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Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-10-02
AA Daily
2 October 1999 Saturday
CONTENTS
[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN
[02] These are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in
Turkey's press on October 2, 1999. The Anadolu Ajansi does not verify these
stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.
[03] HURRIYET (LIBERAL) - ------------------ THE NEW YORK TIMES: SAKIP
SABANCI, CHAMPION OF INDUSTRY The New York Times described Sakip Sabanci as
the ''champion of industry and social development'' in an article it
carried on September 28. The article said Sabanci's American partners
always esteemed his hardwork. Sabanci is managing a family holding which
has partnerships with leading world compamies including DePont, Phillip
Morris, Toyota, Bekaert, and Internatioanl Paper. ''Executives of DuPont
are so satisfied with their partnership with Sabanci, they will build
factories in Brezil and Argentina with him,'' the article wrote.
[04] S-300's TO BE USED FOR THE FIRST TIME The S-300's missile system
deployed in Crete will be used for the first time on Saturday during
Nikiforos operation by the Greek Cypriot National Protection Army and Greek
Armed Forces. S-300's will provide effective protection for Greek war
planes in the operation which will be organized in Cyprus, Greek Cypriot
newspapers said .
[05] MILLIYET (LIBERAL) - ----------------- FIRST SURRENDER FROM PKK Eight
PKK members who obeyed Ocalan's call to lay down arms surrendered by
passing from Semdinli to Turkey. The group came with white flags and
weapons. Ali Sapan, the former head of PKK's European branch ERNK and three
women were also in the group. PKK members surrendered to benefit from the
Repentance Law.
[06] SECOND TENDER IN DISASTER REGION IS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE Ministry of
Public Works and Housing which announced the 50 trillion Turkish Liras
worth of prefabricated housing project some time ago is now working on an
infrastructure tender which includes sewege and water network. The 12
trillion Turkish Liras infrastructure tender was shared by Taskent, Yasar
Yapi, Okyanus, Ilsan, Cano, Hitit, Aks, Egesan, Mescioglu, Obitas, Anilcan
and Mintas construction firms. About the heating problem of prefabricated
dwellings, no agreement was reached between the Ministry of Public Works
and the Ministry of Energy.
[07] SABAH (LIBERAL) - -------------- ''WE SHOULD TAKE LESSON FROM AKUT''
President Suleyman Demirel, who addressed the opening ceremony of the
Parliament on Friday, said lessons should be taken from Search and Rescue
Team (AKUT). Demirel said ''we should be organized well as the state and
community to help each other against the disasters.'' Demirel said it is an
urgent need of the state to establish an effective civilian defense
organization and extend support to the volunteer institutions. Demirel
appreciated the success of AKUT and similar organizations and said ''we
should take lesson from them.''
[08] CUMHURIYET (LEFT) - ---------------- ECEVIT MEETS WITH ANNAN, THE U.N.
SECRETARY GENERAL Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit talked Cyprus issue with
Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary General in New York. Ecevit said Annan's
term of office was a ''chance for the world''. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister
Ismail Cem pointed out that Turkey's determination on Cyprus issue was
understood. Cem said ''nothing can be done in Cyprus ignoring our
sensitivity in Cyprus.''
[09] DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC IS COMPROMISE Farewell from President Suleyman
Demirel. President Suleyman Demirel, at the end of his speech which was
made due to the starting of new legislation year of the Parliament, said
''this is the eighth and last speech which I make as President'' and bid
farewell to the Parliamentarians. Demirel said the senate should be formed
again. In his speech, Demirel proposed a series of constitutional changes.
President Demirel stressed that Turkey should leave constitution
discussions in the past and realize structural reforms.
[10] RADIKAL (LEFT) - --------------- LAST LESSON FROM DEMIREL:''IF WE
REALIZE THE REFORMS, WE COULD BE AMONG THE MOST DEVELOPED TEN COUNTRIES IN
THE NEXT CENTURY'' President Demirel addressed the Parliament for the last
time. ''Turkey needs a better Constitution. Constitutional state is not an
unchanging structure, it has to be renewed continuously. People should
elect the President. The eight year mandatory education should be increased
to eleven years. Deputies' immunity should be removed. If we realize all
these reforms we can be one of the most developed ten countries in the
world in the next century,'' Demirel said to the Parliament.
[11] ISTANBUL ALONE WITH ITS FATE Only 800,000 out of 2 million buildings
in Istanbul are licenced. Therefore, those which doesn't have a licence
cannot be examined well. In order to assess the damage occured in the
buildings or to check the quality of their construction, buildings must
have a licence. Afife Batur, the President of Istanbul Architectures'
Chamber said 65 percent of Istanbul's buildings have been built illegally.
