FIELD'' - ''THE BAKU-CEYHAN OIL PIPELINE PROJECT WILL BE THE MOST BRILLIANT PEACE PROJECT OF THE 21ST CENTURY''

[15] TUBITAK:''THERE IS NO EXTRAORDINARY TEMPERATURE INCREASE IN MARMARA SEA OR IN IZMIT GULF''

[16] MINISTER OF ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES ERSUMER MEETS WITH GAZPROM DIRECTOR VYAHIREV - RUSSIA TO GIVE TURKEY 150,000 CUBICMETERS OF MORE NATURAL GAS PER HOUR

[17] CASE ABOUT OCALAN, HEAD TERRORIST WHO ASKED FOR ASYLUM RIGHT FROM ITALY ENDS

[18] FOREIGN AID TO QUAKE REGION - SINGAPORE-TURKEY FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION WORK ON PREFABRICATED HOUSING PROJECT

[19] GAYDALI, MINISTER OF STATE, IN PARIS - TURKEY AND FRANCE TO SIGN A COOPERATION AGREEMENT REGARDING USAGE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY WITH PEACEFUL TARGETS

[20] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES WOLF, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE U.S. PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON TO CASPIAN BASIN

[21] COEPA AUTUMN TERM GENERAL ASSEMBLY STUDIES START WITH ONE MINUTE SILENCE IN RESPECT FOR EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN TURKEY AND GREECE

[22] INCIDENTS IN BAYRAMPASA PRISON - TURK, MINISTER OF JUSTICE: ''TRANQUILITY IS PROVIDED IN THE PRISON AT THE MOMENT''

[23] REPRESENTATIVES OF ANTAKYA CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX COMMUNITY EXPRESS CONDOLENCES OVER THE DEATH OF PEOPLE IN MASSIVE EARTHQUAKE

[24] WOLF, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON TO CASPIAN BASIN: ''TURKEY PROVIDED AN IMPORTANT AMOUNT OF FINANCIAL GUARANTEE TO BAKU- CEYHAN PROJECT. THE BALL IS SQUARELY IN THE COURT OF AIOC''

[25] FM CEM: ''I AM IN A CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM ON THE ISSUE OF TURKISH-EU RAPPROCHEMENT''

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL) PLANE CRASHES INTO LAKE, INJURING TWO PEOPLE
A plane crashed into Mogan lake in Golbası county of Ankara due to a failure in its gear lever, injuring two people. Taner Ozturk who had earlier took the picture of the lake, took off for this time by the plane used by Mustafa Buyuksonmez, the pilot. The gear lever of the plane was locked due to a technical failure. Doctors in Social Installation of Private Sevgi Hospital saw the plane crash and helped the wounded persons after they were taken out from lake. The injured people were later taken under medical treatment.

TURKEY-U.S. TEXTILE MEETINGS TO START IN WASHINGTON D.C.
ON WEDNESDAY
Turkey-U.S. textile meetings will start in Washington D.C. on Sept 22 Wednesday. Kursad Tuzmen, the Undersecretary of the Foreign Trade and Don Johnson, the Chief Textile Negotiator of the U.S. Trade Representation will preside the two delegations during the meetings, which will last for two days. Prime Ministry Foreign Trade Undersecretariat recalled that ''Turkey requested on September 28 to meet with the American officials by sending them a note as the quota amounts in Turkish exports of textile and ready-to- wear clothes to the U.S. don't meet the need of the exporters.'' The statement pointed out that an agreement was reached to hold the mentioned meetings between 22-23 September in Washington D.C.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

SABAH (LIBERAL)

OCALAN FILES A SUIT
Abdullah Ocalan, the head of the terrorist organization PKK, who is imprisoned on Imralı island, claimed that writer Altemur Kılıc insulted him through press. The case will be heard by the Penal Court of Bakırkoy. The first session is on November 17. Kılıcı said that he would participate in the court sessions and defend himself.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

U.N STARTS ITS 54TH TERM ACTIVITIES TODAY
The U.N. General Assembly's 54th term activities start on Monday Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister will represent Turkey in the meetings. Cem who came to New York on Saturday, worked with Volkan Vural, Turkey's Permanent Representative to the U.N. and other diplomats on Sunday. Cem will address the General Assembly on Thursday afternoon. After participating in the opening session of the meetings, Cem will meet respectively with his Spanish counterpart Abel Matutes, Belgian Foreign Minister Eric Derycke, the Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jacques Poo and the Danish Foreign Minister Niels Helveg Petersen.

