Anadolu Agency: News in English, 98-02-10

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From: The Anadolu Agency Home Page at <http://www.anadoluajansi.gov.tr/>

10 FEB 1998

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] TURKEY-AZERBAIJAN - AZERI PRESIDENT ALIEV TO TURKEY ON FRIDAY

[03] TURKEY-ITALY - POPE JEAN PAUL II RECEIVES FETULLAH GULEN

[04] TURKEY-US - US SECRETARY OF STATE ALBRIGHT: ''TURKEY AND GREECE SUPPORT EXPANSION OF NATO''

[05] TURKEY-EU - RP LEADER SENDS A LETTER TO EU PARLIAMENT DELEGATION

[06] TURKEY IN BRIEF - FEBRUARY 10, 1998

[07] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (1)

[08] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (2)

[09] TURKEY-UN-IRAQ - PROF. DR. MIRZAOGLU: ''DESTRUCTION OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS IN IRAQ IN THEIR DEPLOYMENT PLACES WOULD AFFECT ALSO OUR SOUTHERN PART''

[10] TURKEY-TERRORISM - SEVEN TERRORISTS, ONE SECURITY OFFICIAL KILLED

[11] TURKEY-EU (1) - TURKISH-EU JEC MEETING

[12] TURKEY-EU (2) - TURKISH-EU JPC MEETING

[13] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - HABUR CIVIL ADMINISTRATOR GULDIBI: ''THERE IS NO MIGRATION FROM NORTHERN IRAQ TO OUR BORDERS''

[14] TURKEY-THE BALKANS - FOREING MINISTER CEM: ''A MEETING BY TURKISH AMBASSADORS TO THE BALKANS IN A BALKAN CAPITAL IS PLANNED''

[15] TURKEY-AFGHANISTAN - DEMIREL SENDS CONDOLENCES MESSAGE TO AFGHANISTAN

[16] TURKEY IN BRIEF (2)- FEBRUARY 10, 1998

[17] TURKEY-US - DTP LEADER CINDORUK RECEIVES US AMBASSADOR TO ANKARA PARRIS - PARRIS: ''THE US POLICY HAS ALWAYS RESPECTED IRAQ'S TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO''

[18] TURKEY-EU (3) - JPC MEETING ENDS - DIALOGUE BETWEEN TURKISH PARLIAMENT AND EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT TO CONTINUE

[19] TURKEY-EU (4) - FOREIGN MIINSTER CEM: ''EU CONCEPT SHOULD NOTBE REGARDED AS A PROOF OF TURKEY'S IDENTITY'' - ''AN UNJUST DISCRIMINATION WAS MADE TOWARDS TURKEY IN LUXEMBOURG SUMMIT''

[20] TURKEY-NARCOTICS - SECURITY OFFICIALS SEIZE 9.6 KG OF HEROIN IN EASTERN AGRI PROVINCE

[21] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - SITUATION IN INCIRLIK BASE

[22] TURKEY-EU (5) - JPC CO-PRESIDENT AKARCALI: ''TURKEY WISHES IMPLEMENTATION OF INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS AND MECHANISMS''

[23] TURKEY-THE BALKANS - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ RECEIVES TURKISH AMBASSADORS TO THE BALKANS - YILMAZ: ''THE BALKANS IS A WINDOW OPENING TO EUROPE FOR TURKEY''

[24] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - HUMANITARIAN AID COORDINATION COMMITTEE CONVENES TO DISCUSS SERVICES THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED AFTER A POSSIBLE MILITARY STRIKE

[25] TURKEY IN BRIEF (3)- FEBRUARY 10, 1998

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL) GUARANTEE FROM THE US:
1- No Kurdish state will be established in Northern Iraq.

2- We have no demand from Turkey for the operation to Saddam.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

SABAH (LIBERAL)

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

RADIKAL (LEFT)

YEN� Y�ZYIL (LIBERAL)

T�RK�YE (RIGHT)

First of all administration centers and communication systems would be devastated. In the second attack, chemical weapon depots and military bases would be bombed. Thirdly, Republican guards who protect Iraqi leader would be killed.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

FINANSAL FORUM (ECONOMY)

[02] TURKEY-AZERBAIJAN - AZERI PRESIDENT ALIEV TO TURKEY ON FRIDAY

A high ranking official from the Foreign Ministry said Aliev is scheduled to meet President Suleyman Demirel and Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz in Istanbul on Friday.

