Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-11-15

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[01] AA Daily

15 November 1999 Monday

[02] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[03] These are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in Turkey's press on November 15, 1999. The Anadolu Ajansi does not verify these stories and does not vouch for their occuracy.

[04] HURRIYET (LIBERAL) - ---------------- LAKE BURNED An incredible scene occurred after the quake in Duzce county, with a preliminary magnitude of 7.2. Efteni Lake in Golyaka county of Bolu province began to burn. A strange scene was seen when a blaze occurred on the lake. This happened because natural gas that passes underground burned and surface of the lake was covered with blazes.

[05] 349 DEATHS, 2,386 INJURIES Premiership Crisis Management Center announced the death toll as 349, and number of injured ones as 2,386 as of 12:00 local time on Sunday. Crisis Center said Sikorsky helicopters were sent to the region. Gendarme General Commandership started works with 2,103 people.

[06] MILLIYET (LIBERAL) - ----------------- REPORT QUAKE While Istanbul is waiting cautiously, the results of the Sismik-1 vessel's researches are not announced. Cengiz Atak, the General Director of the Mineral Research and Administration Institute, said, ''we presented the data about the underground of the Marmara Sea collected by the Sismik-1 to the Istanbul Technical University on October 1. This data will give answers to the questions like 'Was there a discharge of energy? Is there an accumulation of stress?' However, 45 days passed and the university couldn't announce the results.''

[07] STRENGTHEN YOUR HOME Public Works and Housing Minister Koray Aydin made a call to the residents of Istanbul saying, ''temporary control- counsellor licence was given to 500 engineering offices in Istanbul. Apply to these offices and have the resistance of your houses measured. Receive their advices for consolidation projects.''

[08] IRELAND COMES TOGETHER WITH A PRIEST The Irish people were shocked when Ireland drew Turkey 1-1 in the European Soccer Championship play-offs first leg in Dublin. A priest is accompanying the Irish team to wish them good luck in the second leg in Bursa with his prays.

[09] SABAH (LIBERAL) - --------------- QUAKE REGION TO BE RAINY FOR ONE WEEK Heavy rainstorm will start in Bolu, Duzce, Istanbul, Sakarya, Yalova, Zonguldak and Kocaeli. The rain will last for one week. It will snow from time to time in Bolu and surrounding regions.

[10] FIRSTLY MINERS ARRIVED Miners of Zonguldak rushed to the help of Duzce, and rescued many people with a conscious and disciplined work. They are heros. Those people who pass their lives in mines under the ground know very well what darkness means. They immediately rushed for the help as they heard the news of quake.

[11] CUMHURIYET (LEFT) - ---------------- HOPES FADE Quake survivors who gather around the fire at nights, participate in rescue efforts with the first lights of morning. Rescue teams exert great efforts to save the people who were trapped under the rubble. Every living person they could reach, make the teams very happy, who work under hard conditions.

[12] MARMARA SCENERIOS Dr. Ali Pinar, who addressed a news conference staged in Kandilli Observatory Institute, said August 17 quake activated 200 km system. Pinar pointed out that if the faults in Marmara Sea are broken with one quake, a quake with a preliminary magnitude of 7 may occur. If the faults are broken separately, the magnitude of the quake will be 6- 6.5, Pinar noted.

[13] RADIKAL (LEFT) - ------------- TO WHOM WE WILL BELIEVE IN Different estimations about the expected quake make us uneasy. Scientists can not reach a compromise about the magnitude of the expected quake in Istanbul. Kandilli Observatory said possibility of quake in Sapanca-Akyazi increased, yet noted its preliminary magnitude will not be more than 6. Despite this, residents of Akyazi and Sapanca prefer to sleep in the streets.

[14] WELCOME CLINTON Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, arrived in Ankara on Sunday within the scope of his tour to Eastern Mediterranean. Bill Clinton will stay in Turkey for five days with his 800-people team. Clinton will address parliament on Monday, and meet with President Demirel and Prime Minister Ecevit. The U.S. President will put pressure to sign Baku-Ceyhan pipeline Agreement in Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) summit.

[15] TURKIYE (RIGHT) - --------------- CLINTON IN PARLIAMENT The U.S. President Bill Clinton arrived in Turkey for a five-day official visit. His plane arrived at Ankara's Esenboga Airport 23:45 local time. President Suleyman Demirel and Foreign Minister Ismail Cem welcomed him at the Aiport. Clinton will arrive at the Parliament at 14:30 local time and make his historical speech. Clinton will attend Organization for Security and Cooperation in Euroep (OSCE) summit on November 17-18.

[16] TURKEY SUPPORTS TRNC General H. Edip Baser, Deputy Chief of General Staff, said any solution that fails to accept existence of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) state on Cyprus as a fact, can not be successful. He said Turkey always supported TRNC, and will continue to do so. Rauf Denktas, President of TRNC, thanked to Gen. Baser who arrived in Cyprus to celebrate 16th anniversary of the foundation of TRNC.

[17] ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE) - ------------------ SCIENTISTS WARN FOR ISTANBUL Inhabitants of Istanbul felt uneasy over the statements of scientists for a probable quake. Citizens of Istanbul wait for measures to be taken before quake hits this region. Kandilli Observatory said they expect a quake to occur in Istanbul and Sapanca, yet noted that they can not say anything about the time of it. Officials of the observatory pointed out that they expect a mild quake in Sapanca.

[18] IMPORTANT QUEST Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, arrived in Ankara. Signatures will be put to historical decisions for Turkey. An army protects Clinton, who will visit quake region. Important decisions about Europe, Middle East, Caucasia, and Central Asia will be discussed together with Turkey, which is the key country of the region. It was also reported that contacts of Clinton with the representatives of non-governmental organizations were cancelled.

[19] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT: ''U.N. RETURNS TO FORMER FORMAT, I AM GOING TO NEW YORK''

[20] LEFKOSA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Rauf Denktas, the President of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), said on Monday that the U.N. General Secretariat returned to the format, which was agreed on earlier about indirect talks, and noted that he will attend indirect talks that will take place in New York on December 3. TRNC President Denktas told A.A. correspondent that they were disappointed over the first two texts of the U.N. about indirect talks. Denktas said ''as a result of our insistency and with the strong support of Turkey, they have returned to the original text which was earlier agreed on.'' Stressing that everybody should understand that a progress can be recorded in Cyprus only in the basis of full equality, Denktas said ''within the framework of this understanding and by basing on the latest statement of the U.N. Secretary General, we will go to New York on December 3 for indirect talks.''

[21] TRNC IS 16-YEARS OLD - PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION, AZERI CULTURE MINISTER, AND OTHER FOREIGN DELEGATIONS ARRIVE IN TRNC

[22] LEFKOSA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Arrival of foreign delegations continue to participate in activities to celebrate 16th anniversary of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Parliamentarians who will represent the Grand National Assembly, arrived in TRNC on Sunday. Polat Bulbuloglu, Azeri Culture Minister, arrived in TRNC, to participate in the activities to celebrate 16th anniversary of TRNC. Bulbuloglu said they wanted to share the happiness of Turkish Cypriots. Arrival of foreign delegation continues. South Korea, South Africa, and Belarus delegation arrived in TRNC on Sunday, and delegations of Argentina, the U.S., Bulgaria, Denmark, and Vietnam are expected to arrive on Monday. Meanwhile, senior Turkish officials issued messages, and congratulated 16th anniversary of the foundation of TRNC.

[23] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''DEATH TOLL RISES TO 349''

[24] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on Sunday that death toll increased to 349, and number of injuries increased to 2,386 after the quake in Duzce. Ecevit said new temporary dwelling needs will erupt with this quake. Speaking to reporters, Ecevit said he hoped new records will not be added to this number. When recalled the statements saying that quake risk was high in Istanbul and Akyazi, and when asked if the government was thinking of taking a new precaution plan, Ecevit said: ''For months, we have been working on measures about quakes and new natural disasters. A circular had been issued about what kind of measures can be taken against a probable quake on September 10. Now that, new efforts are under way within the context of this circular. We are in cooperation with the concerned universities. We will focus on detailed measures with a new circular.'' When asked if a new problem will erupt about temporary housing issue following Duzce quake, Ecevit said, ''of course, there will be new housing needs. Demands for tents increased with the fear that a new quake will occur. We are doing our best to conclude installation of prefabricated houses by the end of this month.''

[25] CLINTON IN ANKARA - OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY IN CANKAYA PALACE

[26] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - An official welcoming ceremony was staged in Cankaya Palace for the U.S. President Bill Clinton. Addressing the ceremony, President Demirel pointed out that friendship relations between Turkey and the U.S. have strong basis, and noted that ''Turkish-U.S. strategic partnership, which has a wide agenda'' will be further strengthened with the visit of the U.S. President. Demirel said ''I say welcome to Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, and his wife Mrs. Rodham Clinton, whom we share the belief that democracy, freedoms, and peace are values praising honor of humanity.'' Demirel said Turkey and the U.S. shared the pride of ''ending of Cold War with the victory of democracies.'' He said ''our rightfulness was our basic power while opposing to totalitarianism. We were right because we kept honor of humanity above everything. We were struggling for a world away from fear and pressure and for a world where basic rights and freedoms will be under guarantee.'' Demirel noted that splitting up of Soviet Union proved their rightfullness, and geography of democracies created the facility to expand. ''We have celebrated 10th anniversary of the collapse of Berlin Wall last week, which marks the turning point of this historical development. Construction of that wall symbolized shame, and its collapse symbolized freedom and peace.'' Demirel pointed out that a global agreement was formed on democracy, respect to human rights, and on the basis of humanitarian values based on priority of law. ''Have we come to the end of the history? No. There are many problems we should overcome. Yet, conscience to struggle against all these problems increase rapidly, and number of people who will struggle also increases. Thus, we are hopeful while looking at 21st century.'' Pointing out that mutual interests and field of activities gradually grew between Turkey and the U.S., Demirel said the two countries worked together for the peace, stability, welfare, and security of a geography extending from the Balkans to Caucasia, from Central Asia to the Middle East and to Europe. Demirel said Turkey and the U.S. developed a politics agenda together appropriate to the new political conditions in the world, adding that this ''historical'' visit of Clinton will contribute to the strengthening of joint efforts to this end. ''Turkish-U.S. strategic partnership covering energy, defense, economy, politics, trade, and culture will be further strengthened with this visit,'' Demirel noted. President Demirel said the services Clinton made to the welfare of the U.S. people and to international peace and security, will be recorded in history. ''Once again, I say them welcome to Turkey which is the meeting point of continents and cultures, and the cradle of civilizations. We wish them to have good time in our country.''

