Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-07-05

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AA Daily

05 July 1999 Monday

CONTENTS

[01] FOREIGN MINISTER CEM SAYS THERE WILL BE CONTACTS WITH GREECE ON FIVE SEPARATE ISSUES

[02] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[03] CHIEF JUDGE OKYAY AND DGM MEMBERS RETURNED TO ANKARA - OKYAY: ''WE HAD A VERY FAIR TRIAL. WE APPLIED OUR LAWS''

[04] TURKISH PEACE FORCES IN KOSOVO - DEPLOYMENT OF MILITARY VEHICLES STARTS

[05] ''AGRI MOUNTAIN LEGEND'' AT ISHAK PASA PALACE

[06] FINAL STATEMENT OF 7TH TURKISH WORLD CONVENTION ''WITHOUT ANY DELAY, TURKISH REPUBLICS MUST OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZE TRNC WHICH DECLARED ITS INDEPENDENCE ON NOVEMBER 15 1983''

[07] CAKMAKOGLU, MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENSE: ''TURKEY WILL BE THE LEADER COUNTRY IN ITS REGION AND IN THE WORLD IN THE 21ST CENTURY''

[08] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS CONVENES - ORAL, FINANCE MINISTER: ''I DON'T THINK INCREASE IN SALARIES OF CIVIL SERVANTS WILL BE BROUGHT TO THE AGENDA''

[09] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, DUE IN TURKEY

[10] DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER BAHCELI: - ''57TH GOVERNMENT KNOWS TURKEY'S PROBLEMS AND IS CAPABLE OF BRINGING THEM TO A SOLUTION'' - ''WE WANT TO HELP CIVIL SERVANTS WITH LOW AND FIXED WAGES AND WON'T LET THEM SUFFER FROM INFLATION''

[11] PARLIAMENT SPEAKER AKBULUT MEETS WITH HIS TURKMEN COUNTERPART MURADOV

[12] STATEMENT OF COUNCIL OF MINISTERS - GUREL, MINISTER OF STATE: - ''PRIME MINISTER SENT 24 PRIMARY DRAFT LAWS TO THE PARLIAMENT''

[13] FOREIGN MINISTER CEM HOSTS A LUNCHEON IN HONOUR OF AMBASSADORS OF EU COUNTRIES

[14] A VEHICLE BELONGED TO THE TPAO CRASHES INTO A LANDMINE IN BATMAN - FIVE PEOPLE INCLUDING THREE PRIVATES, INJURED

[15] STATEMENT OF COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

[16] PRESIDENT SHEVARDNADZE OF GEORGIA: - ''NO ONE CAN DAMAGE OUR RELATIONS WITH TURKEY''

[17] CALLIGRAPHY COLLECTION OF SAKIP SABANCI TO BE DISPLAYED IN LOUVRE MUSEUM IN PARIS

[18] GOKALP, AGRUCULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS MINISTER, TO ATTEND ''ROYAL AGRICULTURE FAIR'' IN BRITAIN

[19] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT RECEIVES AMBASSADORS WHO HAVE BEEN APPOINTED TO FOREIGN COUNTRIES

[20] TURKISH-ROMANIAN JEC MEETING - GEMICI, MINISTER OF STATE: ''THE DUTY OF THE GOVERNMENT IS TO CREATE APPROPRIATE BUSINESS ATMOSPHERE FOR INVESTORS AND TO PROMOTE INVESTMENTS''

[21] AMPHIBIOUS TRAININGS BETWEEN TURKEY AND THE NETHERLANDS

[22] KIRBAS, CHAIRMAN OF NATIONAL DEFENSE COMMISSION: ''WORLD COUNTRIES SHOULD LEAVE TURKEY ALONE''

[23] MIRAS, CHAIRMAN OF TOBB, WARNS ITALY - MIRAS SENDS A LETTER TO LONGHI, CHAIRMAN OF ITALIAN INDUSTRY AND AGRICULTURE CHAMBERS UNION, TO PROTEST ITALIAN PARLIAMENT'S MEETING REGARDED WITH OCALAN, THE HEAD OF THE TERRORIST ORGANIZATION PKK