President Suleyman Demirel and Azeri President Aliev are expected to stage a joint news conference on Saturday.

[03] TURKEY-ITALY - POPE JEAN PAUL II RECEIVES FETULLAH GULEN

Addressing to Pope Gulen expressed willingness to be a part of the Holy Council for Inter-religion Dialogue (PCID).

Gulen said Islam was a religion that is misunderstood, adding that Islam world will embrace a dialogue facility that will overcome this misunderstanding.

Gulen said they were in dialogue with the leaders of Christianity in Turkey, stressing that their aim was to install dialogue, tolarance and brotherhood among the believers of these three main religions.

Gulen also recalled President Suleyman Demirel's invitation to Pope Jean Paul II to Turkey.

Pope Jean Paul II in his part expressed pleasure over Gulen's invitation to Turkey, adding that he had visited Turkey on Dec. 1979 and that he was very pleased over the hospitality in Turkey.

Pope stressed the importance of dialogue between the believers and expressed willingness for the continuation of this.

[04] TURKEY-US - US SECRETARY OF STATE ALBRIGHT: ''TURKEY AND GREECE SUPPORT EXPANSION OF NATO''

Responding to a question that Turkey and Greece opposed to NATO's expansion due to their own national interests, Albright said that she was together with their partners in NATO in many meetings. All of them understand that expansion of NATO Alliance is for the national interests of everybody whatever their own national interests are, she said. Albright added that they have seen that there was a wide support for the expansion of NATO.

Czech Republic, Hungary and Polland were invited to the Alliance during the Madrid Summit of NATO that took place last summer.

[05] TURKEY-EU - RP LEADER SENDS A LETTER TO EU PARLIAMENT DELEGATION

In his letter Erbakan said Laakso took floor during Council of Europe (COE) meeting that took place on Jan 25-30 and stressed that the decision taken to close Welfare Party (RP) contradicted with all the principles of law and European Human Rights Accord.

Erbakan said, ''I want to convey our thanks on behalf of our people and RP, as you said such decisions should be protested by COE and that you said measures should be taken urgently to prevent such human rights and law violations.''

He said, ''I want to thank you over the sensitivity you have shown to these important issues which provides the happiness of all humanity.'' Erbakan said, ''studies are underway meticulously in Turkey and to the organizations in COE in Strasbourg to overcome such grave violations of law and human rights and we expect your contributions in this respect.'

[06] TURKEY IN BRIEF - FEBRUARY 10, 1998

Meidani will be accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Bashkim Fino, Foreign Minister and Economy-Privatization Minister.

Albanian President Recep Meidani will meet with President Suleyman Demirel, Parliament Speaker Hikmet Cetin, Chief of General Staff General Ismail Hakki Karadayi, Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit and Foreign Minister Ismail Cem during his visit.

LEFKOSA - Turkish Union of Chambers of Agriculture (TZOB), Turkish Central Union of Agricultural Cooperative Credit and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Union of Farmers on Tuesday signed a principle agreement foreseeing cooperation in several fields.

The agreement, which was signed in Lefkosa, targets to brief TRNC farmers on every technological developments in Turkey and in the world through TRNC Union of Farmers.

TEL AVIV - The ''Third Turkish Export Products Fair'' was opened in Tel Aviv on Tuesday.

Nearly 50 Turkish companies from textile, construction, products, tourism, marble and glass sectors have stands in the fair organized by the ''ABC Fair''.

The fair will remain open for four days.

ISTANBUL - State Minister Burhan Kara left for Pakistan on Monday together with a 25-people delegation composed of private sector representatives, to participate in Turkish-Pakistani Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meetings.

Speaking before his departure from Istanbul's Ataturk Airport Kara said Turkey and Pakistan were two friendly and brotherly countries, adding that the meetings will have positive contribution to this friendship.

Responding to a question Kara said trade volume between Turkey and Pakistan was realized as 150 million dollar in 1996. ''Willingness in both sides gives the signal that our trade volume will be increased in the near future, '' he said.

Kara said he would proceed to Mongolia after Pakistan to participate in Turkish-Mongolian JEC meetings and added that he would hold talks to increase the existing trade relations with this country.

State Minister Kara is expected to return to Turkey on Feb 20.