[27] CLINTON IN ANKARA - OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY IN CANKAYA PALACE

[28] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that they will be in an effort to allocate one billion U.S. dollar from Eximbank to improve Turkish-U.S. cooperation and within the framework of quake aid. Addressing the official welcoming ceremony staged in Cankaya Palace, Clinton expressed his condolences to Turkish people over the quake disaster, and noted that the U.S. will act together with Turkey in the good and bad days. Recalling that the U.S. sent rescue teams following the quake, Clinton said with the assignment he has given to Eximbank, they will be in an effort to give one billion U.S. dollars credit to small scale enterprises. Clinton expressed pleasure over being in Turkey, and thanked to Turkey over its efforts exerted for the solution of Bosnia and Kosovo problems.

[29] CLINTON IN ANKARA - OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY IN CANKAYA PALACE

[30] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that his country will always be besides Turkey in her good and bad days. Addressing the official welcoming ceremony staged in Cankaya Palace for himself, Clinton thanked to the invitation of President Suleyman Demirel and said that he has always wanted to come to Turkey. Clinton pointed out that he is honoured to broaden relations with Turkey, which is one of the most important allies of the U.S. ''Turkey and the U.S. have further got closer to each other in this century. Our bilateral relations are at a very important level. We, continuously show what we can do together from now on.'' Clinton said that they are helpless due to the earthquakes in Turkey, adding ''we will continue to do all that we can to speed up your recovery, to help you prepare for future natural disasters.'' Clinton pointed out that nobody can prevent such tragic disasters; first one on August 17 and the other one last week. ''On behalf of American people, I would like to express my best wishes and condolences to you and stress that we share your sorrow,'' he said. So far, American support has included search teams, tents and other supplies. The United States has also worked to help Turkey secure loans and other financing to rebuild, Clinton said. ''The United States is proud to stand with Turkey in good times or bad,'' Clinton said, through ''calamities, terrorism or other threats to freedom and democracy.'' The U.S. sent search and rescue teams to Turkey due to the quake, tried to meet the shelter need of at least 10,000 people and tries to provide 1 billion dollars to finance various projects and overcome the damage, he added. ''We'll help in your recovery and help you in the future, '' he said. Clinton stated that they are grateful to all countries particularly Greece which came and helped Turkey in the wake of the quake. Clinton reminded that his visit would last for five days, and added that he will be the first U.S. President who will visit Turkey for the longest time. He said that he wants to stress his solidarity with the Turkish people and the commitment of the American government to Turkey. ''We will work together for a future in which Turkey continues to be an ally of America, a partner in the new Europe and reconciled with others in the region, especially our friends in Greece,'' he said and thanked for the opportunity created for him to meet with Turkish officials and address the Turkish parliament. He will be together with at least 50 leaders during the Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) summit and also visit the quake region, said Clinton. Also mentioning the contributions of Turkey to the operations staged in Bosnia and Kosovo, Clinton said ''I also want to thank you for our unity in Bosnia and Kosovo. I wish to thank you for being together in difficult and easy days and particularly on sad and happy days.'' Also mentioning the creation of one Europe, Clinton ended his words saying ''Mr. President, I promise you that I will work together with you. I will try to fulfil my promise to this end. Turkey has to be also included in this Europe. I believe that the partnership and relations between Turkey and the U.S. will create this opportunity.''

[31] FOREIGN AID TO QUAKE SURVIVORS

[32] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Foreign countries continue to send aid to Turkey following the devastating quake on November 12 in Duzce county of Bolu. The foreign aid sent to the quake zone as of 17:00 local time on November 14 according to the information given by the Foreign Ministry are as follows:

[33] U.S.: An 80-member search-rescue team with five sniffer dogs arrived with a C-5 plane. The team is also bringing a lorry carrying equipment. U.S. officials said 500 tents will be sent at first stage.

[34] GERMANY: BERLIN: The German Red Cross sent a six-person search-rescue team with five sniffer dogs. Another six-member team with five sniffer dogs arrived together with the team sent by the Austrian Red Cross. The representatives of the ''Johanniter Unfallhilfe'' aid organization requested help from the Turkish Embassy in Berlin for sending its 11 tons of tents, blankets, and medical equipment to Turkey. Tecnisches Hilfswerk organization sent 11 personnel with 11 sniffer dogs and several equipment. FRANKFURT: Johanniter Unfallhilfe sent a 14-member team with six sniffer dogs and equipment. It also sent a two-member team with two sniffer dogs. The German Sniffer Dogs Association sent 14 personnel and 11 sniffer dogs. COLOGNE: Malteser Hilfsdienst aid organization sent a six-member rescue team with six sniffer dogs and equipment. BONN: Technisches Hilfswerk sent 28 personnel, nine sniffer dogs and several equipment. MUNICH: A lorry carrying medicine, baby food and winter clothings was sent from Munich to Duzce on November 13. STUTTGART: The Freiburg Rescue Team said it would send four personnel, four sniffer dogs, and a translator. ESSEN: Malteser Hilfsdienst aid organization sent six experts and six sniffer dogs. MUNSTER: Malteser Hilfsdienst is planning to send 14 personnel and 9 sniffer dogs.

[35] AUSTRIA: The Austrian Rescue Service sent a 31-member team, which also worked in Turkey after August's quake. A 56-member team of the Austrian Armed Forces will arrive in Turkey together with ten sniffer dogs and six tons of equipment.

[36] BELGIUM: A 21-person rescue team with 14 sniffer dogs arrived in Turkey. A military plane carrying 24 personnel, sniffer dogs, tents, blankets, beds and otner aid equipment arrived in Turkey. Belgium will send another plane carrying a field hospital and humanitarian aid.

[37] BULGARIA: A 30-member rescue team with five sniffer dogs arrived in Turkey with two helicopters. Later, another team including 20 experts arrived in Istanbul. Another team including 16 personnel will come to Turkey.

[38] ALGERIA: A C-130 plane carrying two tons humanitarian aid and a 35- member team including also doctors will come to Turkey.

[39] CZECH REPUBLIC: A 14-member rescue team with sniffer dogs arrived in Turkey.

[40] CHINA: The Chinese Embassy in Ankara will donate 20 thousand U.S. dollars and the Chinese government will donate 30 thousand U.S. dollars to the Red Crescent.

[41] DENMARK: The Danish Urgent Rescue Organization (DEMA) officials said Denmark will send a 40-person rescue team with 9 sniffer dogs, and an expert of the DEMA will arrive in Istanbul to provide coordination.

[42] ARMENIA: A 25-member rescue team with two sniffer dogs and several equipment arrived in Turkey.

[43] FRANCE: France sent a 11-person rescue team and aid equipment. Another 18-member rescue team arrived in Turkey.

[44] FINLAND: Finland sent a 28-member rescue team and three tons of humanitarian aid.

[45] THE NETHERLANDS: The Netherlands announced that she will sent a rescue team together with Belgium.

[46] BRITAIN: Britain sent a 50-person rescue team and equipment. Another four-member rescue team with two urgent rescue vehicles were sent by Britain. Besides, she will transfer a war ship including doctors and a medical unit and two helicopters.

[47] FOREIGN AID TO QUAKE SURVIVORS

[48] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Foreign countries continue to send aid to Turkey following the devastating quake on November 12 in Duzce county of Bolu. The foreign aid sent to the quake zone as of 17:00 local time on November 14 according to the information given by the Foreign Ministry are as follows:

[49] SPAIN: Spain sent four rescue teams.

[50] ISRAEL: Israel sent a 54-person team including doctors, security officials and foreign ministry officials. Besides, she sent a 260-member rescue team including a 20-member medical team. Five planes carrying a field hospital, medical teams and equipment arrived on Sunday in Turkey. The Israeli field hospital has also a heating system. Patients can go under surgery in the Israeli field hospital.

[51] ITALY: Italy will send two rescue teams.

[52] SWEDEN: Sweden sent a 40-member rescue team with six sniffer dogs, tents and other humanitarian aid. Sweden announced she will send a three- member delegaiton from the Rescue Works Agency. Sweden will send two lorries and a jeep from Kosovo.

[53] SWITZERLAND: A six-member rescue team with three sniffer dogs arrived in Turkey. Switzerland announced that a rescue team including 100 experts and sniffer dogs will leave for Turkey.

[54] JAPAN: A delegation including an official from the Japanese Foreign Ministry and two officials from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) arrived in Turkey to cary out the preparations for the aid to be sent by Japan.

[55] CANADA: Canada announced that she would donate 250 thousand U.S. dollars and send a two-member rescue team.

[56] TURKISH REPUBLIC OF NORTHERN CYPRUS: She sent a 10-member rescue team. She will send another 10-member rescue team.

[57] POLAND: A military plane carrying 57 personnel with 11 sniffer dogs and equipment arrived in Turkey.

[58] ROMANIA: Romania sent a 15-member rescue team with three sniffer dogs, and two tons humanitarian aid.

[59] RUSSIA: Russia sent a rescue team and a field hospital.

[60] SLOVAKIA: Slovakia sent a 20-member team including a doctor and nine sniffer dogs.

[61] SLOVENIA: Slovenia sent a rescue team.

[62] THE UKRAINE: The Ukraine sent a 30-member rescue team with two sniffer dogs and two tons of equipment.

[63] GREECE: Greece sent a 56-person rescue team and a medical team with three C-130 planes. She sent humanitarian aid with two C-130 planes. The ''Medicine du Monde-Greece'' will send 300 tents and 4 thousand blankets to the Red Crescent. Besides, a five-member rescue team departed from Greece for Turkey.

[64] UNICEF: The UNICEF sent three lorries carrying 19 personnel, 6 experts, 50 tents and many stoves. UNICEF announced that it will send 30 tent- hospitals, 5 generators, 500 sleeping bags, 6 thousand blankets, one thousand stoves.

[65] EU COUNCIL MEETING STARTS - ESDI ON AGENDA

[66] BRUSSELS, Nov 15 (A.A) - The regular monthly meeting of the European Union (EU) Council, composed of foreign ministers of the EU member states started in Brussels on Monday. The defense ministers of the member countries will also officially participate in the afternoon session of the Council meeting for the first time in EU history. The Council will broadly take up the issue of the European Security and Defense Identity (ESDI) and meet with the foreign ministers of the non-EU countries which are NATO allies namely Turkey, Polania, Hungary, Czech Republic, Norway and Iceland this evening and inform them about ESDI. Faruk Logoglu, the Foreign Ministry Deputy Undersecretary will represent Turkey in that meeting. The Council, which will evaluate the ESDI project, will also take up such issues like the integration of EU and West European Union (WEU) and appointment of Javier Solana, the EU'S High Representative of Foreign Politics and Joint Defense also as the WEU Secretary General. While the EU Council reviews the recent preparations for the Helsinki Summit, it also thinks of inviting the prime ministers and foreign ministers of the whole EU candidate countries to Finland within the framework of the European Conference. EU Term President Finland will ask for the opinion of the Council about this invitation. EU Council will also take up issues like the situation in the Balkans, the developments in Pakistan and Mediterranean strategy.