RADIKAL (LEFT)

ROAD COLLAPSES IN YALOVA PROVINCE
A part of the coastal road of Yalova province collapsed. A lorry which was going on the road, was nearly falling into the sea. The road collapsed when the lorry was going on the road and half of the lorry was buried under the soil. The driver of the lorry said that he was nearly falling into the sea and he has two or three million loss.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

ECEVIT'S VISIT TO U.S.
If Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit who will visit the U.S. on September 26 can persuade Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, Turkey can get an income source of 29 billion dollars.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

WE HAVE PROMOTED IN GNP
The World Bank said that Turkey promoted from 23th place to 22nd place in the Gross National Product (GNP) criteria among nearly 150 countries. The World Bank 1999 World Development Report indicated that the activity in Turkey's economy showed a stable increase in accordance with the 1988 figures. The report said that the GNP of Turkey which was 199.5 billion U.S. dollars in 1997 increased to 200.5 billion U.S. dollars in 1998. The report noted that Turkey is in the 89th place in the national income per capita criteria.

[02] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS ADMINISTRATION CENTER SAYS TENT STOCKS REACH 109, 383

The Prime Ministry Crisis Administration Center statement noted that the tents which are purchased or which are granted are more qualified than the tents of the Red Crescent and that they can accomodate many people.

Emphasizing that they set up qualified tents in the tent-sites after the qualified tents are provided, the statement noted that to this end, the number of tent-sites decreased.

The statement continued, ''the number of the tent-sites decreased from 159 to 118 and the number of tents in the tent-sites decreased from 34,000 to 29,000 after bigger tents were set up and the tents of the Red Crescent were removed. A total of 80,000 families were given tents.''

''We are in contact with many countries to provide tents and the tents are being sent to Turkey. We have contacted some foreign companies which produce tents that are resistant to cold weather to allocate 40,000 tents. The tents continue to arrive in our country. These tents are replaced by the tents which were earlier set up, within the framework of the rehabilitation of the tent-sites,'' the statement added.

''The tents which are replaced by the new tents are being distributed to citizens who do not want to settle down in the tent-sites and who do not want to return back to their houses although they are not damaged in the quake,'' the statement ended.

[03] GURTUNA, ISTANBUL MAYOR PARTICIPATES IN DINNER HOSTED BY AVRAMOPULOS, ATHENS MAYOR

Speaking in the dinner, Gurtuna said that the death toll and number of collapsed buildings due to the massive earthquake is high in Turkey, adding ''I have one consolation, we won the friendship of the Greek people due to that disaster. Greek people is friend of Turkish people. We hope this friendship to continue.''

''For a long time, we had artificial tension between the two countries, but the countries showed their natural behaviour due to disasters. I believe that we will lay down important stones of this peace. Let's set up this friendship and peace world together,'' Gurtuna added.

Avramopulos, the mayor of Athens said in his part that a human tragedy is also seen in Greece due to the quake disaster.

''I had earlier said that the quake in Turkey opened the way for bringing the two nations together. When I said that, I couldn't guess a similar quake would hit Athens. Your existance here brings a new solidarity message and the whole Greek people welcomes you. Our mission is to activate the common feelings of our nations and make them come true,'' said Avramopulos, adding this disaster is a historical opportunity regarding improvement of friendship and peace between two peoples.

''When you return to Istanbul, take the friendship feelings of people living in Athens. Tell people in Turkey that their pain is also our pain. Our hearts beat at the same time. Recall to politicians that they should be aware of their historical responsibilities. Certain initiatives should start and positive decisions should be taken,'' added Avramopulos.

Ali Tuygan, the Turkish Ambassador to Greece and leading businessmen of Athens also participated in the dinner.