[24] FIRST GROUP OF SECOND CONVOY OF TURKISH PEACE FORCE ARRIVES IN MACEDONIA - THIRD CONVOY TO ARRIVE IN BULGARIA LATER TODAY

[25] EXPLOSION IN SOUTHEASTERN BATMAN PROVINCE - DRIVER OF TPAO VEHICLE DIES

[01] FOREIGN MINISTER CEM SAYS THERE WILL BE CONTACTS WITH GREECE ON FIVE SEPARATE ISSUES

Foreign Ministers of 12 countries discussed what could be done for the future of Kosovo, and how to restructure its politics, administration, and economy at the meeting which was very helpful, Cem stated. They aim to include Turkey in the decision processes as much as they could and the meeting in New York helped this purpose, he told reporters in Esenboga airport.

''Kosovo, as I always say, is a sensitive issue for Turkey and we are trying to take part in Kosovo's economic restructuring. A total of 18 billion US dollars are needed for investments in Kosovo. The country will be rebuilt and we want Turkey to take part in this process,'' the Foreign Minister said.

The war has been won, but the difficult part is to maintain peace, he noted and continued:

''Political restructuring is very important when we talk about maintaining peace. Kosovo mustn't be drifted to ethnical divisions. We are concerned about Kosovar Albanians and Turks with whom we share a common history. We estimate 60 thousand Turks living in Kosovo and we started to work to help them take part in democratization process, politics and the constitution.''

Concerning his talks and previous correspondence with the Greek Foreign Minister Yorgo Papandreu, Cem stressed that a dialogue with Greece was possible only if the terrorism issue was revealed. He reminded that Turkey had agreements signed with many countries against terrorism and emphasized that Greece must also sign such an agreement as the first step.

''The Greek Foreign Minister, in his written reply, said they could sign bilateral and multilateral agreements on terrorism related issuses, tourism, protection of environment, regional cooperation, and trade. The Turkish and Greek foreign ministries will hold taks and we will see if we could go further. We expect that this will take place in July,'' Cem said.

The Foreign Minister pointed out that Greece carried out its relations with Turkey ''very badly'' in the recent years and said ''If Greece gives up its hostile attitude towards Turkey, it will be for the benefit of both countries to turn to healthy, realistic, cautious, but good relations.''

He and the UN General Secretary Kofi Annan had a wide discussion on Kosovo, Iraq, and Cyprus, Cem noted. ''I explained to Annan that Turkey finds it right to suspend the economic sanctions on Iraq temporarily and with conditions,'' Cem stated. Turkey's counterpart is Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the TRNC President Rauf Denktas on the issue of Cyprus, the proposal of G-8 countries does nothing, but makes the issue more complicated and causes new threats in the East Mediterranean, he also explained to Annan.

''While the world is trying to prevent an ethnic cleansing in Kosovo, it should not create new Kosovos in Cyprus,'' Cem concluded.

[02] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL)

TGSD:''DON'T FORGET BOYCOTT DAYS, ITALY''
Turkish government started sending warning letters to Italian government which is focused on the death penalty given to the terrorist chief Ocalan. Turkish Clothing Industrialists Association (TGSD) who earlier sent a file composed of Ocalan's murders to Italian Clothing Industrialists Association, sent a protest letter to Italian Textile Industrialists Association and Chairmen of Eurotex. The letter of Bulent Atuk, the TGSD Chairman asked Italian businessmen in textile business to warn their government for a more constructive policy towards Turkey. The letter also said the trade relations between Turkey and Italy might suffer from another crisis as a result of the inappropriate attitude of the Italian government.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

Kosovo Salvation Army soldiers could not control ten thousands of elderly people, and children who filled the roads.

REASONED VERDICT TO BECOME A BOOK
The Chief Judge Turgut Okyay who tried Abdullah Ocalan, the head of the terrorist organization, said the reasoned verdict related with the case was ready and will be published as a book. Okyay and members of Ankara State Security Court (DGM) no:2, returned to Ankara on Sunday.