[67] COOPERATIVE DETERMINATION-99 MANOEUVRES

[68] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Cooperative Determination-99 Manoeuvres will be carried out in Bucharest, Romania between November 26 and December 5. Gen. Tamer Akbas, Commander of NATO Southeastern Europe Allied Forces, will control and direct the manoeuvres. General Staff General Secretariat told a statement that Cooperative Determination-99, one of the manoeuvres performed between NATO and Partnership for Peace countries, will take place between November 26 and December 5. The U.S., France, Italy, Hungary, Portugal, Turkey and Greece, the NATO member countries; and Partnership for Peace member countries like Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Switzerland, Kyrgzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Uzbekistan, Romania, Slovakia, and Ukraine will attend the manoeuvres. International Red Cross Committee and the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees will provide personnel to the manoeuvres. A total of 17 personnel from Land Forces Commandership, including one general, 14 officers, and non-commisioned officers, will participate in the military exercise. Cooperative-Determination-99 Manoeuvres was planned by South Europe Allied Forces Commandership, based in Italy. The statement said a press information center will be opened in Bucharest between November 23 and December 5.

[69] U.N. SECRETARY GENERAL ANNAN: ''SIDES ON CYPRUS ACCEPTED TO START INDIRECT MEETINGS''

[70] WASHINGTON/LEFKOSA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary General, said on Monday that his statement regarding the indirect talks between the concerned sides on Cyprus which will be held in New York, could be misunderstood. Annan, who visits China, made a statement after TRNC President Rauf Denktas turned back the invitation last evening. He said that there is a misunderstanding and added that ''it seems that my words caused some confusions. I should be clearer. The sides decided to start indirect meetings on December 3 to prepare a basis for meaningful negotiations.'' Annan pointed out that an agreement was reached on calling the concerned sides to a meeting by a short and simple invitation without including any name or titles. However Annan didn't mention the description of Denktas as ''Mr.'' and Clerides as ''President'' in his first statement. Last night Ergun Olgun, the TRNC President's Consultant for Political Affairs, stated that Rauf Denktas wouldn't participate in indirect meetings as the U.N. didn't abide by the earlier reached agreement. Olgun stated that the first statement of Annan in New York caused a different format from the agreement reached. Yet, this morning Denktas said that the U.N. General Secretariat returned to the earlier format and noted that he will attend indirect talks that will take place in New York on December 3.

[71] COOPERATION INTENTION PROTOCOL SIGNED BETWEEN TURKEY AND THE U.S. ''TO PREVENT AND INTERFERE IN NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL DISASTERS''

[72] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Cooperation Intention Protocol was signed between Turkey and the U.S. on Monday ''to Prevent and Interfere In Natural and Artifical Technological Disasters'' within the framework of the visit of Bill Clinton, the U.S. President. The U.S. Federal Emergency State Administration Agency and Housing and Public Works Disaster Affairs General Directorate signed the protocol as the tete-a-tete meeting of Clinton and Demirel continued. The signatories of the agreement were Ali Helvaci, Undersecretary of Housing and Public Works, and Marc Grossman, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State. The protocol covers cooperation between the regions, preparation before the disaster, training programs and military exercises, exchange of information, scientific and technical cooperation and arrangement of cooperation process. Also, within the framework of the protocol, cooperation of Turkey and the U.S. in the field of disaster administration and emergency aid preparation were envisaged. Under the protocol, 2000 year business plan will be put into enforcement in December.

[73] TRNC PRESIDENT DENKTAS CANCELS HIS NEWS CONFERENCE

[74] LEFKOSA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Rauf Denktas, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), cancelled his news conference, which was reported to take place on Monday. Denktas was expected to brief about the latest developments on Cyprus issue, and respond to the questions of local and foreign journalists. TRNC President Denktas told A.A. correspondent that they were disappointed over the first two texts of the U.N. about indirect talks. Denktas said ''as a result of our insistency and with the strong support of Turkey, they have returned to the original text which was earlier agreed on.'' Denktas said the U.N. General Secretariat returned to the format, which was agreed on earlier about indirect talks, and noted that he will attend indirect talks that will take place in New York on December 3. Stressing that everybody should understand that a progress can be recorded in Cyprus only in the basis of full equality, Denktas said ''within the framework of this understanding and by basing on the latest statement of the U.N. Secretary General, we will go to New York on December 3 for indirect talks.''

[75] CYPRUS NEGOTIATIONS - FOREIGN MINISTRY: ''TURKEY WILL CONTINUE TO GIVE DENKTAS POWERFUL SUPPORT WITHIN FRAMEWORK OF COMMON VIEWS''

[76] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - As a guarantor country and the motherland, Turkey will continue to extend support to Rauf Denktas, the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Monday saying that Turkey completely supports and shares the sensitivities and position put forward by Rauf Denktas's statement early the same day about the indirect talks on Cyprus. ''Turkey and the TRNC do have the constructive position and common views which are based on today's realities and the experiences in the past concerning the way for finding a just and lasting compromise on the island,'' the statement said. ''It is clear that a new common life on the island can be possible only on the basis of sovereign equality. As a guarantor country and the motherland, Turkey will continue to give Mr. Rauf Denktas the powerful support within the framework of our comoon views,'' it said. The statement said Turkey and the TRNC stressed that the atmosphere is not suitable for direct talks on Cyprus, and ''the basis for negotiation should be prepared for a comprehensive initiative for a lasting solution through the talks with the mediator.'' Recalling that Turkey and the TRNC emphasized that the progress could be recorded on the basis of full-equality on Cyprus, the statement said, ''these opinions were conveyed at the highest-level to the U.N. Secretary General.''

[77] CLINTON IN ANKARA - OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY IN CANKAYA PALACE

[78] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - An official welcoming ceremony was staged in Cankaya Palace for the U.S. President Bill Clinton. Addressing the ceremony, President Demirel pointed out that friendship relations between Turkey and the U.S. have strong basis, and noted that ''Turkish-U.S. strategic partnership, which has a wide agenda'' will be further strengthened with the visit of the U.S. President. Demirel said ''I say welcome to Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, and his wife Mrs. Rodham Clinton, whom we share the belief that democracy, freedoms, and peace are values praising honor of humanity.'' Demirel said Turkey and the U.S. shared the pride of ''ending of Cold War with the victory of democracies.'' He said ''our rightfulness was our basic power while opposing to totalitarianism. We were right because we kept honor of humanity above everything. We were struggling for a world away from fear and pressure and for a world where basic rights and freedoms will be under guarantee.'' Demirel noted that splitting up of Soviet Union proved their rightfullness, and geography of democracies created the facility to expand. ''We have celebrated 10th anniversary of the collapse of Berlin Wall last week, which marks the turning point of this historical development. Construction of that wall symbolized shame, and its collapse symbolized freedom and peace.'' Demirel pointed out that a global agreement was formed on democracy, respect to human rights, and on the basis of humanitarian values based on priority of law. ''Have we come to the end of the history? No. There are many problems we should overcome. Yet, conscience to struggle against all these problems increase rapidly, and number of people who will struggle also increases. Thus, we are hopeful while looking at 21st century.'' Pointing out that mutual interests and field of activities gradually grew between Turkey and the U.S., Demirel said the two countries worked together for the peace, stability, welfare, and security of a geography extending from the Balkans to Caucasia, from Central Asia to the Middle East and to Europe. Demirel said Turkey and the U.S. developed a politics agenda together appropriate to the new political conditions in the world, adding that this ''historical'' visit of Clinton will contribute to the strengthening of joint efforts to this end. ''Turkish-U.S. strategic partnership covering energy, defense, economy, politics, trade, and culture will be further strengthened with this visit,'' Demirel noted. President Demirel said the services Clinton made to the welfare of the U.S. people and to international peace and security, will be recorded in history. ''Once again, I say them welcome to Turkey which is the meeting point of continents and cultures, and the cradle of civilizations. We wish them to have good time in our country.''

[79] CLINTON IN ANKARA - OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY IN CANKAYA PALACE

[80] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that they will be in an effort to allocate one billion U.S. dollar from Eximbank to improve Turkish-U.S. cooperation and within the framework of quake aid. Addressing the official welcoming ceremony staged in Cankaya Palace, Clinton expressed his condolences to Turkish people over the quake disaster, and noted that the U.S. will act together with Turkey in the good and bad days. Recalling that the U.S. sent rescue teams following the quake, Clinton said with the assignment he has given to Eximbank, they will be in an effort to give one billion U.S. dollars credit to small scale enterprises. Clinton expressed pleasure over being in Turkey, and thanked to Turkey over its efforts exerted for the solution of Bosnia and Kosovo problems.

[81] CLINTON IN ANKARA - OFFICIAL WELCOMING CEREMONY IN CANKAYA PALACE

[82] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that his country will always be besides Turkey in her good and bad days. Addressing the official welcoming ceremony staged in Cankaya Palace for himself, Clinton thanked to the invitation of President Suleyman Demirel and said that he has always wanted to come to Turkey. Clinton pointed out that he is honoured to broaden relations with Turkey, which is one of the most important allies of the U.S. ''Turkey and the U.S. have further got closer to each other in this century. Our bilateral relations are at a very important level. We, continuously show what we can do together from now on.'' Clinton said that they are helpless due to the earthquakes in Turkey, adding ''we will continue to do all that we can to speed up your recovery, to help you prepare for future natural disasters.'' Clinton pointed out that nobody can prevent such tragic disasters; first one on August 17 and the other one last week. ''On behalf of American people, I would like to express my best wishes and condolences to you and stress that we share your sorrow,'' he said. So far, American support has included search teams, tents and other supplies. The United States has also worked to help Turkey secure loans and other financing to rebuild, Clinton said. ''The United States is proud to stand with Turkey in good times or bad,'' Clinton said, through ''calamities, terrorism or other threats to freedom and democracy.'' The U.S. sent search and rescue teams to Turkey due to the quake, tried to meet the shelter need of at least 10,000 people and tries to provide 1 billion dollars to finance various projects and overcome the damage, he added. ''We'll help in your recovery and help you in the future, '' he said. Clinton stated that they are grateful to all countries particularly Greece which came and helped Turkey in the wake of the quake. Clinton reminded that his visit would last for five days, and added that he will be the first U.S. President who will visit Turkey for the longest time. He said that he wants to stress his solidarity with the Turkish people and the commitment of the American government to Turkey. ''We will work together for a future in which Turkey continues to be an ally of America, a partner in the new Europe and reconciled with others in the region, especially our friends in Greece,'' he said and thanked for the opportunity created for him to meet with Turkish officials and address the Turkish parliament. He will be together with at least 50 leaders during the Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) summit and also visit the quake region, said Clinton. Also mentioning the contributions of Turkey to the operations staged in Bosnia and Kosovo, Clinton said ''I also want to thank you for our unity in Bosnia and Kosovo. I wish to thank you for being together in difficult and easy days and particularly on sad and happy days.'' Also mentioning the creation of one Europe, Clinton ended his words saying ''Mr. President, I promise you that I will work together with you. I will try to fulfil my promise to this end. Turkey has to be also included in this Europe. I believe that the partnership and relations between Turkey and the U.S. will create this opportunity.''