[04] PARKS, CHIEF ECONOMIST OF WORLD BANK: ''REFORMS IN AGRICULTURE AND BANKING SECTORS WILL BE VERY IMPORTANT IN RESPECT OF TURKEY'S ECONOMY''

Recently being appointed to the Turkey desk, Parks said that although the quake disaster had negative impact on Turkey economy in the short term, it will help in recovery of the Turkish economy both in undertaking economic reforms and reconstruction work in disaster region.

Noting that the important thing that matters is distribution of the credit given due to the quake disaster and its area of usage, Parks said that ''300 million dollars part of the 1 billion and 50 million dollars will be given as re-allocation of the money remaining from project credits. This money will be used in construction of hospitals and schools in the disaster region.''

Parks added that the remaining 750 million dollars will be used in financing construction and infrastructure activities in the disaster region and for social aid.

They didn't talk to the government about the usage of 750 million dollars, said Parks, pointing out that ''a delegation from the World Bank will visit the disaster region next week and work on usage of this money.''

Small and medium scale enterprises were seriously damaged by the quake in Marmara region said Parks, adding the government's transferring financial source to these enterprises is very important.

Stressing that preparing a final report about damage-assessment work and finance, needs more work, Parks said that the limited number about the total damage is known.

''You can't fully measure the recovery ability of the economy and you can't measure the social affects of this quake,'' said Parks, adding ''the main thing is putting economy on its right track by taking reasonable policies and through continuation of foreign assistance and reforms.''

Recalling that both Ajay Chibber, the Director of World Bank's Turkey Desk and other concerned officials of the Bank started to work in the disaster region just after the quake, Parks said that Turkey adopted the social security reform and constitutional change about international arbitration and these show that Turkey is successful in taking reforms.

''Reform in agriculture and banking sectors are also very important reforms. The former will not only ease the burden of agriculture on public finance, but also contribute to development of agriculture. If Turkey continues its structural reforms, we are ready to make the necassary aid to Turkey including the Structral Adjustment Loan (SAL),'' said Parks.

Stressing that Turkey's signing of a stand-by agreement with IMF will be a very important signal in respect of Turkey's economy to the world, Parks said that this will increase the support coming from abroad to Turkey and it is also important for the World Bank.

Parks added that Turkey's being loyal to the economic targets mentioned in the agreement reached with IMF is also important.

[05] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''A NEW CYPRUS PLAN IS OUT OF QUESTION''

Speaking to reporters following the meeting at the Prime Ministry building, Ecevit said Mark Parris and he discussed the details of the visit he would pay to the U.S. between Sepember 26 and October 2.

Ecevit stated that Mark Parris would leave for the U.S. on Wednesday.

When asked whether or not a new Cyprus plan was on the agenda, the Prime Minister said, ''no, such a thing is out of question.''

[06] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES IBRAHIM BODUR, PRESIDENT OF KALE GROUP'S EXECUTIVE BOARD AND DOMINGO COLOMO, MANAGER OF SPANISH ROCHE GROUP

During their visit, Ibrahim Bodur briefed Demirel about common investments of Kale and Roche groups.

Bodur later presented a 200,000 U.S. dollars donation to President Demirel on behalf of Roche and Kale Group.

Demirel said their donation will be used for the reconstruction of disaster areas. Jescis Atienza, the Spanish Ambassador in Ankara was also present during the visit.

[07] TURKEY-NATURAL GAS

The researches proved that Turkey will demand 55 billion cubic meters natural gas in the year 2010 and 82 billion cubic meters natural gas in the year 2020 while the BOTAS is carrying out several projects to supply that demand.

The officials at the BOTAS said the BOTAS had seven different agreements with five countries. The purchases of natural gas from Russia and Algeria in accordance with three of those seven agreements continue while the transportation from Nigeria will start in October within the framework of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Trade Agreement.

There are also three pipeline agreements which were signed with Iran, Turkmenistan and Russia (blue stream).

Officials said they had sent letter of invitation in May 1998 to several companies for the supply of LNG to the Second LNG Terminal within the scope of the LNG Chain Project.

''The possible supply countries within this scope are Qatar, Egypt, Yemen, Nigeria and Norway. The BOTAS is now evaluating the bids of the companies which gave response to our letter of invitation. The etudes concerning the construction place of the LNG terminal are underway. We foresee a LNG supply of 4 to 6 billion cubic meters within this scope,'' officials said.