SABAH (LIBERAL)

LET'S SAVE 2000
Ceylan Pirinccioglu, the Executive Board Chairman of VIP Tourims said tourism will slightly recover in July and August but this will not suffice to save this year. ''Now, we must work for 2000,'' Pirinccioglu stated. ''There is a six percent increase in the number of American tourists. This mustn't be ignored. We could increase this trend. There is a big potential in the US. They will celebrate Christ's 2000th birthday in 2000 which is a very important event for the Christian world. Christianity was not born in Anatolia but spread in Cappadocia, Pirinccioglu said and stressed that Turkey must benefit from this opportunity.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

TURKISH CONVENTION ENDS
Turkish States and Communities Friendship, Brotherhood and Cooperation Convention ended after a final statement is issued. The Convention lasted for three days in Pamukkale county of Denizli province. The final statement of the Convention said ''anything, that is not build on science will be unfounded.'' In the final statement the sides decided to improve '' the exchange of students'' project between Turkish states and communities.

RADIKAL (LEFT)

BLAST IN PICNIC SITE IN ISTANBUL
One person was killed and 27 were injured at a blast which occured in a picnic site in Istanbul's Avcilar district late Sunday night. A bomb left in a garbage can caused the explosion. Ten of the injured were reported to be in serious condition. Erol Cakir, the Governor later came to the scene for investigations.

T�RK�YE (RIGHT)

PKK VIOLENCE IN PICNIC
Bomb planted in a garbage can exploded killing one person and wounding 30 others. Ozdemir, the Istanbul Security Chief, arrived at the spot immediately after the exposion. The wounded ones said: ''we were having a picnic. An explosion occured at a place where a group of people were having picnic.''

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

Devlet Bahceli, the Deputy Prime Minister, addressing the closing session, said ''we should evaluate historical opportunities well.''

[03] CHIEF JUDGE OKYAY AND DGM MEMBERS RETURNED TO ANKARA - OKYAY: ''WE HAD A VERY FAIR TRIAL. WE APPLIED OUR LAWS''

The Chief Judge Okyay and members of the court delegation Huseyin Eken and Mehmet Maras returned to Ankara. Responding to the questions of reporters, Okyay said ''there is nothing to evaluate. We have concluded the trial.''

When recalled the reaction of European countries to the decision of the court, Okyay said ''it may be. It is not important. We had a very fair trial. We have applied our laws.''

Responding to a question if they prepared the reasoned verdict, Okyay said, ''reasoned verdict is ready. It is composed of 90 pages. It is 280 pages together with the names of the intervenors. We had to write the names of intervenors. Yet, the main section is 90 pages.''

Noting that they have prepared the reasoned verdict in four days, Okyay said the reasoned verdict will be published as a book.

[04] TURKISH PEACE FORCES IN KOSOVO - DEPLOYMENT OF MILITARY VEHICLES STARTS

Turkish peace forces will use former Drateks textile factory, which is near Dragas village that is on the Gagas Mountain in Macedonia border, as the base. First convoy of Turkish Peace Forces started to detect mines and make environmental arrangements.

Some units of Turkish Peace Forces will later leave for Momusa, after all the military vehicles and personnel gather in Drateks.

Mehmet Ali Erdogan, Brigadier General who led the transfer of first convoy of Turkish unit, told A.A correspondent that the vehicles will return to the border to take the second convoy.

Erdogan said, ''we will deploy several elements to Momusa within 4-5 days. Half of the unit will be here and half will be Momusa.''

[05] ''AGRI MOUNTAIN LEGEND'' AT ISHAK PASA PALACE

The State Minister Yuksel Yalova who spoke before the opera, stated that they already started to work for the organization of ''Noah 2000 International Agri Festival'' which will take place next year.

Cetin Isikozlu composed ''Agri Mountain Legend'' which was played by the Georgian Symphony Orchestra of 90 musicians. The Azerbaijani Philarmony Chorus of 75 singers accompanied the orchestra. Imanova Gulbaci directed the chorus.

Cuneyt Gokcer, soprano Gulsen Hafizoglu, bariton Sahmardan Adilof, tenor Hakan Aysev, bass Huseyin Muhtarov took part in the three stage opera.

Yuksel Yalova, and Edip Safter Gaydali, the State Ministers; Erkan Mumcu, the Minister of Tourism; Thomas Loheek, the Ambassador of South Africa; Fehim Guler, the Commander of 1st Mechanized Brigade; Agri deputies, and many citizens watched the opera.