[83] PRESS RELEASE OF THE U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON - ''WE HOPE THAT UPCOMING TALKS ON CYPRUS ISSUE WILL BRING LASTING PEACE AND SECURITY FOR PEOPLE''

[84] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton expressed hope on Monday that upcoming talks on Cyprus issue will bring a lasting peace and security for its people. Speaking to press after interdelegational talks, Clinton briefed about the issues he discussed with President Suleyman Demirel. Clinton said they discussed Cyprus issue, and noted that he was hopeful about the upcoming indirect talks related with Cyprus. The U.S. President said they exchanged views about the friendship between Turkey and Greece which was recorded after the quake disaster.

[85] PRESS RELEASE OF THE U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON: - ''I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS OUR GRIEF DUE TO LAST TWO EARTHQUAKES''

[86] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that they feel deep grief over the earthquakes that shook Turkey on August 17 and November 12. In his press release after the interdelegationary meetings, Clinton stated that President Suleyman Demirel has summarized our meeting quite well and so he only wants to briefly add a couple of points. Clinton noted that they took up the summit of the Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) which Turkey will host. ''It is fitting that Turkey would be the host in this final year of the 20th century, when the agenda for Europe is to build a Europe that for the first time in history is undivided, democratic and at peace. For Turkey is a key to meeting all the challenges that remained of that vision of Europe: the challenge of integrating Russia, of stabilizing the Balkans, of bringing a real peace to Aegean and Cyprus, of bridging the gulf between the west and the Islamic world. In these areas and more Turkey and the United states should be partners. In that regard, I thank the President and the Prime Minister for the principled stand Turkey took in Kosovo and for Turkey's leadership today in bringing peace and prosperity to the Balkans. We also had a very good conversation about the hopeful progress in cooperation between Turkey and Greece, an issue of profound importance to the United Nations because of our friendship with both nations and because of our strong support for Turkey's full partnership in the EU. I expressed my hope that the coming talks on Cyprus will bring us closer lasting peace with security for all Cypriots, and an end to the island's division.'' ''We discussed the importance of continuing to integrate Russia with Europe as a strong, stable democratic nation, and our shared concern that the mounting civilian casualties in Chechnya will hinder that goal. We talked about energy security in the Caspian, and I reaffirmed America's commitment to making the Baku-Ceyhan and the trans-Caspian pipelines commercial realities, any my appreciation for the leadership of President Demirel and others toward that goal,'' he added. ''Finally, we discussed Turkey's progress in deeping its democracy, and strengthening human rights. There has been impressive momentum in the last few years, and I hope that there will be continued progress, especially in the area of freedom of expression. In closing Mr. President I want to thank you for your friendship, for your commitment to our alliance. And I want to once again reaffirm my personal support for Turkey's European Union (EU) candidacy as it moves forward in all the areas that we have discussed today,''he ended.

[87] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON IN ANKARA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL'S PRESS RELEASE

[88] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel and U.S. President Bill Clinton staged a joint news conference following the interdelegationary meetings between Turkey and the U.S. on Monday. President Suleyman Demirel thanked to all U.S. citizens for their solidarity. Demirel recalled that Turkey and the U.S. were working for peace, prosperity and stability in a broad geography. Noting that they held comprehensive talks on international issues, President Demirel said they also discussed the contributions to peace and stability in the region. Pointing out that they also discussed defense cooperation and regional security, Demirel said the joint projects were reviewed. President Demirel said they also discussed the relations between Turkey and the European Union (EU), expressing the support given by the U.S. for Turkey's EU candidacy.

[89] PRESS RELEASE OF PRESIDENT DEMIREL ''WE HAVE DISCUSSED DEFENSE COOPERATION AND REGIONAL SECURITY ISSUES''

[90] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Monday that Turkey and the U.S. work together for the peace, stability and prosperity on the vast geography that extends from Balkans to the Caucasus, central Asia to the Middle East, Europe to the Black Sea, Caspian and the Mediterranean basin. Addressing a joint news conference following the meetings between Turkish and the U.S. delegations, Demirel recalled that Clinton arrived in Turkey for a five-day visit. Demirel said: ''I would like to welcome him once again in your presence. He is in Ankara for a five- day visit. Taking this opportunity I would like to express our thanks to the U.S. people for the support and solidarity they have shown during the disasters that affected us one after another in recent months. Turkey and the U.S. work together for the peace, stability and prosperity on the vast geography that extends from Balkans to the Caucasus, central Asia to the Middle East, Europe to the Black Sea, Caspian and the Mediterranean basin.'' He said ''earlier today, we had an extensive exchange of views and opinions as two strategic partners. We discussed our contribution to regional peace, stability and prosperity. We also discussed the ways that we can improve our cooperation, we were pleased to note that both of us had the determination to evaluate new cooperation fields between our countries.'' Demirel said ''we explained to the President our activities in the areas of economy, trade and energy, and the importance we place on cooperation with the EU on this context.'' President Demirel noted ''we also discussed defense cooperation and regional security issues. We evaluated our joint projects together. We explored new possibilities to deepen our relations even further. We listened to the views of the U.S. President Clinton regarding the opinion of the U.S. on this subject. President Clinton shares our view that is very important for Turkey as a country where Islam, democracy and secularism are proven to co-exist to become an EU member in order to realize the project of a pluralist democratic Europe would reach diversity.'' Demirel pointed out that ''in the light of these views, we reviewed Turkey's relations with the EU on the eve of the Helsinki summit. We explained once again to the President the assessment of the Turkish Turkish Republic regarding the EU.'' ''We also expressed Turkey's contractual rights for EU membership. We stressed our expectation from the EU to focus under proper perspective on this side. President Clinton has confirmed to continue to support of the U.S. for Turkey's membership to the EU.'' Demirel noted. He said ''I can say that the meetings between the two friends and allies that have strong bonds were beneficial and productive and that we were able to review common areas of interest, attention and action that are included in the broad specturum of Turkish-U.S strategic partnership. Our friendship with the U.S. is an important guarantee for the success of our common goals and ideals. This friendship will be improved full in the future. The joint efforts of Turkey and the U.S. will bring further peace, stability and prosperity to the vast geography. I would like to welcome Mr. Clinton once again and wish him a good time in Turkey. Thank you all.''

[91] EU COMMISSION SPOKESMAN SAYS THERE IS NO NEGATIVE SIGNAL REGARDING TURKEY'S EU CANDIDACY

[92] BRUSSELS, Nov 15 (A.A) - Jean-Christophe Flori, the Spokesman of the European Union (EU) Commission, said on Monday that there is no negative signal regarding Turkey's EU candidacy. Flori responded to the questions of the journalists and evaluated the developments regarding the official recognition of Turkey's candidacy in the Helsinki Summit. None of the EU countries put forward any blockade or similar stances against Turkey's candidacy, Flori noted. Flori stated that Gunther Verheugen, a member of the EU Commission responsible for the enlargement process, earlier reiterated his wish that the Cyprus question should be solved within the framework of the EU resolutions and during a meeting held between the leaders of the two sides on the island.

[93] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON IN ANKARA - PRESIDENT DEMIREL AND PRESIDENT CLINTON RESPOND TO QUESTIONS

[94] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel, and U.S. President Bill Clinton responded to questions of journalists on Monday after the joint press conference. When asked about the allegations of repression and torture in Turkey, President Demirel said, ''it is impossible to say that there is no torture in Turkey; there is torture. But torture is not state policy. Torture is a crime. And whoever commits this crime, no matter who that person may be, that person is investigated and is penalized accordingly. And I can say that we are doing everything to make sure that there is no torture.'' When asked. ''do you believe these allegations; are they a serious impediment to Turkish-American relations? And I speak now partly of the Kurds, but also other dissident groups,'' President Clinton said, ''Let me, in response to your question, say that we believe that there has been a renewed and clear determination of the Turkish government to take a stand against torture and to generally increase protection of human rights. There are some non-torture areas that we hope there will continue to be progress in, like freedom of expression. But President Demirel has faithfully stated, I think, the policy of the Turkish government. And we are encouraged that the human rights issue is moving in the right direction in this nation.'' When asked about relations between Turkey and Greece, President Clinton noted, ''well, I would say from the point of view of America, they are very good. And I could give you some specific examples. One, our partnership in the Balkans, first in Bosnia and then in Kosovo, to stand up for human rights. Two, our commitment to energy security in the region, and the support of the pipelines projects I mentioned earlier. Three, the improvement in the relationships between Turkey and Greece, something which has always been a little bit of a limitation on our partnership, because of our ties to both countries. And four, the economic and political reforms undertaken by Turkey in the last year and several months have been very impressive to us. So, for all these reasons, I would say that the state of our partnership is strong, and I just want the U.S. to be in a position to give more economic assistance and more political support as we move toward our shared objectives.'' Responding to a question, ''could you please tell us how determined you will continue to be in supporting Turkey's efforts with the EU,'' President Clinton said, ''Well, let me say first of all, I am very determined to support Turkish membership in the EU for a very good reason. I think if you -- any of you, including my American colleagues here -- if you were to go home tonight and make a list of the big problems you think the world could face in the next 10 or 20 years, every one of them would be strengthened if Turkey were a full partner in a Europe that respected religious and cultural diversity and shared devotion to democracy and human rights. I might say that is one of the reasons I am so pleased by the recent improvement in relationships between Turkey and Greece and why I think it is so important to continue to make progress there, because the difficulties between the two nations are small when compared to the benefits of cooperation and European integration, both to Turkey and to Greece. As to how I intend to express my support, I will continue to talk to the leaders of Europe. I take every opportunity that I have to have this discussions. I feel very strongly that one of the four or five key questions to the future of this whole part of the world is whether Turkey is a full partner with the EU. So I will continue to advocate it.'' When asked, ''on the WTO deal that you announced today, did China go beyond the concessions that it offered in April? And if so, could you say where and how far? And does this mean that China will be able to have an active role in the WTO talks in the Seathle,'' President Clinton said, ''the answer to the first question is that we... I think the fair answer is that we finished a lot of the matters which were left unsolved when we were meeting in the springtime in Washinington. I don't think it is fair to the Chinese or to the united states to give the inference that either one made massive new concessions. I think that there were matters that were still outstanding that we were able to resolve and work through and I'm very grateful, frankly, for the leadership of Ambassador Barshefksy and Mr. Sperkling on our side and for all those on the Chinese side. I think this is a good agreement for China; and for America; and for the world. I think that all of us benefit when the most populous nation in the world is now going to be part of a rule based system that will bring shared prosperity. The answer to your second question... the short answer to your second question is, I don't know. That is, I honestly don't know how this changes the specific formal role that China might play at Seattle. But as I'm sure you know, all the developing nations have been taking various positions on these issues. And I would certainly hope that the conclusion of this agreement between ourselves and China will lead to the rapid accession of China to the WTO and would lead the Chinese to urge other developing countries to take the same sort of comprehensive approach to their participation in the world economic system , because I think that will bring the quickest benefits to them and to the rest of the world.