[07] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (1)

(Derived from Newsspot of the Turkish Directorate of General Press and Information.)

YILMAZ MEETS WITH DISK CHAIRMAN
Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz met with Ridvan Budak, chairman of the Confederation of Revolutionary Workers' Unions (DISK) in Istanbul yesterday. Yilmaz answered reporters' questions about the crisis in Iraq. "We wish our ally the US had had more contact with us" he said. He referred to remarks by Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, who stated that Turkey's main cause for concern was the possibility that the US plans to establish a Kurdish state in Iraq.

Yilmaz also pointed out that Iraq should comply with all UN resolutions and not allow an armed conflict to develop. "I hope that we will not experience developments which will be harmful to Turkey" he said. In a weekly press conference yesterday, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Necati Utkan affirmed that Ankara is making proper "contingency plans" in case of intense military build-up and a possible military strike in the region. /All papers/

US AGAINST A KURDISH STATE
Washington has replied to Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit's claims regarding the US stance yesterday. US Ambassador to Ankara, Marc Parris, later made a statement and said: "The essence of our policy is to protect the territorial integrity of Iraq. We are against an independent Kurdish state". US State Department Spokesman James Foley also noted that the territorial integrity of Iraq would be protected. /Cumhuriyet-Sabah/

HUMANITARIAN AID REGION ESTABLISHED
Due to the war which could explode in the Gulf and to prevent a likely Kurdish immigration to Turkey from northern Iraq, the Turkish Armed Forces have completed their preparations to establish a security corridor, which they have set-up in northern Iraq together with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). The Turkish Red Cross has sent many tents and medicine supplies to the Southeast region, while the General Directorate of Civilian Defense has sent gas masks. Governor of the State of Emergency Rule Region, Aydin Arslan, said: "We are closely following developments in Iraq. There is no extraordinary situation there now". /Cumhuriyet/

ANKARA SHAKEN BY BRITISH FM COOK'S STATEMENT
Ankara reacted fiercely to British Foreign Minister Robin Cook`s statement that Britain would be pleased with an authority gap in Iraq which could end in the division of the country. British Ambassador to Ankara David Logan was summoned yesterday to the Turkish Foreign Ministry and was informed about Turkish anxiety over Cook`s statement. "Statements like this will only serve as a justification for Saddam's feverish armament drive", Turkish Foreign Ministry officials said. /Hurriyet/

(COTINUES)

[08] TURKEY-PRESS REVIEW (2)

(Derived from Newsspot of the Turkish Directorate of General Press and Information.)

US PLANES IN INCIRLIK
The US has sent new EA-6B Prowler planes to Incirlik military base near Adana. The planes are able to render enemy radar equipment ineffective, and will greatly facilitate US military action if a possible hot confrontation flares up in Iraq. /Hurriyet/

CRISIS COORDINATION COUNCIL MEETING
The Prime Ministry Crisis Coordination Council set up by the National Security Council (NSC) in 1997 will convene today to evaluate the latest developments in Iraq. The meeting will be headed by State Minister responsible for coordination Sukru Sina Gurel. Representatives of the General Staff and various ministries will attend the meeting. /Sabah/

TURKISH EMBASSY IN BAGHDAD WILL NOT BE EVACUATED
At a press conference yesterday, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Necati Utkan denied reports that personnel from the Turkish Embassy in Baghdad will be called back to Turkey. According to Utkan, the related decision will be given by the Turkish Ambassador to Baghdad depending on developments in the region. /Sabah/

PAPA-GULEN MEETING
Fettullah Gulen, who went to the Vatican at the invitation of Pope II Jean Paul, was received by the Pope yesterday at his residence. During the meeting, which lasted for nearly half-hour, Fettullah Gulen conveyed Turkish President Suleyman Demirel's invitation to Pope to visit Turkey and noted that he would be happy to assist in these arrangements. /Cumhuriyet/

ALIYEV TO VISIT TURKEY
It is reported that Azeri President Haydar Aliyev will visit Turkey on 13 February. A high-level official from the Turkish Foreign Ministry said that Aliyev would meet with President Suleyman Demirel and Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz. Demirel and Aliyev are expected to hold a joint press conference on Saturday. /Cumhuriyet/