[06] FINAL STATEMENT OF 7TH TURKISH WORLD CONVENTION ''WITHOUT ANY DELAY, TURKISH REPUBLICS MUST OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZE TRNC WHICH DECLARED ITS INDEPENDENCE ON NOVEMBER 15 1983''

It was said that anything that is not build on science will be ''false'', therefore it was decided to focus on education and training and develop student exchange programmes among Turkish states. The Turkish states and communities must adopt a common alphabet, it was also noted. The final statement pointed out that a ''Turkish World Science and Culture Academy'' must be founded to study, protect, and develop Turkish language, culture, and art. A Scientific Data Bank will be among the primary targets of this Academy. The young population in Turkish communities which cover a wide area from Adriatic to the Chinese Wall is a big potential, it was stressed. It was also agreed at the Convention that a national education policy must be followed and preminent personalities of the Turkish world must be taught to young people.

''A unity of law must be created to develop economic, social, and cultural cooperation among Turkish states. It was decided to set up civilian Turkish Law Institutes in every country for professional solidarity and comparative studies. It was also agreed to form a Turkish World Human Rights Violations Follow up Committee to watch the human rights violations in the Turkish world.''

The statement stressed that transportation and communication infrastructure must be suitable for the rapid development of economic and trade relations amont Turkey and Turkish republics. The Kars-Tiflis railroad must be completed, Turkey must connect to the Central Assian Turkish republics via Tiflis-Baku, land and air transportation must be supported, and Turkey must be integrated in the telecommunication network, the statement said.

''The activities regarding the marketing of the Caspian oil and natural gas to the world through Turkey must be finalized soon,'' it was stated.

Turkish World Capital Fund, and Turkish Development Bank must be urgently established for the coordination and financement of investments that will be made in Turkish Republics and to provide the required foreign capital financement.

It was reminded that some industrial facilities and hotels which were built by Turkish firms were confiscated in some Turkish Republics and said that an Arbitration Council must be set up to maintain a reliable environment for investments and trade activities in Turkish Republics. The Arbitration Council need to be approved by these countries' parliaments.

The statement described the decision of G-8 countries as ''a development which supports the adventureous policies of the Greek side on the island threatening peace and stability both on the Island and in the region''. The statement stated that the G-8's decision totally ignores the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and described the attempt as an attack against the rights and liberties of the Turkish Cypriots. The Statement asked for total support of Turkish Republics.

A text was prepared to be presented to the Presidents of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. ''The Turkish World which covers 11 million kilometer squares and is formed by 250 million people, without any delay must officially recognize the TRNC which declared its independence on November 15, 1983,'' the statement emphasized.

Devlet Bahceli, the State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister presented a hand made walking stick and a plate to TRNC Prime Minister Dervis Eroglu, and to the representatives of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan.

[07] CAKMAKOGLU, MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENSE: ''TURKEY WILL BE THE LEADER COUNTRY IN ITS REGION AND IN THE WORLD IN THE 21ST CENTURY''

Cakmakoglu, who is currently on a visit to central Anatolian Nevsehir province, said 57th government tried to solve the problems of the country.

Recalling that they have issued the budget and the banking law in a very short period, Cakmakoglu said ''the parliament will not recess till the laws which are urgent for the country are issued.''

Cakmakoglu pointed out that the government has taken important steps on the issue of terrorism, adding that struggle against terrorism will be carried out in the same line.

Pointing out that they expend efforts to implement plans and projects for the development of Turkey, Cakmakoglu said ''our target is to take place among developed 15 countries in the 21st century. This is the belief which lies in the basis of our studies. Turkey will be the leader country in its region and in the world in the 21st century.''

[08] COUNCIL OF MINISTERS CONVENES - ORAL, FINANCE MINISTER: ''I DON'T THINK INCREASE IN SALARIES OF CIVIL SERVANTS WILL BE BROUGHT TO THE AGENDA''

Various internal and external problems will be discussed during the meeting which takes place in Premiership building.

Edip Safter Gaydali, the Minister of State; Osman Durmus, the Minister of Health; Husnu Yusuf Gokalp, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs; and Hasan Gemici, the Minister of State, have not participated in the meeting due to several reasons.