''Besides, Iraq is a country which has an annual import potential of 10 billion cubic meters. Making use of this potential depends on lifting of the embargo imposed on Iraq by the United Nations. Also, Azerbaijan is considered as a supplementary supply source country,'' oficials added.

Officials said the estimated natural gas consumption in Turkey in 1999 would be almost 13-13.5 billion cubic meters, and it would reach nearly 15.5 cubic meters in the year 2000.

Noting that they would purchase nine billion cubic meters natural gas from Russia, 300 million cubic meters from the Turkish Petroleum Inc (TPAO), and 3.7 billion cubic meters from Algeria and Nigeria in 1999, the officials said, ''the purchases in the year 2000 from Russia, Algeria, Nigeria and the TPAO will meet the demand in the year 2000.''

[08] PRESIDENT DEMIREL SPEAKS ON AZERBAIJANI TV CHANNEL: ''PIPELINE SHOULD BE CONSTRUCTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. AZERBAJANI RESOURCES SHOULD REACH WORLD MARKETS AND BE CONVERTED TO CASH''

President Demirel answered the questions of the Azerbaijani television on the fifth anniversary of the oil agreement namely Mega Project.

''This pipeline should be built as soon as possible. These resources should be transferred to world markets and converted into cash. Azerbaijan should be able to make investments with this cash and develop its economy,'' Demirel said and congratulated Azerbaijan for this big project. ''We are celebrating the fifth anniversary of a great project. I send love to our Azerbaijani brothers and sisters, and congratulate Haydar Aliyev,'' Demirel stated.

''Baku-Ceyhan pipeline will first carry 25-30 million tons of oil. Later this could easily become to 50 million tons in the next 4 or 5 years. This figure will climb up to 100 million tons with the Uzbek and Turkmen oil. We started Kerkuk-Yumurtalik and Kerkuk-Ceyhan pipeline the same way and then it rose to 100 million tons. I believe that in the next ten years, Baku- Ceyhan will carry 100 million tons of naphta. Azerbaijani will be filling half of this. Azerbaijan can export 50 million tons of naphta and it will be a powerful state in the world economy. Moreover, Azerbaijan can export 20 to 25 billion cubicmeters of natural gas. Natural gas has an economic value which is close to that of oil's. There is a big demand for natural gas and Turkey is Azerbaijan's closest customer. When Azerbaijani natural gas and oil reach other countries' markets, Azerbaijani will be able to get whatever it likes with that cash,'' Demirel said.

[09] KDP LEADER BARZANI:''THE ONLY THING PKK DOES IS TO PLANT A MINE ON A CIVILIAN ROAD OR TRY TO BLOW UP A SCHOOL OR A MOSQUE''

Barzani, who spoke on Radio Free Europe, evaluated the situation of the economic growth in the Northern Iraq, infrastructure works, parliament elections, Turkmens and Assyrians, and the KDP's relations with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and the terrorist organization PKK.

Barzani stressed that the necessary dialogue with Baghdad continues. ''This does not mean that we are in agreement with Baghdad. Nonetheless, if we differ with Baghdad, it does not mean that we will take up arms and fight. We are calling for a civilized solution to the Kurdish issue, and the language of the age is the dialogue,'' he pointed out.

Barzani also mentioned the situation of Turkmens and Assyrians living in Northern Iraq. Both of these groups of minorities teach their own language in the schools, participate in the Kurdish Parliament. He expressed his hope that ''they will participate in the government of the region and in the forthcoming elections''.

On the situation in Northern Iraq, Berzani said the infrastructure development works are rapidly developing. He said the economic situation in Nortern Iraq was ''constantly improving... despite the difficulties they are having''. ''Despite the destruction of the economic infrastructure, the Kurdish authorities have been able to retool some plants so that they can utilize available resources. Now, the focus is on reconstruction and the building of civil institutions,'' he said.

As far as relations with the PUK are concerned, he maintains the KDP's position is that the outcome of the 1992 elections should define their relationship. Since the IKYB does not accept this position, ''new elections should be held and...prior preparations should be made for these elections''.