[95] U.S PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT

[96] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that Turkey has become an engine of regional growth. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, President Clinton recalled the saying ''the sovereignty is unconditionally belongs to people'', which was marked on the walls of the parliament. Recalling that Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit is a graduate of Robert College, which was the first foreign educational institution in Turkey established at 1963, Clinton said that he was proud of this. Pointing out the friendship and solidarity between Turkey and the U.S during the Cold War period, Clinton recalled the Marshall plan, and Truman doctrine which he said they were to assist and support also Turkey's sovereignty. Clinton said that Turkey has passed every test from Korea to Kosovo in the name of friendship, and partnership. Stating that it was revealed that this friendship was not based on the concern against the Soviet Union, Clinton said that Turkey and this friendship gained even more importance now. Clinton emphasized that Turkey has become an engine of regional development especially by the efforts of former, now defunct President Turgut Ozal, and President Suleyman Demirel, and the parliament. He recalled that Turkey and the U.S. have big trade volume of 6 billion U.S. dollars, including big joint projects, especially in energy sector. Recalling that Turkish parliament has passed 69 laws between June and September, including significant laws such as the social security law, and international arbitration law, Clinton said that ''he will tell this to the U.S Congress when he returned back. Praising Ataturk for connecting Turkey's future to democracy, Clinton reminded that Ataturk was not supported by the Western countries when he exerted efforts to open Turkey to the West, on the contrary, the West tried to bring obstacles in front of him. Reminding that many new countries emerged from the ashes of Ottoman Empire, Clinton said Turkey also lead these countries taking into consideration the transition to democracy. Clinton said the past of Turkey is the key to understand the 20th century. Clinton also recalled that Turkey which was located in a hostile neighborhood, managed to set up a bridge between Europe and Asia, and the East and the West. Thanking Turkey for its support to Operation Northern Watch, and during the mass exodus of civilians from Iraq to Turkey in 1991, and in the Balkans, Clinton reminded that Turkish soldiers in NATO are helping to provide peace in the Balkans. Mentioning Russia, Clinton said that they must tell Russia that fighting against terrorism is right, but excessive use of force against civilians is wrong. Stating that Turkey has come a long way concerning human rights, Clinton said that there is far more to be done. Clinton added that the sovereignty should not be established on fear. Adding that they have profound interests in Turkey's success, Clinton reminded that the U.S. also came from a long distance concerning democracy.

[97] FINNISH FM HALONEN SAYS SHE IS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT TURKEY'S CANDIDACY

[98] BRUSSELS, Nov 15 (A.A) - Tarja Halonen, the Foreign Minister of Finland, which is the Term President of the European Union (EU), said on Monday that she is optimistic about Turkey's candidacy. Halonen responded to the questions of the journalists. The foreign ministers of the EU countries evaluate Turkey's position prior to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) summit and Helsinki summit, Halonen noted. When asked why she is optimistic about Turkey's candidacy, Halonen stated that the bilateral meetings and the fact that the talks regarding Cyprus will start made her optimistic. The foreign minister of the EU countries will meet with Foreign Minister Ismail Cem in a dinner during the OSCE summit, Halonen recalled. Halonen stated that the contacts will continue prior to the Helsinki summit. Hubert Vedrine, French Foreign Minister, staged a press conference. He said that Turkey's officially being recognized as the EU candidate was put into the agenda during the Council meeting today. Meanwhile, the EU Council issued a statement reflecting the sorrow it felt over the quake disaster in Turkey and wishing condolence to Turkish nation.

[99] U.S. EXIMBANK TO GIVE 1 BILLION DOLLARS LOAN

[101] PREMIER ECEVIT: ''CLINTON PUT FORWARD HOW GOOD HE UNDERSTANDS
TURKEY''
[102] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Premier Bulent Ecevit said on Monday that U.S. President Bill Clinton put forward how good he understands Turkey. Ecevit responded to the questions of the journalists following Clinton's speech in the Parliamentary General Assembly. Ecevit said, ''it was a very good speech. He put forward the importance he attributed to Turkey and how good he understands Turkey.'' Kamran Inan, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Foreign Commission, said that Clinton did not address any parliament of the European country until today. Clinton's addressing the Turkish parliament indicates the importance that the U.S. attributes to Turkey, Inan noted. Inan stated that the fact that Clinton's wife and daughter came to the parliament carries importance. Clinton's underlining the fact that a Europe without Turkey cannot be accepted also carries importance, Inan stressed. Inan emphasized that the relations between Turkey and the U.S. reached the highest level today. Inan said, ''Clinton speech referring to Ataturk's principles, Ozal's economic reforms; expressing the importance and position of Turkey for the following 100 years; and emphasizing that Turkey is the element of stability in her region was a very good speech.''

[103] THE U.S. PRESIDENT ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[104] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - U.S. President Bill Clinton praised Turkey on Monday for impressive momentum in improving its human rights record and declared strong support for Turkish membership in the European Union as a key to ensuring peace and stability in this region in the 21st century. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said ''I have come to express America's solidarity with the Turkish people at a time of national tragedy, and to reaffirm our partnership for a common future. We have been friends for a very long time.'' ''In 1863, the first American college outside the U.S., Robert College, opened its doors to the youth of Turkey. It was the only foreign institution allowed along the Bosphorus, precisely because America had never encroached upon Turkish sovereignty. I am very proud that Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit is an alumnus of Robert College,'' said Clinton. ''Earlier in this century, the great founder of the Turkish Republic, Kemal Ataturk, captured America's imagination with his bold reforms. He was called a second George Washington. He appeared on the cover of ''Our Time'' magazine. He corresponded with members of our Congress. And we moved our embassy here to Ankara, the capital of his new republic,'' he added. Clintod said, ''In 1927, in a six-day speech before his body, Ataturk surveyed Turkey's relations with the countries of the world. And he paid America what I believe was a compliment when he said, 'The U.S. is more acceptable than the rest'.'' ''At the dawn of the Cold War, President Truman committed America's resources to protect Turkey's sovereignty. The Truman Doctrine seatled our partnership, and laid the basis for the Marshall Plan and for America's entire postwar engagement with the rest of the world. Over 50 years, now, our alliance has stood the test of time, and passed every other test, from Korea to Kosovo. On behalf of all Americans, I thank ou for half a century of friendship, mutual respect and partnership,'' said Clinton. Clinton added, ''Since the Cold War ended, we have learned something quite wonderful. We have learned that our friendship does not depend upon a common concern with the Soviet Union, and that in fact, in the post-Cold War era, our partnership has become even more important. Together we are adapting NATO to the demands of a new century. We are developing new sources of energy to help the entire region. Last year, our trade was over 6 billion U.S. dollars. It has risen 50 percent in the last five years alone.''

[105] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[106] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that Turkey has become an engine of regional growth thanks to the vision of former President, Turgut Ozal, the continuing leadership of President Demirel, and Prime Minister Ecevit, and the dynamism of the Turkish people. Speaking in the parliament, Clinton said, ''In the months ahead, together we will launch new projects worth billions of dollars, mostly in the energy sector, to bring jobs to Turkey and to bring our two nations even closer.'' ''This assembly has taken bold steps to lead Turkey into the new century. I want the American press to listen to this: Between June and September, this assembly passed remarkable 69 laws. I'm going to tell our Congress about that when I get home. But, I will say this: It is not just the quantity of those laws that count, it is the quality. Landmark legislation on Social Security, an international arbitration law, banking reform --- laws that took courage and vision. Now, you face a difficult budget decision that requires courage and vision. If you do pass a sound budget, it will strengthen your economy and advance the prospects of a standby IMF agreement, something the United States strongly supports.''