[12] TÜRKİYE (RIGHT) - ---------------- MESSAGES FROM DEMIREL President
Suleyman Demirel who addressed the opening of the Parliament, wanted the
reforms to be issued. Demirel pointed out the importance of renewal of
election system, constitutional change, and the structural reforms.
President Demirel said President should be chosen by people and that this
should take place with a two-tour elections. Demirel stressed that Turkey
should conclude privatization program worth of 100 billion U.S. dollars and
that the state should withdraw from economic life.
[13] BILL CLINTON TO COME TO TURKEY FOR A HOLIDAY The U.S. President Bill
Clinton, who will pay a visit to Turkey between November 14 and 19, will
play golf in southern Antalya province and will also participate in meeting
of Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Istanbul.
[14] ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE) - -------------------- OPERATIONS UNDER WAY A
total of 15 terrorists were rendered ineffective during the operations of
Turkish Armed Forces launched in Northern Iraq. Turkish soldiers who
entered to Iraqi territory from Uludere and Cukurca counties, surrounded
terrorists who sheltered in Haftanin region. War planes which took off from
southeastern Diyarbakir and Malatya provinces bombed the region. Cobra and
super cobra helicopters searched the region thoroughly. A total of 15
terrorists were killed so far.
[15] MESSAGE OF CONCERN FROM TURKEY Turkey expressed concern over the war
in Chechnya and pointed out that the problem should be solved urgently
through peaceful means. The statement issued by Turkey's Press Consultant
in Moscow Embassy, said developments in Chechnya was covered with concern
in Turkey and called on the problem to be solved with a constructive
dialogue.
[16] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT RETURNS TO TURKEY - ECEVIT: ''THIS VISIT ONCE
AGAIN PROVED THAT TURKEY AND THE U.S. ARE STRATEGICAL PARTNERS''
[17] ANKARA, October 2 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on
Saturday that his official visit to the U.S., which took place upon the
invitation of Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, was very positive, adding
that ''this visit once again showed that Turkey and the U.S. are
strategical partners.'' Addressing a news conference in Ankara's Esenboga
Airport, Ecevit briefed about his visit to the U.S. Noting that his five-
day official visit to the U.S. was very positive and that he held a very
fruitful meeting with Clinton, Ecevit said ''we have talked in a friendly
and sincere atmosphere that suits to two allies. We have discussed many
issues. We have thanked to them due to the support they extended following
the massive quake.'' Ecevit said ''we have agreed to strengthen both
economical and political relations.'' He said ''providing 108 million U.S.
dollar increase for two years in textile quotas given to Turkey can be a
positive development. Also, trade and investment agreement was signed. This
agreement has a quality to create a basis that can realize many concrete
projects. Willingness of the U.S. President to sent a group of businessmen
to search for the investment facilities in Southeastern Anatolia region is
pleasing for us.'' Pointing out the Bill Clinton, the U.S. President,
reiterated his full support to Baku-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline project, Ecevit
said they found appropriate to increase cooperation on Caspian passing
Natural Gas Pipeline Project. Ecevit said Clinton continued to support
Turkey's membership to the EU in an active way, noting that ''the U.S.
President once again pointed out that he supports our views regarding
European Defense and Security Identity.'' Ecevit said ''we have exchanged
views with Clinton on regional issues like Kosovo'', adding that they have
stressed the contribution of Turkish-U.S. cooperation in solution of
regional conflicts. Ecevit said the U.S. President Clinton felt pleasure
over the improvement in Turkish-Greek relations. Ecevit said they have seen
Clinton and the U.S. administration in a more realistic manner that is
forwarded to understand the views of Turkish Cypriots. Statement issued by
the U.S. side which pointed out that there could be no return to the status
quo on Cyprus to the pre-1974 period was a realistic approach. Prime
Minister Bulent Ecevit pointed out that during his meeting with Al Gore,
the U.S. Vice President, oil and natural gas pipelines were discussed and
added that they also took up development in the Caucasia. Noting that he
held separate meetings with the administrators of the World Bank and
International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ecevit said ''we have seen that economic
reforms covered by our country were welcomed. It is clear that our fruitful
cooperation with these institutions will continue increasingly.'' Ecevit
also said he held various meetings with Senate and Congress members, press
representatives, businessmen as well as Turkish community in the U.S. that
forms a friendship bridge between the two countries. Ecevit said statements
of two senators, during one of these meetings, created reaction in the
press and public, adding that ''these two people are spokesmen and
militants of Greek Cypriot lobby so far. I think, it will be wrong to
evaluate the inconvenient views of these people as the views of Senate or
the Representatives Assembly.'' PM Ecevit pointed out that the reforms
which Turkey initiated in economic and political field increased the
support of the U.S. to Turkey, adding that ''I have seen that fruitful
studies of our coalition government and its consistent attitudes created
appreciation. This was always stressed during the meetings we have
attended. I have also seen that harmonized studies of the Parliament
increased respect to a great extend.'' Noting that this visit once again
proved that Turkey and the U.S. were two strategical partners, Ecevit said
''our visit prepared base of close cooperation with our important ally.