During the PUK-KDP conflicts in 1996, KDP peshmergas, with the help of Saddam Hussein's soldiers, took the possession of Arbil and Suleymaniye cities which were under Talabani's control. The PUK forces later sided with Iranian soldiers and took Sulaymaniyah back from the KDP. However Arbil remained under the KDP's control.

The U.S. brought Kurdish groups of Northern Iraq in Washington D.C. which was followed by Ankara process. However opposing Kurdish groups failed to reach an agreement.

[10] COUNCIL OF EUROPE:''OCALAN WAS TRIED IN ACCORDANCE WITH LAWS IN TURKEY''

Staging a press briefing upon the commencement of the fall term general council meetings of COEPA, Johnson said responding to a question that a group of COEPA parliamentarians followed the court sessions of Ocalan in Turkey, adding ''parliamentarians who followed the sessions think that the trial was heard in accordance with law.''

Noting that the COE is against death penalty, Johnson stated that Turkey knows very well the sensitivity of COE about this issue.

COEPA Chairman also thanked Turkish officials for permitting the world public opinion to watch the court sessions.

A report which had been earlier published by the Council of the COEPA said that Turkey tried the head of the terrorist organization in line with laws. A new report notes that Turkish officials attributed great importance to holding the court sessions openly in front of the world public opinion, adding international human rights was respected during the trial.

[11] TURKEY-GERMANY - LABOUR AND SOCIAL MINISTER OKUYAN RECEIVES ANDRES, UNDERSECRETARY OF GERMAN MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL ORDER

Addressing the meeting, Undersecretary Andres said they would visit the quake zone on Tuesday, expressing sorrow over the losses in the earthquake on behalf of the German people.

Guest Undersecretary presented the document concerning the two dialyzers which were donated by a hospital in Germany.

Noting that the donation was a symbol of the solidarity between the Turkish and German peoples, Andres said, ''the German government extended financial and moral aid after the quake in Turkey. Aid will continue.''

Labour and Social Security Minister Yasar Okuyan said many countries had launched financial and moral initiatives to share the grief in Turkey after the earthquake, recalling that one of those countries was Germany.

Expressing gratitude over the donated analyzers, Okuyan said such aid and donations would contribute to development of relations between Turkey and Germany.

Pointing out that there had been some troubles in the relations between Turkey and Germany especially during the process of Turkey's candidacy to the European Union (EU), Okuyan said, ''however, we are pleased with the current position of the new German government.''

[12] ISTANBUL AND ATHENS MUNICIPALITIES TO SIGN COOPERATION PROTOCOL

Ali Mufit Gurtuna, the Istanbul Mayor visited Dimitri Avromopulos, the Athens Mayor on Monday. Avromopulos told Gurtuna that Athens ''not only opens its doors to Turkey, but also its heart'' when he met him at Athens Municipality Palace.

Following a meeting, Avromopulos told the press that he and Gurtuna decided to start a period of solidarity and cooperation which will be for the benefit of both countries and regions. The Athens mayor also called on the politicians to work for peace and the welfare of both nations. Avromopulos thanked to press institutions who contributed to the warming of relations between Turkey and Greece and stressed that the people of the two countries also wanted peace.

The two mayors will sign a cooperation protocol which will include culture, sports activities, tourism and business activities. Avromopulos said that they will set up tent cities which will shelter 8 to 10 thousand people for quake survivors in Turkey.

The Athens Mayor said they must take courageous decisions for the development of peace and solidarity and forget the prejudices that are rooted from the past.

Gurtuna who also spoke to the press pointed out that the outpouring love both in Turkey and Greece was very touching.

''Let us make this friendship and peace permanent,'' Gurtuna said.

Responding to a question, Avromopulos said a convoy of aid sent by four big municipalities in Greece would reach disaster areas in Turkey in 2 to 3 weeks.

[13] IMF-WORLD BANK MEETINGS - RECEP ONAL, STATE MINISTER TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY DEMIRALP, TREASURY UNDERSECRETARY AND DEPUTY UNDERSECRETARIES IN HIS VISIT TO U.S.