[107] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[108] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that he believed Turkey's future will be critical to shaping the 21st century. Speaking in Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''On the edge of a new millennium, we have a rare opportunity to reflect upon our journey --- two nations that started in very different places, with a shared commitment to democracy, who now must forge a partnership relevant to the new era.'' ''In a sense, we are all here today because of Kemal Ataturk. Not only because he chose Ankara to be the capital, not only because he chose Ankara to be your capital, but because he pledged Turkey's future to the democracy symbolized by this proud assembly. Ironically, he accomplished much of what he did with no help from the western powers. Indeed, against the opposition of most them. Many tried to carve up Turkey, to reduce it to a rump state. In the face of this, however, Ataturk responded not by closing Turkey up, but by opening Turkey to the rest of the world, a decision for which we must all be very grateful,''Clinton said. ''For better and for worse, the events of that time when the Ottoman Empire disintegrated and a new Turkey arose have shaped the history of this entire century. From Bulgaria to Albania to Israel to Arabia, new nations were born, and a century of conflict erupted from the turmoil of shifting borders, unrealized ambitions, and old hatreds beginning with the first Balkan War and World War I, all the way to today's struggles in the Middle East and in the former Yugoslavia. Turkey's past is key to understanding the 20th century. But, more importantly, I believe Turkey's future will be critical to shaping the 21st century.'' Clinton added. Clinton said, ''Since people have been able to draw maps, they have pointed out the immutable fact of Turkey's geography that Asia Minor is a bridge between continents. Less than a kilometer separates Europe from Asia at the nearest point along the Bosphorus. And, in reality, there is no separation at all, thanks to the bridges you have built, to the commerce that spans Turkey every day to the communications revolution that links all parts of the world instantaneously.'' ''Turkey's ability to bridge East and West is all the more important when another fact of Turkey's geography is considered. You are almost entirely surrounded by neighbors who are either activelyhostile to democracy and peace, or struggling against great obstacles to embrace democracy and peace. To the southeast, Iran is witnessing a remarkable debate between proponents of a closed and open society, while Iraq continues to repress its people, threaten its neighbors, and seek weapons of mass destruction. I thank Turkey for its support of Operation Northern Watch, which allows us to deter Saddam's aggression, protect the people of northern Iraq, and avoid another refugee crisis like the one you so courageously met in 1991,'' Clinton said. He added, ''To the south, the Middle East is still roiled with violence but blessed with an historic opportunity to build a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. Turkey is a force for that peace as well, through its ties to Israel and Arab states.'' ''To the northwest lie the Balkans, where in the last decade seven new democracies have been born, and four wars have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. Turkish forces in NATO helped to end those wars, and thus to end this century with a powerful affirmation of human dignity and human rights. Today we are working side by side for an enduring peace in the Balkans, one which not only ends ethnic cleansing, but builds genuine cooperation, progress and prosperity,'' he said. ''To the east, 12 independent nations have emerged from the ruins of the Soviet empire. There is no more important challenge today than helping them to develop stable, independent, democratic societies. Turkey here also has been a leader, reaching out in particular to nations that share ties of language, culture and history,'' said Clinton.

[109] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[110] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that ''We must help Russia to complete its momentous democratic revolution.'' Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''We must be clear with Russia that its fight against terrorism is right, but that the use of indiscriminate force against civilians is wrong, likely to exacerbate the very tensions Russia wants to resolve. We must keep working together to resolve the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. We must secure the region's energy resources in a way that protects the Bosphorus, helps newly free states to stand on their feet, empowers Turkey and Europe's future growth. We'll have a chance to address all these challenges when nearly a third of the world's nations gather at the OSCE summit in Istanbul this week.'' ''When we step back and look ahead, it is possible to imagine two very different futures over the next generation. Without too much trouble, a pessimist might foresee a dark future, indeed: a Middle East with the peace process shattered, Saddam's aggression unchecked, democracy collapsed in the Caucasus in Central Asia, extremism and terror spreading across the region, more violence in the Balkans, military coups, unstoppable nuclear tension in Pakistan and India,'' Clinson said, adding that, ''But there is another vision --- one that requires a strong Turkey playing its rightful role at the crossroads of the world, at the meeting place of three great faits. It is possible to see that brighter future: one of rising prosperity and declining conflict; one in which tolerance is an article of faith, and terrorism is seen, rightly, as a travesty of faith; a future in which people are free to pursue their beliefs and proclaim their heritage, in which women are treated with equal respect; in which nations see no contradiction between preserving traditions and participating in the life of the world, a future of growing respect for human rights that protect our differences and our common humanity; and, specifically, a future in which nations that are predominantly Muslim are increasingly partners with nations that are not, acting in concert in ways, large and small, to realize the shared hopes of their people.'' ''I hope that the next time an American President addresses a nation with a Muslim tradition, he will be able to say that the progress of Indonesia and Nigeria and Morocco, all very different nations, has helped all of us put the lie to the tired claim an inherent clash of civilizations. As Ataturk said 75 years ago, '' countries vary, but civilization is one.'' President Kennedy said the same thing in Berlin when he said 'freedom is indivisible','' Clinton said.

[111] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[112] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that progress on human rights will be the most significant sign of Turkey's confidence in looking to the new century, and in many ways, the most meaningful measure of its progress. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National assembly, Clinton said, ''there are now billions of people around the region and the world whose future depends upon decision made in this very room over the next 25 years. Each has a stake in Turkey's sucess in defining itself as a strong, secular, modern nation proud of its traditions, fully part of Europe. That will require Ozal's reforms, through the actions of this assembly, through the thousands of ways in which the Turkish people daily are forging an energetic and responsive civil society.'' ''The future we want to build together begins with Turkish progress in deepening democracy at home. Nobody wants this more against torture in a new law that protects the rights of political parties, in the achievements and vitality of this assembly. Avenues are opening for Kurdish citizens of Turkey to reclaim that most basic of birth rights... a normal life,'' Clinton said. He added, ''But there still is far more to be done to realize the promise of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, articulate at the very moment our two countries entered into close relations 50 years ago. That progress will be the most significant sign of Turkey's confidence in looking to the new century, and in many ways, the most meaningful measure of your progress.'' ''We agree with something that was never said more clearly than by the founder of the Turkish Republic... sovereignty should not be built on fear. Neither America nor Europe not anyone else has the right to shape your destiny for your. Only you have that right; that, after all, is what democracy is all about. We raise these issues because for all the reasons I have mentioned. We have a profound interest in your success and we consider ourselves your friends,'' said Clinton.

[113] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[114] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that when writers and journalists freely express themselves, they exercise not only a fundamental right, but fuel the exchange of ideals essential to prosperity and growth. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''in our own troubled century, about to close, we have clearly learned that when writers and journalists freely express themselves, they exercise not only a fundamental right, but fuel the exchange of ideals essential to prosperity and growth.'' ''When peaceful outlets exist to express normal human differences, the peace is preserved, not shattered. When people can celebrate their culture and faith in ways that do not infringe upon the rights of others, moderates do not become extremists ,and extremists do not become misguided heroes,'' Clinton said.

[115] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[116] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that Turkey and Greece must work hard to reduce tension in the Aegean. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''A second way to shape the future lies in reducing tension in the Aegean -- something that will require hard work by both Turkey and Greece.'' Stating that he appreciated how much history lies behind this troubled relationship, Clinton said, ''But people are beginning to see the posssibilities that can be created by a new by a new and better history. Prime minister Ecevit's government has taken important strides in that direction. I agree with something he once said to me: there is just as much as history and geography uniting you across the Aegean as there is dividing you.'' ''Greece is also taking some risks for peace and recognizing as never before that Turkey's destiny lies in Europe. You came together to promote stability in Balkans, something that was infairness, far more difficult for them to do than for Turkey or the United States,'' Clinton said. Clinton said, ''The people of both nations were movingly joined again when tragedy struck you both in the form of earthquakes, first in August and then, horribly again last week. Every person who lost o loved one or a home to those earthquakes knows that there was no such thing then as a Turkish or a Greek tragedy, they were human tragedy's, and the world will never forget the humanity each nation displayed toward the other.''

[117] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[118] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that ''We must work hard to reach a just settlement in Cyprus.'' Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''I am very pleased that yesterday the parties accepted Secretary General Annan's invitation to start proximity talks in New York on December 3rd. Their goal is to prepare the ground for meaningful negotiations, leading to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem. I hope these talks will bring us a step closer to lasting peace. I believe a negotiated settlement is the best way to meet the fundamental interests of all the parties, including real security for all Cypriots and an end to the island's division.''

[119] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[120] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that a Europe that is undivided, democratic and at peace for the first time in all of history will never be complete unless and until it embraces Turkey. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, '' ''Finally, the future we want to build together will require foresight on the part of our other allies in Europe -- the foresight to see that our vision of a Europe that is undivided, democratic and at peace for the first time in all of history will never be complete unless and until it embraces Turkey.'' ''The United States is not a member of the European Union, but I have consistently urged European integration to move further and faster -- and that includes Turkey,'' he added. Clinton said, ''There are still those who see Europe in narrower terms. Their Europe might stop at this mountain range or that body of water or, worse, where people stopped to worship God in a different way. But there is a growing and encouraging consensus that knows Europe is an idea as much as a place -- the idea that people can find strength in diversity of opinions, cultures and faiths, as long as they are commonly committed to democracy and human rights; the idea that people can be united without being uniform, and that if the community we loosely refer to as the West is an idea, it has no fixed frontiers. It stretches as far as the frontiers of freedom can go.'' Clinton added, ''Ten years ago this month, the Berlin Wall tumbled, a curtain lifted across Europe. The best way to celebrate that anniversary is to rekindle the feeling of liberation for a new generation. The best way to complete the unity glimpsed in 1989 is to integrate all of Southeastern Europe into the idea and institutions of Europe in 1999 and the years ahead. That means democracy in Serbia. It means peace in the Aegean. It means a successful democratic Turkey fully welcomed into the European community.'' ''At the beginning of this new century in which we have so much hope, there is great optimism for both our countries. We have much to be proud of, but we must never forget that Turkey is built on the ruins of many ancient civilizations that once were every bit as optimistic as we are today. To avoid their fate, we must back up our words and our hopes with deeds. We must acknowledge the challenges still before us. We must not relinquish the confidence that brought us everything in this century as it becomes our history, but we must not lose the humility that this century's great troubles leave to every thinking person,'' said Clinton. Clinton said, ''Turkey has come so far over so many barriers in so short a time. It was, after all, only 61 years ago this week that Ataturk died. Prime Minister Ecevit was one of the schoolchildren who filed into the palace to pay their respects to the fallen leader. All of you are the youth he advised in his most unselfish mandate near the end: to continue to think for yourselves, to always re-examine your beliefs and to reshape democracy, generation after generation after generation.'' ''What Turkey has generated in this century is a living example of what all people can do to claim a better destiny for themselves. A new century now lies untested before us. It is an enormous opportunity. By deepening the democratic revolution embodied by, and still emanating from, this very chamber, Turkey can do more than serve its own people well. By your example and your exertion, you can truly inspire the world,'' said Clinton.