COTTON BOURSE IN GAP
While Turkey's first cotton bourse is being set up within the Southeast Anatolian Project (GAP), seven product bourses will be established throughout Turkey with the financal support of the World Bank. Deputy Undersecretary of the Industry and Trade Ministry, Mustafa Korel Aytac, said that when product bourses work according to international norms, the problem of support price, which actually works against producers, would be removed. /Cumhuriyet/

JORDAN AIR FORCE COMMANDER VISITS TURKEY
Turkish Air Force Commander Gen.Ilhan Kilic said yesterday that they are taking all necessary measures in the Iraqi crisis. Gen.Kilic met his with Jordanian counterpart, Maj.Gen.Mohammed Kahir Ababneh, at Turkish Air Force Headquarters and praised the deep-rooted relations between Turkey and Jordan. The guest commander will visit several air bases throughout the country and will leave Ankara on Friday.

Ababneh said that he was very pleased to be in Turkey. In response to questions, Ababneh said that he would prefer a peaceful solution to the current Iraq-US crisis, one that will not harm Iraq's interests or its territorial integrity. He also defended controversial Turkish-Israeli ties, saying thet he believed Turkey when it had assured Jordan that these ties would not target any third country. Gen.Ababneh later visited the Chief of General Staff Gen.Ismail Hakki Karadayi and Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ismet Sezgin. /Sabah/

TURKEY'S AMBASSADORS IN BALKANS CONFER ON SECI
Ankara held consultations with its ambassadors in the Southeast European Cooperative Initiative (SECI) yesterday "on the great

importance Turkey attaches to its relations with Balkan countries and to the process of the South Eastern Initiative" the Foreign Ministry announced.

The present round of discussions will be held in Ankara on February 9-10, Spokesman Necati Utkan said, "During the discussions, views will be exchanged on our policy for the region and preparations concerning the meeting of foreign ministers and heads of states or governments of southeastern European countries, which we plan to hold this year, will be reviewed". Regional ambassadors will meet with President Suleyman Demirel and Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz today.

[09] TURKEY-UN-IRAQ - PROF. DR. MIRZAOGLU: ''DESTRUCTION OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS IN IRAQ IN THEIR DEPLOYMENT PLACES WOULD AFFECT ALSO OUR SOUTHERN PART''

Stressing the importance of the nature of poisonous gas used in the weapons, Mirzaoglu said the gasses with low molecular weight, spread faster than the gasses with high molecular weight.

Stating that those weapons cause huge destruction in the spots where the weapons are blasted, Mirzaoglu said that their effects change according to their nature and their deployment places if those weapons are destroyed in their places.

Mirzaoglu said that there is no need for high technology to produce chemical weapons.

Defining biological weapons, which cause epidemics and mass killings, as ''mortal'', Selcuk University Science and Literature Faculty Department of Biology Assistant Prof. Giyasettin Kasik said that biological weapons would kill in a short time all people living in the city where those weapons are used.

[10] TURKEY-TERRORISM - SEVEN TERRORISTS, ONE SECURITY OFFICIAL KILLED

Emergency Rule Governor's Office said that six separatist terrorists were killed during the operations near Sorik Hill region in Silvan township of southeastern Diyarbakir province and one separatist terrorist was killed in the operation in the rural part of Sason townsip of southeastern Batman province.

Office said that one security official died and one security official was injured during the operations.

Meanwhile, one separatist terrorist surrendered to security forces in southeastern Bingol province.

The operations are underway in the region.

[11] TURKEY-EU (1) - TURKISH-EU JEC MEETING

Defending the outcomes of Luxembourg summit, Van Den Broek said that the EU, for the first time confirmed Turkey's vocation to be a full member in the highest political level, stressing that Turkey was an inseparable part of the EU expansion process. ''Turkey should understand this very well,'' he added.

Van Den Broek who defended that a new strategy was specified in Luxembourg summit to prepare Turkey for EU full membership, and pointed out that strengthening of relations was bound to Turkey and that the EU Commission would bring some new proposals to this aim.

Noting that Ankara's statement that it suspended political dialogue with the EU should not affect dialogue between the European Parliament (EU) and Turkish Parliament, Van Den Broek said ''we are aware of Turkey's importance.''

Van Den Broek said they wanted to talk with Turkey on the full membership of Greek Cypriot side to the EU, adding that yet, this was not possible due to the attitude of Turkey reacting to Luxembourg summit.