The activities of the delegation headed by Onal will be within the framework of the annual meetings of the IMF and World Bank. The delegation will also have contacts with economic and finance circles in the U.S.

The delegation will also take up the revised figures in economic targets of Turkey by the end of this year and macro economic indicators of the budget of 2000 with World Bank and IMF officials.

Another main article of the delegation headed by Onal, the State Minister will be the meetings on Stand-By that will continue in Turkey in October.

This year's article that is at the agenda of IMF-World Bank meetings is ''Development and Global Growth In the Eve of Millenium.''

[14] ANNIVERSARY OF CASPIAN OIL AGREEMENT - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''THE AGREEMENT OF THE CENTURY WAS A HISTORICAL TURNING POINT FOR THE INITIATIVES TO INCREASE THE PROSPERITY IN SISTER AZERBAIJAN AND ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN HER INTEGRATION WITH THE WORLD IN EVERY FIELD'' - ''THE BAKU-CEYHAN OIL PIPELINE PROJECT WILL BE THE MOST BRILLIANT PEACE PROJECT OF THE 21ST CENTURY''

The President said, ''the Baku-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline Project will be the most brilliant peace project of the 21st century.''

President Suleyman Demirel sent a message to Azerbaijani President Haydar Aliyev for his invitation to the ceremonies held upon the anniversary of the agreement.

The Presidential Press Center said Abdulhaluk Cay, the Minister of State who represented President Suleyman Demirel at the ceremonies, submitted his message to the Azerbaijani President.

In his message, President Demirel expressed his pleasure over the invitation to the ceremonies held upon the anniversary of the agreement, which was signed on September 20, 1994 with the world's leading companies for the operation of Azeri, Gunesli and Ciragan oil fields.

Stating that he couldn't participate in the ceremonies due to the works to heal the wounds caused by the huge earthquake that hit the Marmara Region on August 17, 1999, Demirel said, ''the Agreement of the Century was a historical turning point for the initiatives to increase the prosperity in sister Azerbaijan and achieve success in her integration with the world in every field. The determining role you played in the realization of this agreement deserves every kind of appreciation.''

''There has been important progress recorded in implementation of this agreement and increase of oil production in last five years. The concerned countries' most important duty at the current stage is to provide the completion of the works and implementation at the shortest time-frame of the Baku-Ceyhan main export pipeline, which will play a determining role that enables the agreement to make concrete and lasting contributions to the prosperity and stability in the region, especially in Azerbaijan. The Baku-Ceyhan pipeline Project, which is the only project that has the highest-political support of the concerning countries and can provide the energy security in the region, will be the most brilliant peace project of the 21st century, and will make direct contributions to the prosperity in all the countries in the region. I want to once again express my pleasure and gratitude over the support you have been extending to this project since the beginning,'' he said.

''I hope the Agreement of the Century will be beneficial for all the concerning sides, especially for sister Azerbaijan,'' he added.

[15] TUBITAK:''THERE IS NO EXTRAORDINARY TEMPERATURE INCREASE IN MARMARA SEA OR IN IZMIT GULF''

Scientific works carried out by the Marine Science Institute of the Middle East Technical University (METU) and supported by TUBITAK in Marmara Sea, gave its first results.

TUBITAK announced that there was no extraordinary temperature increase in Marmara Sea or in Izmit Gult.

The oil pollution which is normally present in inner parts of Izmit Gulf continues, and no excessive pollution has been observed because of TUPRAS fire, TUBITAK said.

''In other words, the pollution caused by TUPRAS fire in the first days of the disaster, did not create an additional pollution because of water currents in the gulf. It is assumed that oil and its derivations that flowed to the gulf precipitated on the sea ground. But this precipitation is not expected to have a negative effect on fish populations which already cannot reproduce because of lack of oxygen. No incidents that could have been caused by oil leak were observed. The pollution in Izmit Gulf is not higher than the pollution levels prior to the earthquake,'' TUBITAK explained.

[16] MINISTER OF ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES ERSUMER MEETS WITH GAZPROM DIRECTOR VYAHIREV - RUSSIA TO GIVE TURKEY 150,000 CUBICMETERS OF MORE NATURAL GAS PER HOUR

Ersumer told Vyahirev that recently there was a decrease in the pressure of natural gas Turkey receives from Russia and asked for 150,000 cubicmeters more natural gas per hour from Russia because the natural gas terminal at Marmara Ereglisi is undergoing a maintanence. The Russian side accepted to give Turkey more natural gas.