This was a positive and fruitful visit. I am happy to return to home with a
positive impression.'' When a journalist asked the contents of the meeting
he held with Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary General, Ecevit said Annan was
an understanding and constructive person. He said ''it was a very
beneficial meeting. His interest to Cyprus question was natural, moreover,
this should be seen as a guarantee. Because he is a very understanding and
positive person.'' Responding to a question about his meeting with Henry
Kissinger, former U.S. Secretary of State and Kissinger's point of view
towards Cyprus question, Ecevit said Turkey announced its views regarding
Cyprus issue to the world public ''yet, we have seen that our views to this
end are evaluated in a gradually understanding way in the world.'' Devlet
Bahceli, Deputy Prime Minister, Cumhur Ersumer, Minister of Energy and
Natural Resources, Foreign Minister Ismail Cem, and Ahmet Kenan Tanrikulu,
Minister of Industry and Trade, also participated in the news conference.
[18] MOSES, CLINTON'S CYPRUS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE TO VISIT ANKARA AND
ATHENS NEXT WEEK
[19] WASHINGTON, D.C October 2 (A.A) - Ahmet Erdengiz, the Washington, D.C.
Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) said he
hoped Alfred Moses, Clinton's Special Cyprus Representative, would return
to the U.S. realizing that there was no favorable grounds to call for a
meeting between the Greek and Turkish side of the Cyprus, following his
contacts in Ankara and Athens next week. Erdengiz told A.A that Moses'
visits are important because the the U.N. Secretary General will invite
both sides according to the results of the report prepared by Moses after
his visits. ''First the necessary grounds should be formed, later meetings
can start between the two states,'' Erdengiz said. Despite the attitude of
the Turkish side, the U.N. Secretary General called on two sides for a
meeting, Erdengiz noted and said ignoring realities would not be good. The
U.S. wants to understand the situation in Cyprus very well, and acts
cautiously by sending Moses the the island, he said and added that ''he
hoped Moses would stop a negative move that might occur''.
[20] PM ECEVIT: ''TURKEY IS A EUROPEAN COUNTRY ALTHOUGH THE FULL MEMBERSHIP
DOOR IS CLOSED''
[21] NEW YORK, October 2 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on
Friday that ''Turkey is a European country although the door of full
membership is closed for now.'' Addressing a dinner which was jointly
staged by Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen Association (TUSIAD) and
U.S. Foreign Policy Association, Ecevit said Turkey beloged to the Balkans,
eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, Caucasia and Asia as well as Europe.
The U.S. businessmen and diplomats were also at the dinner. Pointing out
that Turkis-U.S. relations were based more solid grounds and encouraging
for future especially following the end of cold war, Ecevit said ''we have
developed a strategic relation with our American friends forwarded to
future. Peace, stability, democratization and welfare will be taken under
guarantee in the region in the future due to this relation.'' Stressing
that economic and trade relations between the two countries should be
increased to a higher level due to the potential and values shared by the
two countries, Ecevit thanked to the support the U.S. extended following
the massive earthquake which hit Marmara region. Pointing out that the
quake revealed the joint fate between Turkey and Greece, Ecevit said
''Turkey and Greece always improved positive relations if they are left
alone.'' Ecevit, who mentioned about terrorism issue, noted that
''terrorism which escalated for 15 years negatively effected our reform
efforts.'
[22] GOKALP, MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS: ''TURKEY WILL GIVE
NECESSARY IMPORTANCE TO ECOLOGIC AGRICULTURE''
[23] ANKARA, October 2 (A.A) - Husnu Yusuf Gokalp, the Minister of
Agriculture and Rural Affairs, said that there was a big shift towards
ecologic agriculture in the world in the recent years and Turkey also
started necessary works in this field, it was reported on Saturday.
Ecologic agriculture does not harm nature, plants, animals and human health
in all its stages, Gokalp said. Climate conditions, the thinning of the
ozone layer, environmental pollution and many other factors accelerated the
shift to ecologic agriculture, the Minister explained. ''There is a big
inclination towards ecologic agriculture and its products in the world. We
are also working on the same field in Turkey. Our country possesses the
conditions favourable for ecologic agriculture. Some developments on this
field have been observed in Turkey in recent years. However, they are not
sufficient. A total of 67 kinds of ecologic products were grown in our
country in 1998. Last year 8,199 producers obtained 99,300 tons of ecologic
products. More than 19,000 tons of this has been exported, some of it was
kept as frozen and some if it was processed,''Gokalp briefed. The Minsiter
also said they had difficulties to overcome in the marketing ecological
products. While foreign markets remain limited, the local market for
ecological products is almost non-existent, Gokalp noted and said his
ministry started to work to remove these obstacles.