Meanwhile, Sumer Oral, the Minister of Finance, responding to a question of reporters said he did not think the increase in the salaries of the civil servants will be brought to the agenda of the Council of Ministers.

[09] CONSTANTINESCU, ROMANIAN PRESIDENT, DUE IN TURKEY

The two countries will sign agreements and Constantinescu is expected to receive Parliament Speaker Yildirim Akbulut, Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, and Deputy Prime Minister Devlet Bahceli during the visit.

Constantinescu will participate in a conference together with President Suleyman Demirel. Constantinescu will make a speech titled ''Turkish- Romanian Relations'' in the conference which is staged by the Foreign Policy Institute.

On the second day of his visit, Constantinescu will proceed to Istanbul together with President Suleyman Demirel. Romanian President is expected to depart Istanbul on Wednesday evening after concluding his contacts.

[10] DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER BAHCELI: - ''57TH GOVERNMENT KNOWS TURKEY'S PROBLEMS AND IS CAPABLE OF BRINGING THEM TO A SOLUTION'' - ''WE WANT TO HELP CIVIL SERVANTS WITH LOW AND FIXED WAGES AND WON'T LET THEM SUFFER FROM INFLATION''

Bahceli visited Veysel Akansel, the Bozkurt Mayor in his office before he addressed to the crowd who gathered in front of the National Movement Party (MHP) branch office.

The election results put a lot of responsibility on the MHP's shoulders and his party is aware of this, Bahceli pointed out.

The three coalition partners act with ''first my country, then my party'' principle, therefore the road to serve the nation opened, the MHP leader said and assured people that the 57th government was capable of providing political stability and bringing Turkey's problems to a solution.

''The government and the opposition must be in good relations. It has become obvious that we can't reach anywhere through fighting. The cooperation and solidarity will help to solve Turkey's major problems and carry out fundamental reforms. The two month studies of the Parliament proved this right,'' Bahceli continued.

People know very well what problems Turkey is suffering from, Bahceli noted and added that Turkey was in a financial bottleneck, the poverty became widespread, the inbalances in incomes grew, and the production almost stopped, the MHP leader said and reminded that many factory workers lost their jobs.

''We want to help the civil servants with low income as much as the budget permits. We must be realistic. Noone has the right to deceive you. You should know that we will do whatever needs to be done. We started with the social security reform. There are many more that need to be done. The indications show that the government will be permanent, harmonious, and long lasting,'' Bahceli said.

[11] PARLIAMENT SPEAKER AKBULUT MEETS WITH HIS TURKMEN COUNTERPART MURADOV

Addressing the meeting Akbulut expressed pleasure over the visit of Muradov and noted that there were relations between the two countries stemming from history. Akbulut said relations between the two countries were strengthened with the agreements in the fields of economy, trade, culture and education.

''We are two nations from the same roots. Our language and historical values are same'' said Akbulut, recalling that Turkmenbasi, Turkmen President defined this as saying ''one nation, two states.''

Akbulut said ''this visit will further strengthen relations between the Parliaments of the two countries.''

Muradov, Turkmen Parliament Speaker, stressed that relations between the two countries have further improved after they gained their independence, and recalled that Turkey was the first country who recognized their independence.

Muradov stated that Turkmenbasi paid his first visit to Turkey, adding that Turgut Ozal, defunct President, was the first President who visited Turkmenistan.

Noting that relations between the two countries were further improved since that time, Muradov said investments of Turkish businessmen in Turkmenistan also strengthened the relations. Muradov later invited Akbulut to Turkmenistan.

[12] STATEMENT OF COUNCIL OF MINISTERS - GUREL, MINISTER OF STATE: - ''PRIME MINISTER SENT 24 PRIMARY DRAFT LAWS TO THE PARLIAMENT''

Speaking to reporters following Council of Ministers meeting, Gurel said Prime Minister Ecevit briefed about the draft resolutions that will be submitted to the Parliament, and listened to the views of members of Council of Ministers.

Gurel said, ''Later, within the framework of studies which the Parliament will carry out quickly, it was thought that studies related with international agreements, organized crimes, laws related with struggle against terrorism and Arbitration law, may be initiated.''

''It was also decided to give priority to the draft laws concerning establishment of the National Accreditation Council that can be easily discussed because it is a technical study and it is related with our international obligations,'' he noted.