Political Affairs Deputy Director Pieter Rickets, who took floor as the representative of the EU Term President Britain's Foreign Secretary Robin Cook said that Britain attributed great importance to Turkish-EU relations and that their target was to improve the relations. Rickets reiterated their call for Turkey to participate in the European Conference which will take place on March 12.

British Representative expressed the concern of the EU Term Presidency over the Russian missiles which would be deployed to Greek Cypriot side and stressed that Administrators of Turkey and Greece should extend efforts to overcome bilateral problems. He said they would extend efforts to make EU to fulfil its responsibilities and to release financial aid to Turkey.

JPC Co-Chairman Bulent Akarcali voiced Turkey's reaction to Luxembourg summit and wanted them to perceive the messages fully sent from Turkey.

Using harsh statements, Akarcali said it was ''inconsiderate'' to bring the documents of Luxembourg summit again by the Commission and the Council, adding that ''more serious approach is needed.''

Akarcali said there was discrimination against Turkey and stressed that the EU failed to fulfil its obligations.

''If Luxembourg Summit causes the distance between Turkey and EU to grow, the EU will be the side who lose in long term,'' Akarcali said, ''Turkey is the sole country who would bring multi-color and multi-voice to the EU.''

Akarcali said, ''it is obvious that Turkey would not be separated from Europe. It is not under the authority, or will, of the EU or any other organization to confirm Turkey's European character. As a result, being a European country, Turkey which takes place in all European institutions except from the EU, will need to review its European policies as it will not be able to enter the EU.''

[12] TURKEY-EU (2) - TURKISH-EU JPC MEETING

Yilmaz said that Turkey realized important law changes and fulfilled most of its obligations and critized that the EU failed to brief Turkey about the negotiations it carried out in several countries. She also pointed out that an effective consultation and cooperation mechanism could not have been set up so far.

Yilmaz said that although Turkish economy, at the end of the second implementation year of customs union, has proved that it may compete in the EU, the foreign trade deficit with the EU increased two times to the benefit of the EU. ''The increase in 1997 has reached to 11 billion dollars and it is expected to rise more,'' she said.

Co-Chairman Pieter Dankert in his part stressed that technical problems concerning customs union issue were extremely important.

The Motherland Party (ANAP) Deputy Sumer Oral noted that there was a discrimination against Turkey in Luxembourg Summit and that they had intervened in Turkey's internal affairs. Pointing out that the promises which were not fulfilled by the EU are now forwarded as new and positive steps, Oral said that Ankara's reaction was right. ''The EU has the responsibility,'' he added.

Oral noted that integration of Turkey and the EU would also be in favor of the EU, adding everybody has to produce ideas which will have positive outcomes.

Dankert in his part said ''may be, Turkey's situation is better than the other candidate countries economically, yet the problems are political.'' He also said, ''Turkey is a part of EU's expansion process. Do not think that you are a target of discrimination. I support Turkey's full membership. We are not isolating Turkey yet time is needed.''

German Socialist Martin Schultz critized EU's attitude that it failed to cover a clear and consistent approach towards Turkey and stressed that ''it should be clearly told Turkey that it would be a full member or not.''

[13] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - HABUR CIVIL ADMINISTRATOR GULDIBI: ''THERE IS NO MIGRATION FROM NORTHERN IRAQ TO OUR BORDERS''

Addressing a statement to A.A correspondent, Guldibi pointed out that the news claming that there is migration from Northern Iraq to Turkey due to Iraq-UN crisis is baseless.

Noting that the situation in Northern Iraqi border region and in Turkey is normal, Guldibi pointed out that the gas oil trade at Habur Border Gate continues normally, 2000 vehicles enter and leave the border gate and approximately 7000 tonnes of gas oil a day are brought to Turkey.

Meanwhile security measures are increased in order to prevent the separatist terrorists infiltrate into Turkey and possible migration from Northern Iraq.

[14] TURKEY-THE BALKANS - FOREING MINISTER CEM: ''A MEETING BY TURKISH AMBASSADORS TO THE BALKANS IN A BALKAN CAPITAL IS PLANNED''

Foreign Minister Cem received Turkish Ambassadors to the Balkans the same day, who came to Turkey on Monday to hold consultation talks.

Cem, in his speech, said that the Balkans is an important aspect of Turkish foreign policy, adding that ''we aim to further improve cooperation with the Balkan socities which we share history.''