[24] U.S. BUSINESSMEN TO VISIT SANLIURFA IN OCTOBER
[25] SANLIURFA, October 2 (A.A) - A U.S. team headed by Mark Parris, the
U.S. Ambassador in Ankara will come to Sanliurfa on October 20 after Prime
Minister Bulent Ecevit brought up the issue of Southeast development during
his U.S. visit. Ismail Demirkol, the Chairman of Sanliurfa Trade and
Industry Chamber told A.A that the U.S. started taking concrete steps in
its investments in southeast Turkey. ''There will be high level authorities
from the U.S. Eximbank and the semi-official finance institution OPIC. The
whole delegation will be formed by businessmen. We will discuss how to turn
the Southeast to an investment base,'' Demirkol explained. Businessmen of
Sanliurfa are ready for any kind of cooperation with the U.S. businessmen,
he noted and said the development in the region would gain acceleration
with the investments and cooperation of the U.S. businessmen.
[26] EVALUATION MEETING FOLLOWING MARMARA QUAKE - TANTAN, INTERIOR
MINISTER: ''THE SYSTEM TO CONTINUE IN A DISCIPLINED WAY WITHIN THE
FRAMEWORK OF MEASURES THAT ARE TAKEN''
[27] SAKARYA, October 2 (A.A) - Sadettin Tantan, Minister of Interior, said
on Saturday that several illegal forces worked for their own political
interests, ''yet'', he added ''continuation of system with discipline is
provided with the measures that are taken.'' Addressing a meeting where
efforts following the massive earthquake in Marmara region are evaluated,
Tantan said during the works that were launched so far they tried to
overcome the deficiencies and targetted carrying out services in a planned
way. Tantan said all demands calling for settlement of quake victims to
appropriate houses, providing their foodstuff and clothings will be
evaluated, adding that ''our efforts to this end continues. We will take
all constructive proposals into consideration.'' Pointing out that
according to the related law, the money that was collected should be
transferred to Disaster Fund and that aid in cash should be given to Red
Crescent, Tantan said non-governmental organization made arrangements to
extend support to people.
[28] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER DISTRIBUTE INFORMATIVE
BOOKLETS ABOUT EARTHQUAKE
[29] YALOVA, October 2 (A.A) - While efforts continue to heal the wounds of
the disastrous earthquake of August 17, the Prime Ministry Crisis
Management Center is distributing informative booklets to people in the
region. Four booklets titled ''In the Earthquake Region'' are telling
people what they could do when they face earthquake related problems. The
books, each consisted of 20 pages, also include aids, legal rights, health
and education services, work life and social security services and services
for the handicapped in disaster areas.
[30] CITICI, THE CHIEF PUBLIC PROSECUTOR OF ISTANBUL: ''WE ARE TAKING ALL
REQUIRED MEASURES, AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO''
[31] ISTANBUL, October 2 (A.A) - Ferzan Citici, the Chief Public Prosecutor
of Istanbul, said on Saturday that he could not say they have total control
over prisons at the moment, adding that ''we are taking all required
measures and will continue to do so. We will tighten measures.'' Citici,
who participated in a meeting staged by Istanbul Bar Human Rights Center
and Human Rights Jurists Committee, responded to the questions of
journalists regarding the incidents in prisons. Stressing that they did not
make an agreement, protocol or bargaining with the prisoners to put an end
to incidents, Citici said ''they had proposals and we evaluated them. We
met with our Justice Ministry. They have found some of the proposals as
appropriate and the actions were ended.'' When asked what would happen if
there was not an agreement, Citici said ''incidents in prisons would
increase and there would be bloodshed. I think we have prevented this.''
When recalled the allegations that weapons were found in Bayrampasa prison,
Citici said ''we have no information that there was weapons in Bayrampasa
Prison. Other than that, three controls have been made since the
incidents.'' Responding to a question related with the administrative
investigation launched related with the killing of seven people in
Bayrampasa Prison, Citici said ''Justice Ministry commission decided to lay
off those who neglected their duties. Also, required administrative
procedure will be applied on those people.'' Responding to another question
Citici said developments in Ankara Ulucanlar Prison were the reason of the
incidents in Bayrampasa prision. When asked if they have total control over
the situation in prison, Citici said they did not. He said ''we are taking
required measures and we will continue to do so.'' Pointing out that the
measures were taken within the framework of regulations and by-laws, Citici
said ''our problem stems from the physical structure of prisons, uneducated
personel and financial inadequacy. I believe that there will not be
incidents if ward system is quit. I think prisons should be controlled
through electronic systems. Establishment of electronic system especially
in Bayrampasa Prison is in question.'' When asked about the developments
that may happen if Amnesty Law is not issued, Citici said ''all the
prisoners have expectations from this amnesty. If their expectations are
not realized, there may be disappointment. It is not possible to predict
what they would do after that.''