Gurel told reporters that Sadi Somuncuoglu, Mehmet Kececiler and Mehmet Ali Irtemcelik, State Ministers, Enis Oksuz, Transportation Minister, and Sumer Oral, Finance Minister, gave information about their ministries at the meeting.

Gurel said, ''Mr. Irtemcelik informed the Council of Ministers about the draft laws which can overcome the difficulties in the application of the human rights. These are draft laws which have already been prepared during the 55th government period. Unfortunately they were out of date. Revival of them is in question again. There is a draft law envisaging changes in several articles of the Turkish Penal Code, and another one foreseeing change in one article of the Criminal Trial Procedure Law (CMUK). There is also a draft law regarded with the trial of civil servants and other public workers. And there are draft laws envisaging change in legal interest and obduracy interest, and another one to meet the damages of the terrorism and struggle against terrorism.''

Sukru Sina Gurel also added that Prime Minister Ecevit has sent 24 draft laws which have priority, to the parliament.

[13] FOREIGN MINISTER CEM HOSTS A LUNCHEON IN HONOUR OF AMBASSADORS OF EU COUNTRIES

Karen Pamela Fogg, EU's Representative to Turkey; Hans-Joachim Vergau, German Ambassador to Turkey; Jesus Atienza, Spanish Ambassador to Turkey; Jose Stichini, Portuguese Ambassador to Turkey;

Alexis Brouhns, Belgian Ambassador to Turkey; Ralph Scheide, Austrian Ambassador to Turkey; Bj�rn Ekblom, Finnish Ambassador to Turkey;

Henrik Liljegren, Swedish Ambassador to Turkey; Antoin Mac Unfraidh, Irish Ambassador to Turkey; Jean-Claude Cousseran, French Ambassador to Turkey; Sjoerd I.E. Gosses, Dutch Ambassador to Turkey; and

Yannis Korandis, Greek Ambassador to Turkey, were in attendance at the luncheon.

Representatives of Britain, Italy and Denmark also partook in the luncheon where Korkmaz Haktanir, Undersecretary of Foreign Ministry, and Faruk Logoglu and Uluc Ozulker, Deputy Undersecretaries of Foreign Ministry were also in attendance.

[14] A VEHICLE BELONGED TO THE TPAO CRASHES INTO A LANDMINE IN BATMAN - FIVE PEOPLE INCLUDING THREE PRIVATES, INJURED

Officials told the A.A correspondent that a group of terrorists opened fire on the Garzan Petroleum Camp overnight, and in the wake of the attack, a team was sent to the area to examine the damage.

But the vehicle carrying the team, crashed into a landmine which was planted by terrorists.

Ertugrul Iseri, driver of the vehicle, Mehmet Adak, a TPAO off�c�als, and three privates whose names could not be determined yet, were injured in the attack.

The injured people were taken to the hospital for medical treatment.

[15] STATEMENT OF COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

Addressing journalists at the end of the Council of Ministers meeting which lasted one hour and 40 minutes, Gurel said Prime Minister Ecevit briefed about the draft resolutions that will be submitted to the Parliament, and listened to the views of members of Council of Ministers.

Gurel said, ''Sadi Somuncuoglu, State Minister, informed the Council of Ministers about his visit to Bosnia-Herzegovina. This country has concluded many projects with Turkey's donations and loans since the 55th government period. Mr. Somuncuoglu held significant contacts in Bosnia-Herzegovina.''

''At the meeting, Sumer Oral, the Finance Minister, also gave information about studies of his ministry. Meanwhile, Mehmet Kececiler, the State Minister, who attended the 26th meeting of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) in Ouagadougo, the capital city of Burkina Faso, informed the Council of Ministers about his contacts. The Council of Ministers welcomed the positive results of the meeting. At the OIC meeting where the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) also attended, a decision, extending support to rightful case of Turkish Cypriot people was also adopted. With this decision, Foreign Ministers of Islam countries, called on the sides on Cyprus to recognize the equal status of each other, and mentioned about the importance of negotiations under the equal status in order to find a solution to Cyprus question. The Ministers also welcomed the confederation proposal of TRNC President Rauf Denktas, dated August 31, 1998,'' Gurel said.