Noting that the priorities and demands of Turkey had a very determining place during the Balkan Summit in Crete, Cem stated that a Balkan Foreign Ministers meeting will be held in Istanbul between June 8-9 and a Balkan Summit will be held in October by the participation of Balkan head of states and governments.

[15] TURKEY-AFGHANISTAN - DEMIREL SENDS CONDOLENCES MESSAGE TO AFGHANISTAN

Presidential Press Center said in a written statement that President Demirel presented his condolences to Afghan people who lost their relatives and hoped the injured people will recover.

The statement also noted that Turkey sent humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

[16] TURKEY IN BRIEF (2)- FEBRUARY 10, 1998

Guest delegation was welcomed by Turkish-Georgian Friendship Group Chairman and Motherland Party (ANAP) Artvin Deputy Suleyman Hatinoglu at the Esenboga Airport in Ankara.

The delegation will be received by Parliament Speaker Hikmet Cetin, Transportation Minister Necdet Menzir and Interior Minister Murat Basesgioglu the same day.

The delegation will proceed to Istanbul on Thursday and leave Turkey on Friday.

ANKARA - Turkey and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on Tuesday signed a cooperation agreement in health field.

The agreement was signed by Health Minister Halil Ibrahim Ozsoy on behalf of Turkey and TRNC Health and Environment Minister Ertugrul Hasipoglu on behalf of TRNC.

TRNC Health and Environment Minister Ertugrul Hesipoglu said in the signing ceremony that the Turkish Cypriots had faced with serious health problems between 1963 and 1974.

Pointing out that those problems started to reduce after the ''Cyprus Peace Operation'' and that TRNC reached world standards in health field, Hasipoglu said, ''however, we still have some technical problems. We, as TRNC, get support only from Turkey.''

Hasipoglu said that they will continue that rapid improvement by laying the foundation of a University of Medicine in TRNC.

MOSCOW - Turkish giant beer production company Efes Pilsen prepares itself to enter into Russian beer market of which estimated annual yields is ten billion US dolars as being the first foreign company which invests in that market, it was reported on Tuesday.

Totally 250 million litres of Efes Pilsen beer will be produced annually when the beer factory near Moscow is in service. Efes Pilsen made 130 Million US dollars of investment to that factory whose construction process is continued.

The operation right of the company will be under Efes Pilsen's control while its Russian partner Knyaz Rurik will share ten percent and European Reconstruction and Development Bank will share ten percent of the factory's capital.

Efes Pilsen will start to produce beer in Russia in next January.

[17] TURKEY-US - DTP LEADER CINDORUK RECEIVES US AMBASSADOR TO ANKARA PARRIS - PARRIS: ''THE US POLICY HAS ALWAYS RESPECTED IRAQ'S TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO''

Parris paid a courtesy visit to Democratic Turkey Party (DTP) Leader Husamettin Cindoruk.

Responding to the questions after the meeting, Parris said that the Iraq issue was not on the agenda of the meeting, but Cindoruk and he also took up the issue. Parris said that he conveyed the US's view over Iraq issue to Cindoruk.

DTP Leader Husamettin Cindoruk said after the meeting that Parris's visit was a courtesy visit and that he could not give information about the meeting.

[18] TURKEY-EU (3) - JPC MEETING ENDS - DIALOGUE BETWEEN TURKISH PARLIAMENT AND EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT TO CONTINUE

European Union (EU) Commission's Director of Turkish Desk Eric Van Der Linden gave technical information regarding problems in customs union in the meeting. Linden stressed that the criticism coming from Turkish side concerning this issue is right.

All members of Turkish parliamentary delegation extended support to the government while evaluating the recent situation of Turkish-EU relations.

JPC parliamentarians also took up the Iraqi issue. Democratic Leftist Party (DSP) deputy Mumtaz Soysal said that opening of Turkish bases to foreign powers is difficult due to several reasons, adding that Ankara, which has some kind of a dialogue with Baghdad, tried to persuade Iraqi Head of State Saddam Hussein. He also criticized the fact that several issues were not consulted to Turkey.

Addressing a joint press briefing at the end of JPC meetings with Co- President Pieter Dankert, Co-President Bulent Akarcal� said that the EU Council and Commission are expected to pursue a more satisfying policy in the coming months. Akarcal� stressed that they also expect a realist approach after the end of JPC meetings.