[32] KDP DENIES NEWS REPORTS THAT THE PARTY PREVENTS THE TERRORISTS THAT
WILL SURRENDER TO TURKEY
[33] ANKARA, October 2 (A.A) - Iraqi Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) on
Saturday denied the news reports which appeared in media saying that KDP
prevented a group of terrorists which were getting prepared to surrender to
Turkish officials. A statement issued by KDP Ankara Representation said KDP
did not create an obstacle before the terrorists who will surrender, and
that they did not prevent those people and that they were not a side to
this initiative of terrorist organization. Pointing out that Northern Iraq
has 350-km border with Turkey, the statement said members of terrorist
organization who wanted to return to Turkey may use whichever enterance
point they want. The statement also denied the news reports that peshmergas
participated in the cross border operation of Turkey and that Turkish
forces made a comprehensive passing to Northern Iraq.
[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN
[02] These are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in
Turkey's press on October 2, 1999. The Anadolu Ajansi does not verify these
stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.
[03] HURRIYET (LIBERAL) - ------------------ THE NEW YORK TIMES: SAKIP
SABANCI, CHAMPION OF INDUSTRY The New York Times described Sakip Sabanci as
the ''champion of industry and social development'' in an article it
carried on September 28. The article said Sabanci's American partners
always esteemed his hardwork. Sabanci is managing a family holding which
has partnerships with leading world compamies including DePont, Phillip
Morris, Toyota, Bekaert, and Internatioanl Paper. ''Executives of DuPont
are so satisfied with their partnership with Sabanci, they will build
factories in Brezil and Argentina with him,'' the article wrote.
[04] S-300's TO BE USED FOR THE FIRST TIME The S-300's missile system
deployed in Crete will be used for the first time on Saturday during
Nikiforos operation by the Greek Cypriot National Protection Army and Greek
Armed Forces. S-300's will provide effective protection for Greek war
planes in the operation which will be organized in Cyprus, Greek Cypriot
newspapers said .
[05] MILLIYET (LIBERAL) - ----------------- FIRST SURRENDER FROM PKK Eight
PKK members who obeyed Ocalan's call to lay down arms surrendered by
passing from Semdinli to Turkey. The group came with white flags and
weapons. Ali Sapan, the former head of PKK's European branch ERNK and three
women were also in the group. PKK members surrendered to benefit from the
Repentance Law.
[06] SECOND TENDER IN DISASTER REGION IS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE Ministry of
Public Works and Housing which announced the 50 trillion Turkish Liras
worth of prefabricated housing project some time ago is now working on an
infrastructure tender which includes sewege and water network. The 12
trillion Turkish Liras infrastructure tender was shared by Taskent, Yasar
Yapi, Okyanus, Ilsan, Cano, Hitit, Aks, Egesan, Mescioglu, Obitas, Anilcan
and Mintas construction firms. About the heating problem of prefabricated
dwellings, no agreement was reached between the Ministry of Public Works
and the Ministry of Energy.
[07] SABAH (LIBERAL) - -------------- ''WE SHOULD TAKE LESSON FROM AKUT''
President Suleyman Demirel, who addressed the opening ceremony of the
Parliament on Friday, said lessons should be taken from Search and Rescue
Team (AKUT). Demirel said ''we should be organized well as the state and
community to help each other against the disasters.'' Demirel said it is an
urgent need of the state to establish an effective civilian defense
organization and extend support to the volunteer institutions. Demirel
appreciated the success of AKUT and similar organizations and said ''we
should take lesson from them.''
[08] CUMHURIYET (LEFT) - ---------------- ECEVIT MEETS WITH ANNAN, THE U.N.
SECRETARY GENERAL Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit talked Cyprus issue with
Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary General in New York. Ecevit said Annan's
term of office was a ''chance for the world''. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister
Ismail Cem pointed out that Turkey's determination on Cyprus issue was
understood. Cem said ''nothing can be done in Cyprus ignoring our
sensitivity in Cyprus.''
[09] DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC IS COMPROMISE Farewell from President Suleyman
Demirel. President Suleyman Demirel, at the end of his speech which was
made due to the starting of new legislation year of the Parliament, said
''this is the eighth and last speech which I make as President'' and bid
farewell to the Parliamentarians. Demirel said the senate should be formed
again. In his speech, Demirel proposed a series of constitutional changes.
President Demirel stressed that Turkey should leave constitution
discussions in the past and realize structural reforms.