Gurel added, ''Enis Oksuz, the Transportation Minister, informed tha Board of Ministers about relations with Georgia. Joint works with Georgia will be maintained in the field of transportation.''

Pointing out that Mehmet Ali Irtemcelik, the Minister of State, briefed the Council of Ministers regarding the studies of his ministry, adding that Irtemcelik gave information about the draft laws which will overcome the basic problems in human rights and that will relieve Turkey in the international arena to this end.

Gurel said several draft laws which were prepared earlier had become out of date, and noted that reviewing of these draft laws was in question. Pointing out that there were several drafts which envisage making changes in an Article of Criminal Trial Procedure Law (CMUK), Gurel said there was a separate draft law regarding the trial of civil servants and other public officials.

Gurel said there were draft laws to compensate the losses which stemmed from the terrorism and the struggle against terrorism. Gurel said:

''As a result, it has been decided to hold a preliminary study about the draft law under the coordination of Irtemcelik, and with the participation of Minister of State responsible for Treasury, and Finance, Foreign, National Defense and Justice Ministers.''

Responding to the questions of reporters, Gurel said increase in the salaries of the civil servants was not brought to the agenda.

[16] PRESIDENT SHEVARDNADZE OF GEORGIA: - ''NO ONE CAN DAMAGE OUR RELATIONS WITH TURKEY''

Addressing a press conference, President Shevardnadze mentioned the recent demonstrations in Georgian capital Tbilisi held by the supporters of terrorist organization PKK, and stressed that no one can damage the friendship between the two countries.

Pointing out that stability should be provided in Caucasia to put the Silk Road project into practice, President Shevardnadze told reporters that the Baku-Ceyhan oil pipeline project can become operational in 2004.

[17] CALLIGRAPHY COLLECTION OF SAKIP SABANCI TO BE DISPLAYED IN LOUVRE MUSEUM IN PARIS

Mr. Sabanci will come together with Pierre Rosenberg, Director of Louvre Museum on July 7 to discuss the details of the exhibition. The collection was displayed in the New York Metropolitan and the Los Angeles Art Museums in 1998 and 1999.

A total of 71 samples of the calligraphy belonged to the period between 15th century and 20th century, will be displayed in the Louvre Museum.

Meanwhile, three oil paintings reflecting the characteristics of the period are also take part among the works.

[18] GOKALP, AGRUCULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS MINISTER, TO ATTEND ''ROYAL AGRICULTURE FAIR'' IN BRITAIN

Gokalp and accompanying delegation including Dr. Kemal Sandik, Director General of Agricultural Products, will make observations in the fair in Stratford.

Gokalp is scheduled to come together with Lord Rea, Chairman of the Inter- parties Parliamentary Commission, at a luncheon on Wednesday. He is also expected to meet with Brian Wilson, British Secretary of Trade.

Gokalp and accompanying delegation are expected to conclude their contacts in Britain, and return to Turkey on July 8.

[19] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT RECEIVES AMBASSADORS WHO HAVE BEEN APPOINTED TO FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Ugurtan Akinci, new Ambassador to Spain; Kaya Inal, new Ambassador to Vietnam; Can Altan, new Ambassador to Democratic Republic of Congo; Cinar Aldemir, new Ambassador to Kazakhstan;

Koray Targay, new Ambassador to Malaysia; Atilla Uzer, new Ambassador to Algeria; Oguz Ozge, new Ambassador to Moldovia; Oya Inkaya, Turkish Permanent Representative to the International Civilian Aviation Organization; and Ahmet Uzumcu, new Ambassador to Israel, were in attendance at the meeting.

Devlet Bahceli, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State, is also expected to receive the Ambassadors.

[20] TURKISH-ROMANIAN JEC MEETING - GEMICI, MINISTER OF STATE: ''THE DUTY OF THE GOVERNMENT IS TO CREATE APPROPRIATE BUSINESS ATMOSPHERE FOR INVESTORS AND TO PROMOTE INVESTMENTS''

Addressing the opening of Turkish-Romanian Joint Commission (JEC) 19th Term Meetings, Gemici said the global crisis which erupted in the second half of 1997 required improvement of a more effective cooperation and economic relations.