The Turkish-Russian Business Council will convene in Antalya on October 14, Ersumer reminded. The Minister said he invited Vyahirev to the council's meeting and Vyahirev accepted to attend it.

[17] CASE ABOUT OCALAN, HEAD TERRORIST WHO ASKED FOR ASYLUM RIGHT FROM ITALY ENDS

The case was heard by the second civil court of Rome and today lawyers of Ocalan, head terrorist were listened by the court for the last time. The court will give its final verdict about political asylum request of Ocalan within 15 days.

If the court decides to give political asylum right to Ocalan, the head terrorist, the Italian Ministry of Interior will say the last word.

[18] FOREIGN AID TO QUAKE REGION - SINGAPORE-TURKEY FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION WORK ON PREFABRICATED HOUSING PROJECT

Singapore-Turkey Friendship Association currently work on a prefabricated housing project in cooperation with a Dutch company within the framework of foreign aid to the region.

It was reported that at the first stage the association formed a tent site composed of 200 tents in Derince region together with six doctors, two engineers and volunteers.

Meanwhile, it was reported that Gladys Chee, Chairman of the Friendship Association, will come to the quake region again on September 23 together with a new team within the framework of the aid in question.

[19] GAYDALI, MINISTER OF STATE, IN PARIS - TURKEY AND FRANCE TO SIGN A COOPERATION AGREEMENT REGARDING USAGE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY WITH PEACEFUL TARGETS

Following a meeting between Gaydali and Christian Pierret, French State Minister responsible for industry, Turkey and France Tuesday will sign a cooperation agreement regarding usage of nuclear energy for peaceful targets.

Gaydali, who will hold meetings with representatives of several industry sector, is expected to return to Turkey on Friday.

[20] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES WOLF, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE U.S. PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON TO CASPIAN BASIN

A written statement issued by Presidential Press Center pointed out that developments related with Baku-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline and transportation route for Natural Gas Pipeline projects were discussed.

The statement pointed out that President Demirel, during the meeting, attributed great importance to the realization of the two projects soon, adding that ''President Demirel stressed the importance Turkey attributed to the completion of the two projects and that studies to this end continued, and that Turkey continued to work together with the U.S. and other related countries towards the same goal.''

Ambassador Wolf in his part stressed that the U.S. continued its support extended to these two projects with determination and that the U.S. will continue to do its best for the success of joint efforts.

Wolf also said they were absolutely against the idea of broadening Baku- Supsa Early Oil pipeline.

[21] COEPA AUTUMN TERM GENERAL ASSEMBLY STUDIES START WITH ONE MINUTE SILENCE IN RESPECT FOR EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN TURKEY AND GREECE

Turkish and Greek parliamentarians who spoke afterwards, said the quake disaster provided important developments in relations between the two countries, and wished for the continuation of this development.

Uluc Gurkan, COEPA Turkish Group Chairman, thanked to the solidarity and support shown by COE member countries to Turkey after quake disaster.

Gurkan said Turkey had to face a tragedy, adding that Turkish people will know to overcome this problem.

Meanwhile, it was also reported that an exhibition, composed of the photographs which Anadolu Ajansi journalists shooted regarding the quake disaster, was opened in Council of Europe.

[22] INCIDENTS IN BAYRAMPASA PRISON - TURK, MINISTER OF JUSTICE: ''TRANQUILITY IS PROVIDED IN THE PRISON AT THE MOMENT''

Turk, who issued a written statement, pointed out that Kemal Ali Gursel, a prisoner, was killed by Hakan Ciloglu, another prisoner at 16:00 local time in Istanbul Bayrampasa Closed Prison on Monday.

Turk said seven prisoners were killed and three others were wounded in incidents which erupted afterwards, adding that:

''After telephone talks with Ferzan Citici, Istanbul Republican Chief Prosecutor, it was clarified that the fight erupted between prisoners linked with Tevfik Agansoy and prisoners linked with Alaatin Cakici.''