[10] RADIKAL (LEFT) - --------------- LAST LESSON FROM DEMIREL:''IF WE
REALIZE THE REFORMS, WE COULD BE AMONG THE MOST DEVELOPED TEN COUNTRIES IN
THE NEXT CENTURY'' President Demirel addressed the Parliament for the last
time. ''Turkey needs a better Constitution. Constitutional state is not an
unchanging structure, it has to be renewed continuously. People should
elect the President. The eight year mandatory education should be increased
to eleven years. Deputies' immunity should be removed. If we realize all
these reforms we can be one of the most developed ten countries in the
world in the next century,'' Demirel said to the Parliament.
[11] ISTANBUL ALONE WITH ITS FATE Only 800,000 out of 2 million buildings
in Istanbul are licenced. Therefore, those which doesn't have a licence
cannot be examined well. In order to assess the damage occured in the
buildings or to check the quality of their construction, buildings must
have a licence. Afife Batur, the President of Istanbul Architectures'
Chamber said 65 percent of Istanbul's buildings have been built illegally.
[12] TÜRKİYE (RIGHT) - ---------------- MESSAGES FROM DEMIREL President
Suleyman Demirel who addressed the opening of the Parliament, wanted the
reforms to be issued. Demirel pointed out the importance of renewal of
election system, constitutional change, and the structural reforms.
President Demirel said President should be chosen by people and that this
should take place with a two-tour elections. Demirel stressed that Turkey
should conclude privatization program worth of 100 billion U.S. dollars and
that the state should withdraw from economic life.
[13] BILL CLINTON TO COME TO TURKEY FOR A HOLIDAY The U.S. President Bill
Clinton, who will pay a visit to Turkey between November 14 and 19, will
play golf in southern Antalya province and will also participate in meeting
of Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Istanbul.
[14] ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE) - -------------------- OPERATIONS UNDER WAY A
total of 15 terrorists were rendered ineffective during the operations of
Turkish Armed Forces launched in Northern Iraq. Turkish soldiers who
entered to Iraqi territory from Uludere and Cukurca counties, surrounded
terrorists who sheltered in Haftanin region. War planes which took off from
southeastern Diyarbakir and Malatya provinces bombed the region. Cobra and
super cobra helicopters searched the region thoroughly. A total of 15
terrorists were killed so far.
[15] MESSAGE OF CONCERN FROM TURKEY Turkey expressed concern over the war
in Chechnya and pointed out that the problem should be solved urgently
through peaceful means. The statement issued by Turkey's Press Consultant
in Moscow Embassy, said developments in Chechnya was covered with concern
in Turkey and called on the problem to be solved with a constructive
dialogue.
[16] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT RETURNS TO TURKEY - ECEVIT: ''THIS VISIT ONCE
AGAIN PROVED THAT TURKEY AND THE U.S. ARE STRATEGICAL PARTNERS''
[17] ANKARA, October 2 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on
Saturday that his official visit to the U.S., which took place upon the
invitation of Bill Clinton, the U.S. President, was very positive, adding
that ''this visit once again showed that Turkey and the U.S. are
strategical partners.'' Addressing a news conference in Ankara's Esenboga
Airport, Ecevit briefed about his visit to the U.S. Noting that his five-
day official visit to the U.S. was very positive and that he held a very
fruitful meeting with Clinton, Ecevit said ''we have talked in a friendly
and sincere atmosphere that suits to two allies. We have discussed many
issues. We have thanked to them due to the support they extended following
the massive quake.'' Ecevit said ''we have agreed to strengthen both
economical and political relations.'' He said ''providing 108 million U.S.
dollar increase for two years in textile quotas given to Turkey can be a
positive development. Also, trade and investment agreement was signed. This
agreement has a quality to create a basis that can realize many concrete
projects. Willingness of the U.S. President to sent a group of businessmen
to search for the investment facilities in Southeastern Anatolia region is
pleasing for us.'' Pointing out the Bill Clinton, the U.S. President,
reiterated his full support to Baku-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline project, Ecevit
said they found appropriate to increase cooperation on Caspian passing
Natural Gas Pipeline Project. Ecevit said Clinton continued to support
Turkey's membership to the EU in an active way, noting that ''the U.S.