Gemici said ''in parallel to this, the development of economic relations between Turkey and Romania is important, and the Free Trade Agreement signed between the two countries facilitated trade.''

Gemici also said the trade will be free between Turkey, Romania, and Bulgaria in the year 2002 within the framework of commitments stemming from multilateral and bilateral trade agreements which Turkey and Romania are the signatories.

Evaluating the trade volume, Gemici said the trade volume increased 7.8 percent to 812 million U.S. dollars in 1998.

Meanwhile, Radu Beceanu, the Romanian Trade and Industry, said Turkey was an important trade partner for Romania, adding that ''both of these countries should support exportation for the improvement of economic and trade relations and importation should not be limited.''

[21] AMPHIBIOUS TRAININGS BETWEEN TURKEY AND THE NETHERLANDS

The General Staff Naval Forces Commandership General Secreratiat told a statement that amphibious trainings are performed between the Naval Forces of the two countries every year within the context of bilateral relations between Turkey and the Netherlands.

The statement said four officers, six non-commissioned officers and five expert soldiers from Turkish Naval Forces participate in the amphibious trainings which will be performed till July 11.

[22] KIRBAS, CHAIRMAN OF NATIONAL DEFENSE COMMISSION: ''WORLD COUNTRIES SHOULD LEAVE TURKEY ALONE''

Speaking to journalists, Kirbas said several countries tried to impose pressure on Turkey when capital punishment decision was given at the end of the trial.

''The Appeals Court will examine the file and will take a decision. Later, this decision will come to the Parliament. The Parliament is obliged to do what social conscience wants or orders. If it is decided for execution in accordance with the conscience, the state will abide by this, and the punishment will be carried out. Of course all these issues will be discussed in the Parliament,'' he said.

[23] MIRAS, CHAIRMAN OF TOBB, WARNS ITALY - MIRAS SENDS A LETTER TO LONGHI, CHAIRMAN OF ITALIAN INDUSTRY AND AGRICULTURE CHAMBERS UNION, TO PROTEST ITALIAN PARLIAMENT'S MEETING REGARDED WITH OCALAN, THE HEAD OF THE TERRORIST ORGANIZATION PKK

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

Noting that he has learnt with deep regret that the Italian Parliament will hold a extraordinary meeting for Ocalan whose terrorist identity was confirmed in the international level, Miras said, ''Trial process of Ocalan continues in Turkey, and Turkey's independent jurisdiction will give the fairest verdict about him. I want to emphasize that pressures on the issue will not have an effect on Turkey.''

''Political protection of a terrorist can be inadmissible. We expect Italy not to make another mistake similar to the prior ones.

We want to further improve political, commercial and economic relations with our ally Italy. I am quite sure that you share the similar thouhgts with me. Your efforts to explain Turkish business circles' sensivity over the issue to your government and Italian business circles, will make a considerable contribution to the solution of the problems,'' Miras added.

[24] FIRST GROUP OF SECOND CONVOY OF TURKISH PEACE FORCE ARRIVES IN MACEDONIA - THIRD CONVOY TO ARRIVE IN BULGARIA LATER TODAY

Colonel Kemal Altinbay, the Military Attache of Turkish Embassy in Skopje, welcomed the Turkish soldiers.

The second group of second convoy is expected to arrive in Macedonia later today.

Meanwhile, first group of third convoy is expected to enter into Bulgaria from the Kapikule Border Gate at about 15.30 local time on Monday. The second group of third convoy will also arrive in Bulgaria at 19.30 local time.

[25] EXPLOSION IN SOUTHEASTERN BATMAN PROVINCE - DRIVER OF TPAO VEHICLE DIES

Iseri, who was an expert on defense and the driver of the vehicle, was taken under treatment in a private hospital in Batman after he got injured due to the explosion of the landmines but could not be saved despite all the efforts.

Officials told A.A correspondent that a group of terrorists opened fire on the Garzan Petroleum Camp overnight, and in the wake of the attack, a team was sent to the area to examine the damage.

But the vehicle carrying the team, hit into a landmine which was planted by terrorists.

Ertugrul Iseri, driver of the vehicle, Mehmet Adak, a TPAO off�c�al, and three privates whose names could not be determined yet, were injured in the attack.

Adak and three privates are still under treatment.

A.A

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