Pointing out that an investigation has been launched regarding the incident, Turk said three republican prosecutors and two justice insectors were assigned to investigate the incident.

[23] REPRESENTATIVES OF ANTAKYA CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX COMMUNITY EXPRESS CONDOLENCES OVER THE DEATH OF PEOPLE IN MASSIVE EARTHQUAKE

President Suleyman Demirel received Josef Naseh, Chairman of Antakya Christian Orthodox Church Community Foundation Board of trustees and an accompanying delegation.

Naseh expressed gratitude over the meeting and his condolences over the death of people after the massive earthquake which hit Marmara region.

Speaking during the meeting Demirel said people had the soul of brotherhood whatever their beliefs are, adding that ''as the citizens of democratic, secular Turkish Republic which is based on priority of law, we embrace each other in case of an incident. This means a great solidarity.''

Noting that everybody was free in his thoughts and beliefs in Turkey, Demirel said ''one of the duties of Turkish Republic is that it is the guarantee of this freedom. Everybody worships in the way they want.''

[24] WOLF, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON TO CASPIAN BASIN: ''TURKEY PROVIDED AN IMPORTANT AMOUNT OF FINANCIAL GUARANTEE TO BAKU- CEYHAN PROJECT. THE BALL IS SQUARELY IN THE COURT OF AIOC''

Addressing a news conference staged in the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Wolf briefed about the point reached in Baku-Ceyhan Pipeline project.

Recalling that he was received by President Suleyman Demirel within the framework of his contacts in Ankara, Wolf said they discussed Baku-Ceyhan Pipeline Project that will transport Azeri oil to western markets.

Pointing out that route of the pipeline was a very important region due to strategic means, Wolf said an agreement due to economic and trade means was possible, adding that Turkey did its best to this end.

Wolf said he met with Eduard Shevardnaze, Georgian President, and Haydar Aliev, Azerbaijani President within the framework of his visit to the region, adding that both of these two leaders were discontended with the extension of the talks.

Wolf said Turkey contributed important guarantees like the financial guarantee and international arbitration to implement Baku-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline Project, adding that ''the ball is squarely in the court of AIOC to transport Azeri oil to western markets.''

Pointing out that AIOC should take into consideration these guarantees provided by Turkey for the implementation of Baku-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline Project, Wolf said he hoped an improvement will be recorded in study group meeting that will start in the U.S. this week.

Wolf said Baku-Supsa Pipeline project was not on the negotiation table in transportation of Azeri oil to western markets.

Mentioning about Turkmen natural gas project, Wolf said security was very important in Trans-Caucasian pipeline project which will transport Turkmen natural gas to Turkey and to western markets via Turkey with pipelines that will be installed under the Caspian sea. He said cooperation should be improved between the countries of the region.

Wolf said Turkey once more undertook that it regarded Trans-Caucasian pipeline project among the projects which have priority.

In the final part of his news conference Wolf said he was not against Blue Stream Project, which envisages bringing natural gas from Russia to Turkey with a pipeline that will be installed under the Black sea, yet defended that this project was difficult due to technical means.

[25] FM CEM: ''I AM IN A CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM ON THE ISSUE OF TURKISH-EU RAPPROCHEMENT''

Foreign Minister Ismail Cem met Abel Matutes, his Spanish counterpart, in New York on Monday. Meeting between the two foreign ministers lasted nearly half an hour.

Diplomatic sources told A.A correspondent that the two ministers confirmed during the meeting that there was no political conflict between Turkey and Spain, and decided to seach for ways to further improve bilateral relations especially in the field of economy.

It was reported that Ismail Cem invited Matutes to Turkey in this respect.

Speaking during the meeting Matutues reiterated the support his country extended to Turkey, and focused that positive developments were recorded in Turkish-EU relations following the lunch which Cem had with the EU foreign ministers at Luxembourg.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Ismail Cem expressed pleasure over this yet added that he was still in a cautious optimism.

Cem is currently having a bilateral meeting with Eric Derycke, his Belgian counterpart. Foreign Minister Cem will later meet with foreign ministers of Luxembourg and Russia.

A.A

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