Responding to a question, Akarcal� stressed that 167 firms among 216 firms are from the EU countries which sold biological and chemical weapons to Iraq.

Pieter Dankert said in his part that European Parliament expects the decision of the EU Council regarding the financial aid that will be given to Turkey and can not do anything unless this decision is adopted.

Noting that the issue of participation in European Conference depends on the decision of Turkish government, Dankert pointed out that this conference will lose its meaning if Turkey does not participate in it.

[19] TURKEY-EU (4) - FOREIGN MIINSTER CEM: ''EU CONCEPT SHOULD NOTBE REGARDED AS A PROOF OF TURKEY'S IDENTITY'' - ''AN UNJUST DISCRIMINATION WAS MADE TOWARDS TURKEY IN LUXEMBOURG SUMMIT''

Addressing a conference, Ismail Cem stated that the EU will not be a determining institution for Turkey in 2000's, because Turkey will continue to develop by using its resources.

Cem stressed that the EU can only be an ''effective element'' during this period, if Turkish-EU relations are put on a healthy base and Turkey should analyze itself correctly to this end.

''Turkey is not a country which accepts everything, particularly the things which are contrary to its interests,'' said Cem, adding that Turkey knows its weak points and does not have to prove itself.

Speaking about the Luxembourg Summit, Foreign Minister Cem said that Turkey had a very important place for the first time by its own identity during this summit, yet an unfair discrimination was shown towards Turkey.

''Turkey was kept outside the entrance process to the EU, although there is a difference between 'Agenda 2000' Report and the summit, because the latter did not even include Turkey into 'enlargement process.' However, Turkey was not treated equally with 11 candidate states durign the summit and our government did not accept this,'' said Cem.

Foreign Minister Ismail Cem stressed that EU process is continuing, adding that ''if Turkish-EU relations are wished to improve, then Turkey should be included in the enlargement process.''

[20] TURKEY-NARCOTICS - SECURITY OFFICIALS SEIZE 9.6 KG OF HEROIN IN EASTERN AGRI PROVINCE

Acting on a tip-off, Narcotics officials stopped an automobile driven by Ekrem Keles near Dereci village in Patnos township. Officials seized 9.6 kg of heroin in the hidden departments of the car.

Ekrem Keles and tahsin Keles were taken under custody.

The investigation is underway.

[21] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - SITUATION IN INCIRLIK BASE

Totally 50 fighters including F-15s and F-16s, Tornadoes, EA-6B Prowlers and one KC-15 tanker aircraft took off and landed between 03.00-16.00.

Some of the ''Rapier'' missiles' coverings were opened and the reconstruction works of the taxi-routes, which the aircrafts use to go to the runway, continue in the base.

Officials of the base said that the flights were realized for training purposes, and there was no increase or decrease in the number of personnel and equipments for Northern Watch operation, which monitors the situation in Northern Iraq, due to the crisis in the Gulf.

[22] TURKEY-EU (5) - JPC CO-PRESIDENT AKARCALI: ''TURKEY WISHES IMPLEMENTATION OF INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS AND MECHANISMS''

''First of all Turkey wishes implementation of international agreements and mechanisms,'' said Akarcal�, adding that ''we told EU parliamentarians that if Turkey is wished to keep outside of the EU, then it has to balance its obligations stemming from the customs union, and find a balance between its obligations and rights.''

Deputy Co-President Mumtaz Sosyal, in his part said that ''it has been recognized that European people accepted to a degree that Luxembourg Summit decisions about Turkey were wrong.''

Deputy Co-President Aykon Dogan stated that ''Turkey has fulfilled its obligations stemming from custom union by 80 percent. This has been confirmed by the EU, yet the EU should also fulfil its obligations towards Turkey.''

Ertan Y�lek, member of Turkish delegation, in his part said that ''we are complaining about the double standart of Europe, adding that Greece has recently adopted reforms about moslem minority and this proves that several reforms can be adopted by a country after being a member of EU.''

Ilhan Kesici, member of Turkish delegation, said ''this is not a correct approach. They like us to participate in European Conference, but we do not believe that this will be useful for us.''

Birgen Keles, member of Turkish delegation, described the meetings as ''dissappointing,'' adding that the interest of EU Commission, Council and European Parliament (EP) in Turkey has decreased a lot.