President once again pointed out that he supports our views regarding
European Defense and Security Identity.'' Ecevit said ''we have exchanged
views with Clinton on regional issues like Kosovo'', adding that they have
stressed the contribution of Turkish-U.S. cooperation in solution of
regional conflicts. Ecevit said the U.S. President Clinton felt pleasure
over the improvement in Turkish-Greek relations. Ecevit said they have seen
Clinton and the U.S. administration in a more realistic manner that is
forwarded to understand the views of Turkish Cypriots. Statement issued by
the U.S. side which pointed out that there could be no return to the status
quo on Cyprus to the pre-1974 period was a realistic approach. Prime
Minister Bulent Ecevit pointed out that during his meeting with Al Gore,
the U.S. Vice President, oil and natural gas pipelines were discussed and
added that they also took up development in the Caucasia. Noting that he
held separate meetings with the administrators of the World Bank and
International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ecevit said ''we have seen that economic
reforms covered by our country were welcomed. It is clear that our fruitful
cooperation with these institutions will continue increasingly.'' Ecevit
also said he held various meetings with Senate and Congress members, press
representatives, businessmen as well as Turkish community in the U.S. that
forms a friendship bridge between the two countries. Ecevit said statements
of two senators, during one of these meetings, created reaction in the
press and public, adding that ''these two people are spokesmen and
militants of Greek Cypriot lobby so far. I think, it will be wrong to
evaluate the inconvenient views of these people as the views of Senate or
the Representatives Assembly.'' PM Ecevit pointed out that the reforms
which Turkey initiated in economic and political field increased the
support of the U.S. to Turkey, adding that ''I have seen that fruitful
studies of our coalition government and its consistent attitudes created
appreciation. This was always stressed during the meetings we have
attended. I have also seen that harmonized studies of the Parliament
increased respect to a great extend.'' Noting that this visit once again
proved that Turkey and the U.S. were two strategical partners, Ecevit said
''our visit prepared base of close cooperation with our important ally.
This was a positive and fruitful visit. I am happy to return to home with a
positive impression.'' When a journalist asked the contents of the meeting
he held with Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary General, Ecevit said Annan was
an understanding and constructive person. He said ''it was a very
beneficial meeting. His interest to Cyprus question was natural, moreover,
this should be seen as a guarantee. Because he is a very understanding and
positive person.'' Responding to a question about his meeting with Henry
Kissinger, former U.S. Secretary of State and Kissinger's point of view
towards Cyprus question, Ecevit said Turkey announced its views regarding
Cyprus issue to the world public ''yet, we have seen that our views to this
end are evaluated in a gradually understanding way in the world.'' Devlet
Bahceli, Deputy Prime Minister, Cumhur Ersumer, Minister of Energy and
Natural Resources, Foreign Minister Ismail Cem, and Ahmet Kenan Tanrikulu,
Minister of Industry and Trade, also participated in the news conference.
[18] MOSES, CLINTON'S CYPRUS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE TO VISIT ANKARA AND
ATHENS NEXT WEEK
[19] WASHINGTON, D.C October 2 (A.A) - Ahmet Erdengiz, the Washington, D.C.
Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) said he
hoped Alfred Moses, Clinton's Special Cyprus Representative, would return
to the U.S. realizing that there was no favorable grounds to call for a
meeting between the Greek and Turkish side of the Cyprus, following his
contacts in Ankara and Athens next week. Erdengiz told A.A that Moses'
visits are important because the the U.N. Secretary General will invite
both sides according to the results of the report prepared by Moses after
his visits. ''First the necessary grounds should be formed, later meetings
can start between the two states,'' Erdengiz said. Despite the attitude of
the Turkish side, the U.N. Secretary General called on two sides for a
meeting, Erdengiz noted and said ignoring realities would not be good. The
U.S. wants to understand the situation in Cyprus very well, and acts
cautiously by sending Moses the the island, he said and added that ''he
hoped Moses would stop a negative move that might occur''.
[20] PM ECEVIT: ''TURKEY IS A EUROPEAN COUNTRY ALTHOUGH THE FULL MEMBERSHIP
DOOR IS CLOSED''
[21] NEW YORK, October 2 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on
Friday that ''Turkey is a European country although the door of full
membership is closed for now.'' Addressing a dinner which was jointly
staged by Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen Association (TUSIAD) and
U.S. Foreign Policy Association, Ecevit said Turkey beloged to the Balkans,
eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, Caucasia and Asia as well as Europe.
The U.S. businessmen and diplomats were also at the dinner. Pointing out
that Turkis-U.S. relations were based more solid grounds and encouraging
for future especially following the end of cold war, Ecevit said ''we have
developed a strategic relation with our American friends forwarded to
future. Peace, stability, democratization and welfare will be taken under
guarantee in the region in the future due to this relation.'' Stressing
that economic and trade relations between the two countries should be
increased to a higher level due to the potential and values shared by the
two countries, Ecevit thanked to the support the U.S. extended following
the massive earthquake which hit Marmara region. Pointing out that the
quake revealed the joint fate between Turkey and Greece, Ecevit said
''Turkey and Greece always improved positive relations if they are left
alone.'' Ecevit, who mentioned about terrorism issue, noted that
''terrorism which escalated for 15 years negatively effected our reform
efforts.'