[121] CEREMONY NOT HELD WHEN CLINTON ARRIVED AT PARLIAMENT DUE TO SECURITY
REASONS
[122] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - A ceremony was not held when U.S. President Bill Clinton arrived at the parliament due to the security reasons. Clinton arrived at the parliament at 3.50 p.m. on Monday under tight security measures. Parliament Speaker Yildirim Akbulut and Foreign Minister Ismail Cem welcomed Clinton at the parliament. Later, Clinton and Akbulut had a meeting which lasted for nearly 25 minutes. Clinton and Akbulut entered in the Parliamentary General Assembly Hall after their meeting. The snipers and the policemen were situated in the roof of the parliament. Before Clinton arrived at the hall, a group of Americans including U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Marc Grossman, U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Mark Parris took their places in the protocol lodge. Later, Bill Clinton's wife Hillary Clinton and daughter Chelsea Clinton arrived at the hall. A group of Americans including the U.S. soldiers, also took their places at the hall. Vecdi Gonul, Acting Parliament Speaker, asked Huseyin Celik, a deputy from the True Path Party (DYP) who was speaking at the moment, to adjourn his speech since Clinton was ready to enter into the hall. All the deputies except some deputies from the Virtue Party (FP), all the other participants applauded Clinton when he entered into the general assembly hall at 4.20 p.m. Clinton's words praising Ataturk were applauded by most of the deputies. Clinton's speech was spontaneously translated for the deputies. Bill Clinton became the first U.S. President who addressed the Turkish parliament. Extraordinarily tight security measures were taken when Clinton arrived at the Parliament. No vehicles were accepted to the parliament since early this morning. Those who entered into the parliament were checked. Many electronical security gates were placed in the entrance of the parliament. Not only the Turkish security personnel, but also many U.S. security personnel were ready at the parliament before Clinton came. Following the speech, Clinton, his wife and daughter took a photograph with Akbulut and his wife. Later, Clinton, his wife and daughter left the parliament.

[123] TRNC PRESIDENT DENKTAS: ''WE HOPE A CONFEDERATION WILL BE ESTABLISHED
IN THE END OF THE INDIRECT MEETINGS''
[124] LEFKOSA, Nov 15 (A.A) - Rauf Denktas, the President of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), said on Monday that they hope a confederation based on the principle of two states will be established in the end of the indirect meetings. Denktas received the members of the Alliance of Turkish Republics News Agencies (TKA). They had decided to start the talks which could not be started for years, on December 3, 1999; Denktas recalled. Denktas noted that there are two different nations on Cyprus and a republic of two partners was established in 1960. This republic collapsed three years later because the Greek Cypriots wanted to possess whole of Cyprus, Denktas stated. Denktas stressed that the Turkish Cypriots ruled themselves for 36 years and have been administrating their own state for 16 years. By establishing their state, they showed the Greek Cypriots that the Greek Cypriots are not the state of the Turks and will never be and that they will not be a colony of the world, Denktas emphasized. Denktas recalled the words of Glafcos Clerides, the leader of the Greek Cypriot side, who said in 1997 that he knew that he was not the government of the Turkish Cypriots. They expect the world to accept the realities and say the Greek Cypriots that they are not the government of the Turkish Cypriots, Denktas pointed out. Denktas said, ''we exist. You come and see that we exist. We will be pleased if you say that we exist and we will not disappear when you return to your countries.'' Later, the delegation was received by TRNC Parliament Speaker Ertugrul Hasipoglu, TRNC Prime Minister Dervis Eroglu and TRNC Foreign and Defense Minister Tahsin Ertugruloglu. The TKA General Assembly Meeting will start in Lefkosa on Tuesday.

[125] THE U.S. PRESIDENT ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[126] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - U.S. President Bill Clinton praised Turkey on Monday for impressive momentum in improving its human rights record and declared strong support for Turkish membership in the European Union as a key to ensuring peace and stability in this region in the 21st century. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said ''I have come to express America's solidarity with the Turkish people at a time of national tragedy, and to reaffirm our partnership for a common future. We have been friends for a very long time.'' ''In 1863, the first American college outside the U.S., Robert College, opened its doors to the youth of Turkey. It was the only foreign institution allowed along the Bosphorus, precisely because America had never encroached upon Turkish sovereignty. I am very proud that Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit is an alumnus of Robert College,'' said Clinton. ''Earlier in this century, the great founder of the Turkish Republic, Kemal Ataturk, captured America's imagination with his bold reforms. He was called a second George Washington. He appeared on the cover of ''Our Time'' magazine. He corresponded with members of our Congress. And we moved our embassy here to Ankara, the capital of his new republic,'' he added. Clintod said, ''In 1927, in a six-day speech before his body, Ataturk surveyed Turkey's relations with the countries of the world. And he paid America what I believe was a compliment when he said, 'The U.S. is more acceptable than the rest'.'' ''At the dawn of the Cold War, President Truman committed America's resources to protect Turkey's sovereignty. The Truman Doctrine seatled our partnership, and laid the basis for the Marshall Plan and for America's entire postwar engagement with the rest of the world. Over 50 years, now, our alliance has stood the test of time, and passed every other test, from Korea to Kosovo. On behalf of all Americans, I thank ou for half a century of friendship, mutual respect and partnership,'' said Clinton. Clinton added, ''Since the Cold War ended, we have learned something quite wonderful. We have learned that our friendship does not depend upon a common concern with the Soviet Union, and that in fact, in the post-Cold War era, our partnership has become even more important. Together we are adapting NATO to the demands of a new century. We are developing new sources of energy to help the entire region. Last year, our trade was over 6 billion U.S. dollars. It has risen 50 percent in the last five years alone.''

[127] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[128] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that Turkey has become an engine of regional growth thanks to the vision of former President, Turgut Ozal, the continuing leadership of President Demirel, and Prime Minister Ecevit, and the dynamism of the Turkish people. Speaking in the parliament, Clinton said, ''In the months ahead, together we will launch new projects worth billions of dollars, mostly in the energy sector, to bring jobs to Turkey and to bring our two nations even closer.'' ''This assembly has taken bold steps to lead Turkey into the new century. I want the American press to listen to this: Between June and September, this assembly passed remarkable 69 laws. I'm going to tell our Congress about that when I get home. But, I will say this: It is not just the quantity of those laws that count, it is the quality. Landmark legislation on Social Security, an international arbitration law, banking reform --- laws that took courage and vision. Now, you face a difficult budget decision that requires courage and vision. If you do pass a sound budget, it will strengthen your economy and advance the prospects of a standby IMF agreement, something the United States strongly supports.''

[129] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[130] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that he believed Turkey's future will be critical to shaping the 21st century. Speaking in Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''On the edge of a new millennium, we have a rare opportunity to reflect upon our journey --- two nations that started in very different places, with a shared commitment to democracy, who now must forge a partnership relevant to the new era.'' ''In a sense, we are all here today because of Kemal Ataturk. Not only because he chose Ankara to be the capital, not only because he chose Ankara to be your capital, but because he pledged Turkey's future to the democracy symbolized by this proud assembly. Ironically, he accomplished much of what he did with no help from the western powers. Indeed, against the opposition of most them. Many tried to carve up Turkey, to reduce it to a rump state. In the face of this, however, Ataturk responded not by closing Turkey up, but by opening Turkey to the rest of the world, a decision for which we must all be very grateful,''Clinton said. ''For better and for worse, the events of that time when the Ottoman Empire disintegrated and a new Turkey arose have shaped the history of this entire century. From Bulgaria to Albania to Israel to Arabia, new nations were born, and a century of conflict erupted from the turmoil of shifting borders, unrealized ambitions, and old hatreds beginning with the first Balkan War and World War I, all the way to today's struggles in the Middle East and in the former Yugoslavia. Turkey's past is key to understanding the 20th century. But, more importantly, I believe Turkey's future will be critical to shaping the 21st century.'' Clinton added. Clinton said, ''Since people have been able to draw maps, they have pointed out the immutable fact of Turkey's geography that Asia Minor is a bridge between continents. Less than a kilometer separates Europe from Asia at the nearest point along the Bosphorus. And, in reality, there is no separation at all, thanks to the bridges you have built, to the commerce that spans Turkey every day to the communications revolution that links all parts of the world instantaneously.'' ''Turkey's ability to bridge East and West is all the more important when another fact of Turkey's geography is considered. You are almost entirely surrounded by neighbors who are either activelyhostile to democracy and peace, or struggling against great obstacles to embrace democracy and peace. To the southeast, Iran is witnessing a remarkable debate between proponents of a closed and open society, while Iraq continues to repress its people, threaten its neighbors, and seek weapons of mass destruction. I thank Turkey for its support of Operation Northern Watch, which allows us to deter Saddam's aggression, protect the people of northern Iraq, and avoid another refugee crisis like the one you so courageously met in 1991,'' Clinton said. He added, ''To the south, the Middle East is still roiled with violence but blessed with an historic opportunity to build a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. Turkey is a force for that peace as well, through its ties to Israel and Arab states.'' ''To the northwest lie the Balkans, where in the last decade seven new democracies have been born, and four wars have claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. Turkish forces in NATO helped to end those wars, and thus to end this century with a powerful affirmation of human dignity and human rights. Today we are working side by side for an enduring peace in the Balkans, one which not only ends ethnic cleansing, but builds genuine cooperation, progress and prosperity,'' he said. ''To the east, 12 independent nations have emerged from the ruins of the Soviet empire. There is no more important challenge today than helping them to develop stable, independent, democratic societies. Turkey here also has been a leader, reaching out in particular to nations that share ties of language, culture and history,'' said Clinton.

[131] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[132] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that ''We must help Russia to complete its momentous democratic revolution.'' Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''We must be clear with Russia that its fight against terrorism is right, but that the use of indiscriminate force against civilians is wrong, likely to exacerbate the very tensions Russia wants to resolve. We must keep working together to resolve the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. We must secure the region's energy resources in a way that protects the Bosphorus, helps newly free states to stand on their feet, empowers Turkey and Europe's future growth. We'll have a chance to address all these challenges when nearly a third of the world's nations gather at the OSCE summit in Istanbul this week.'' ''When we step back and look ahead, it is possible to imagine two very different futures over the next generation. Without too much trouble, a pessimist might foresee a dark future, indeed: a Middle East with the peace process shattered, Saddam's aggression unchecked, democracy collapsed in the Caucasus in Central Asia, extremism and terror spreading across the region, more violence in the Balkans, military coups, unstoppable nuclear tension in Pakistan and India,'' Clinson said, adding that, ''But there is another vision --- one that requires a strong Turkey playing its rightful role at the crossroads of the world, at the meeting place of three great faits. It is possible to see that brighter future: one of rising prosperity and declining conflict; one in which tolerance is an article of faith, and terrorism is seen, rightly, as a travesty of faith; a future in which people are free to pursue their beliefs and proclaim their heritage, in which women are treated with equal respect; in which nations see no contradiction between preserving traditions and participating in the life of the world, a future of growing respect for human rights that protect our differences and our common humanity; and, specifically, a future in which nations that are predominantly Muslim are increasingly partners with nations that are not, acting in concert in ways, large and small, to realize the shared hopes of their people.'' ''I hope that the next time an American President addresses a nation with a Muslim tradition, he will be able to say that the progress of Indonesia and Nigeria and Morocco, all very different nations, has helped all of us put the lie to the tired claim an inherent clash of civilizations. As Ataturk said 75 years ago, '' countries vary, but civilization is one.'' President Kennedy said the same thing in Berlin when he said 'freedom is indivisible','' Clinton said.