Describing the attitude of EP which extends support to the terrorist organization PKK on purpose or not, as ''unlucky'', Keles added that ''Turkey does not deserve this.''

Turkish parliamentarians left Brussels after JPC meeting ended the same day.

[23] TURKEY-THE BALKANS - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ RECEIVES TURKISH AMBASSADORS TO THE BALKANS - YILMAZ: ''THE BALKANS IS A WINDOW OPENING TO EUROPE FOR TURKEY''

Prime Minister Y�lmaz, said in his speech before receiving Turkish Ambassadors to the Balkans that the Balkan countries are important for Turkey.

Noting that relations with all Balkan countries except Greece are positive, Y�lmaz pointed out that these positive developments are also important in respect of the Balkan cooperation.

''Our Foreign Ministry launches new efforts to improve relations with Greece. We hope progress can be recorded,'' said Y�lmaz, adding that solving problems with Greece will also contribute to further improvement of cooperation among the Balkan countries.

Prime Minister Mesut Y�lmaz stressed that economic cooperation is very important to improve relations with the Balkan countries and in this respect Turkish businessmen have an important role to play.

Deputy Prime Minister and State Minister Bulent Ecevit, who participated in the meeting, in his part said that the relations which have been improved with Bulgaria should be an example for Greece.

Describing the meeting with ambassadors as ''necessary and on time,'' Ecevit added that ''we hope Greece will approach towards Turkey in a more moderate way.''

[24] TURKEY-IRAQ-UN - HUMANITARIAN AID COORDINATION COMMITTEE CONVENES TO DISCUSS SERVICES THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED AFTER A POSSIBLE MILITARY STRIKE

The representatives from Interior, Foreign and Health Ministries, General Staff, Prime Ministry Security Department and General Diractorate of Red Crescent participated in the meeting of the Humanitarian Aid Coordination Committee led by State Minister Sukru Sina Gurel.

Several sub-committees are expected to be set up after the meeting. Those sub-committes will be responsible for the health services, distribution of aid items, and security issues.

The necessary information regarding the meeting will be given by State Minister Gurel on Wednesday.

[25] TURKEY IN BRIEF (3)- FEBRUARY 10, 1998

Foreign Ministry said in a written statement that President Meidani and the accompanying delegation will hold several contacts in Ankara and Istanbul between February 11 and 13.

The statement said that the close relationship and solidarity between Turkey and Albania constitutes an example for regional countries for the protection of peace and stability in the Balkans.

The statement also said that the visit will enable the sides to exchange views in high-level regarding national and regional issues and to further improve the relations.

ANKARA - Pakistani Naval Forces Chief Commander General Parvaiz Mehdi Qureshi on Tuesday came to Ankara as the official guest of Naval Forces Chief Commander General Ilhan Kilic.

Guest Chief Commander Gen. Qureshi met with Naval Forces Chief Commander Gen. Kilic in the Headquarter of Naval Forces Commandership in Ankara.

Gen. Kilic said in the meeting that there had been always a good relationship between Turkey and Pakistan.

Guest General Parvaiz Mehdi Qureshi said that the existing good relations between two countries will continue.

General Parvaiz Mehdi Qureshi will be received by Chief of General Staff General Ismail Hakki Karadayi on Wednesday.

Gen. Karadayi will then reward General Qureshi by ''Turkish Armed Forces Order of Merit''.

Meanwhile, Naval Forces Chief Commander Gen. Ilhan Kilic said that they have no information about an ''immigration wave'' from Northern Iraq yet, adding that the Turkish Armed Forces have taken the necessary measures against a possible immigration wave.

ANKARA - Parliament Speaker Hikmet Cetin received on Tuesday the Georgian- Turkish Interparliamentary Friendship Group headed by Rostom Dolidze.

Parliament Speaker Cetin expressed his sorrow over the assassination attempt against Georgian President Eduard Schevardnadze.

Noting that Turkey appreciates the reforms commenced by Georgia, Cetin said that ''we do not have any problems with Georgia and this shows the friendship, solidarity and brotherhood between the two countries.''

Hikmet Cetin stressed that Turkey attributes great importance to territorial integrity of Georgia.

Rostom Dolidze in his part said that Georgian President Eduard Schevardnadze is fine, as he has not been injured by the assassination attempt.

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