[133] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[134] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that progress on human rights will be the most significant sign of Turkey's confidence in looking to the new century, and in many ways, the most meaningful measure of its progress. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National assembly, Clinton said, ''there are now billions of people around the region and the world whose future depends upon decision made in this very room over the next 25 years. Each has a stake in Turkey's sucess in defining itself as a strong, secular, modern nation proud of its traditions, fully part of Europe. That will require Ozal's reforms, through the actions of this assembly, through the thousands of ways in which the Turkish people daily are forging an energetic and responsive civil society.'' ''The future we want to build together begins with Turkish progress in deepening democracy at home. Nobody wants this more against torture in a new law that protects the rights of political parties, in the achievements and vitality of this assembly. Avenues are opening for Kurdish citizens of Turkey to reclaim that most basic of birth rights... a normal life,'' Clinton said. He added, ''But there still is far more to be done to realize the promise of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, articulate at the very moment our two countries entered into close relations 50 years ago. That progress will be the most significant sign of Turkey's confidence in looking to the new century, and in many ways, the most meaningful measure of your progress.'' ''We agree with something that was never said more clearly than by the founder of the Turkish Republic... sovereignty should not be built on fear. Neither America nor Europe not anyone else has the right to shape your destiny for your. Only you have that right; that, after all, is what democracy is all about. We raise these issues because for all the reasons I have mentioned. We have a profound interest in your success and we consider ourselves your friends,'' said Clinton.

[135] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[136] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that when writers and journalists freely express themselves, they exercise not only a fundamental right, but fuel the exchange of ideals essential to prosperity and growth. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''in our own troubled century, about to close, we have clearly learned that when writers and journalists freely express themselves, they exercise not only a fundamental right, but fuel the exchange of ideals essential to prosperity and growth.'' ''When peaceful outlets exist to express normal human differences, the peace is preserved, not shattered. When people can celebrate their culture and faith in ways that do not infringe upon the rights of others, moderates do not become extremists ,and extremists do not become misguided heroes,'' Clinton said.

[137] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[138] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that Turkey and Greece must work hard to reduce tension in the Aegean. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''A second way to shape the future lies in reducing tension in the Aegean -- something that will require hard work by both Turkey and Greece.'' Stating that he appreciated how much history lies behind this troubled relationship, Clinton said, ''But people are beginning to see the posssibilities that can be created by a new by a new and better history. Prime minister Ecevit's government has taken important strides in that direction. I agree with something he once said to me: there is just as much as history and geography uniting you across the Aegean as there is dividing you.'' ''Greece is also taking some risks for peace and recognizing as never before that Turkey's destiny lies in Europe. You came together to promote stability in Balkans, something that was infairness, far more difficult for them to do than for Turkey or the United States,'' Clinton said. Clinton said, ''The people of both nations were movingly joined again when tragedy struck you both in the form of earthquakes, first in August and then, horribly again last week. Every person who lost o loved one or a home to those earthquakes knows that there was no such thing then as a Turkish or a Greek tragedy, they were human tragedy's, and the world will never forget the humanity each nation displayed toward the other.''

[139] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[140] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that ''We must work hard to reach a just settlement in Cyprus.'' Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, ''I am very pleased that yesterday the parties accepted Secretary General Annan's invitation to start proximity talks in New York on December 3rd. Their goal is to prepare the ground for meaningful negotiations, leading to a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem. I hope these talks will bring us a step closer to lasting peace. I believe a negotiated settlement is the best way to meet the fundamental interests of all the parties, including real security for all Cypriots and an end to the island's division.''

[141] U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON ADRESSES THE PARLIAMENT
[142] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - The U.S. President Bill Clinton said on Monday that a Europe that is undivided, democratic and at peace for the first time in all of history will never be complete unless and until it embraces Turkey. Speaking at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, Clinton said, '' ''Finally, the future we want to build together will require foresight on the part of our other allies in Europe -- the foresight to see that our vision of a Europe that is undivided, democratic and at peace for the first time in all of history will never be complete unless and until it embraces Turkey.'' ''The United States is not a member of the European Union, but I have consistently urged European integration to move further and faster -- and that includes Turkey,'' he added. Clinton said, ''There are still those who see Europe in narrower terms. Their Europe might stop at this mountain range or that body of water or, worse, where people stopped to worship God in a different way. But there is a growing and encouraging consensus that knows Europe is an idea as much as a place -- the idea that people can find strength in diversity of opinions, cultures and faiths, as long as they are commonly committed to democracy and human rights; the idea that people can be united without being uniform, and that if the community we loosely refer to as the West is an idea, it has no fixed frontiers. It stretches as far as the frontiers of freedom can go.'' Clinton added, ''Ten years ago this month, the Berlin Wall tumbled, a curtain lifted across Europe. The best way to celebrate that anniversary is to rekindle the feeling of liberation for a new generation. The best way to complete the unity glimpsed in 1989 is to integrate all of Southeastern Europe into the idea and institutions of Europe in 1999 and the years ahead. That means democracy in Serbia. It means peace in the Aegean. It means a successful democratic Turkey fully welcomed into the European community.'' ''At the beginning of this new century in which we have so much hope, there is great optimism for both our countries. We have much to be proud of, but we must never forget that Turkey is built on the ruins of many ancient civilizations that once were every bit as optimistic as we are today. To avoid their fate, we must back up our words and our hopes with deeds. We must acknowledge the challenges still before us. We must not relinquish the confidence that brought us everything in this century as it becomes our history, but we must not lose the humility that this century's great troubles leave to every thinking person,'' said Clinton. Clinton said, ''Turkey has come so far over so many barriers in so short a time. It was, after all, only 61 years ago this week that Ataturk died. Prime Minister Ecevit was one of the schoolchildren who filed into the palace to pay their respects to the fallen leader. All of you are the youth he advised in his most unselfish mandate near the end: to continue to think for yourselves, to always re-examine your beliefs and to reshape democracy, generation after generation after generation.'' ''What Turkey has generated in this century is a living example of what all people can do to claim a better destiny for themselves. A new century now lies untested before us. It is an enormous opportunity. By deepening the democratic revolution embodied by, and still emanating from, this very chamber, Turkey can do more than serve its own people well. By your example and your exertion, you can truly inspire the world,'' said Clinton.

[143] PRESIDENT DEMIREL DECORATES U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON WITH MEDAL OF
HONOUR

[144] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Monday that the devotion and belief in democracy, freedom, and peace formed the ground of the solidarity and friendship between Turkey and the U.S. President Demirel decorated U.S. President Bill Clinton with the medal of honour. Addressing the ceremony, President Demirel said, ''the State Medal of Honour is given to the presidents of the countries which help the improvement of the friendly relations with Turkey and which help bringing the two nations closer.'' He expressed great pleasure over decorating President Clinton the with the ''Medal of Honour''. President Demirel quoted President Clinton who addressed to the the German people on July 12, 1994 to mark the collapse of Berlin Wall as saying, ''the Berlin Wall collapsed. Now, our generation should decide what to build instead of the Berlin Wall. As I am standing here, I can see the answer of this question. We should build a new Europe instead of the Berlin Wall. A Europe where all countries are independent, democratic, and prosperous. We should take under guarantee our security not by buildings walls, but by building bridges. It should be a Europe where our children will be able to use overall opportunities and talents which God granted them, and where they will be able to foster their children in peace and hope.'' Demirel said that these words reflect a democrat, integrated and peaceful and prosperous European ideal which carries efforts as the community of democracies in the post- Cold War Era. Demirel continued, ''as being the members of the community of democracies which gained victory with the collapse of Berlin Wall which is the ugliest reflection of totalitarianism, we see a determination which looks at the future with hope in the words of Clinton.'' Clinton realized with common sense that the path of a lasting peace, economic welfare and security in the 21st century depends on investing in the basic fields like education, health and data technologies, Demirel noted. Demirel stated that Clinton's administration gives priority to these fields. The investments made in these fields are the investments which are made for the future, Demirel stressed. Demirel emphasized that Clinton not only contributes to the improvement of the U.S. economy and welfare but also the international peace and security. Demirel added that Clinton's contributions to reach a peaceful solution in various disputes ranging from the Middle East peace process to Bosnia, from Northern Ireland peace process to Kosovo is not only the example of being an intelligent statesman but also an example of courage as former U.S. President John F. Kennedy had said.

[145] PRESIDENT DEMIREL DECORATES U.S. PRESIDENT CLINTON WITH MEDAL OF
HONOUR

[146] ANKARA, Nov 15 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel decorated U.S. President Bill Clinton with the medal of honour. Addressing the ceremony, President Clinton said, ''first of all, let me thank you for this beautiful Order of State Award. You know, in my country, they give you these awards normally when you are one step away from death. It is quite a wonderful thing to receive one when at least you still feel quite normal. And particularly, an award that symbolized our shared values and the long friendship between our two countries, one that goes back in many ways to the beginning of our country, and clearly for the last 50 years, back to the beginning of the Truman Doctrine and the commitment of the U.S. to the security and integrity of Turkey.'' ''In these last 50 years, we have been partners from Korea to Kosovo, against aggression and oppression, and as we look ahead to the future, we will have many opportunities for richer and deeper partnerships,'' Clinton said. ''I would just briefly observe that it is an irony of history that we are on the edge of a new millennium, which will be shaped by unbelievable advances in technology, an explosion in information, and great leaps forward in science. But the biggest problem the world has is that everywhere people are too much in the grip of the oldest difficulty of human societies: we still are prone to fear people who are different than ourselves,'' Clinton noted. He said, ''and so, all across the world, wee see ethnic, racial, religious conflicts. We see people remembering old reasons for geopolitical difficulties, when new opportunities for cooperation are staring them right in the face. And it is, for those of us who are moving into this new millenium, to leave our children a more unified vision of human society, and of human cooperation across national lines, one that gives all children, without regard to their station or birth, a chance to live up to their dreams --- boys and girls alike; Muslims, Jews, Christians alike; people who come from any part of the world.'' Clinton also added, ''I hope that we can be faithful --- Turkey and the United States --- to the ideals and dreams of our founders and, together, leave that legacy of a unifying version of human life.''

A.A

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