[22] GOKALP, MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL AFFAIRS: ''TURKEY WILL GIVE
NECESSARY IMPORTANCE TO ECOLOGIC AGRICULTURE''
[23] ANKARA, October 2 (A.A) - Husnu Yusuf Gokalp, the Minister of
Agriculture and Rural Affairs, said that there was a big shift towards
ecologic agriculture in the world in the recent years and Turkey also
started necessary works in this field, it was reported on Saturday.
Ecologic agriculture does not harm nature, plants, animals and human health
in all its stages, Gokalp said. Climate conditions, the thinning of the
ozone layer, environmental pollution and many other factors accelerated the
shift to ecologic agriculture, the Minister explained. ''There is a big
inclination towards ecologic agriculture and its products in the world. We
are also working on the same field in Turkey. Our country possesses the
conditions favourable for ecologic agriculture. Some developments on this
field have been observed in Turkey in recent years. However, they are not
sufficient. A total of 67 kinds of ecologic products were grown in our
country in 1998. Last year 8,199 producers obtained 99,300 tons of ecologic
products. More than 19,000 tons of this has been exported, some of it was
kept as frozen and some if it was processed,''Gokalp briefed. The Minsiter
also said they had difficulties to overcome in the marketing ecological
products. While foreign markets remain limited, the local market for
ecological products is almost non-existent, Gokalp noted and said his
ministry started to work to remove these obstacles.
[24] U.S. BUSINESSMEN TO VISIT SANLIURFA IN OCTOBER
[25] SANLIURFA, October 2 (A.A) - A U.S. team headed by Mark Parris, the
U.S. Ambassador in Ankara will come to Sanliurfa on October 20 after Prime
Minister Bulent Ecevit brought up the issue of Southeast development during
his U.S. visit. Ismail Demirkol, the Chairman of Sanliurfa Trade and
Industry Chamber told A.A that the U.S. started taking concrete steps in
its investments in southeast Turkey. ''There will be high level authorities
from the U.S. Eximbank and the semi-official finance institution OPIC. The
whole delegation will be formed by businessmen. We will discuss how to turn
the Southeast to an investment base,'' Demirkol explained. Businessmen of
Sanliurfa are ready for any kind of cooperation with the U.S. businessmen,
he noted and said the development in the region would gain acceleration
with the investments and cooperation of the U.S. businessmen.
[26] EVALUATION MEETING FOLLOWING MARMARA QUAKE - TANTAN, INTERIOR
MINISTER: ''THE SYSTEM TO CONTINUE IN A DISCIPLINED WAY WITHIN THE
FRAMEWORK OF MEASURES THAT ARE TAKEN''
[27] SAKARYA, October 2 (A.A) - Sadettin Tantan, Minister of Interior, said
on Saturday that several illegal forces worked for their own political
interests, ''yet'', he added ''continuation of system with discipline is
provided with the measures that are taken.'' Addressing a meeting where
efforts following the massive earthquake in Marmara region are evaluated,
Tantan said during the works that were launched so far they tried to
overcome the deficiencies and targetted carrying out services in a planned
way. Tantan said all demands calling for settlement of quake victims to
appropriate houses, providing their foodstuff and clothings will be
evaluated, adding that ''our efforts to this end continues. We will take
all constructive proposals into consideration.'' Pointing out that
according to the related law, the money that was collected should be
transferred to Disaster Fund and that aid in cash should be given to Red
Crescent, Tantan said non-governmental organization made arrangements to
extend support to people.
[28] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER DISTRIBUTE INFORMATIVE
BOOKLETS ABOUT EARTHQUAKE
[29] YALOVA, October 2 (A.A) - While efforts continue to heal the wounds of
the disastrous earthquake of August 17, the Prime Ministry Crisis
Management Center is distributing informative booklets to people in the
region. Four booklets titled ''In the Earthquake Region'' are telling
people what they could do when they face earthquake related problems. The
books, each consisted of 20 pages, also include aids, legal rights, health
and education services, work life and social security services and services
for the handicapped in disaster areas.
[30] CITICI, THE CHIEF PUBLIC PROSECUTOR OF ISTANBUL: ''WE ARE TAKING ALL
REQUIRED MEASURES, AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO''
[31] ISTANBUL, October 2 (A.A) - Ferzan Citici, the Chief Public Prosecutor
of Istanbul, said on Saturday that he could not say they have total control
over prisons at the moment, adding that ''we are taking all required
measures and will continue to do so. We will tighten measures.'' Citici,
who participated in a meeting staged by Istanbul Bar Human Rights Center
and Human Rights Jurists Committee, responded to the questions of
journalists regarding the incidents in prisons. Stressing that they did not
make an agreement, protocol or bargaining with the prisoners to put an end
to incidents, Citici said ''they had proposals and we evaluated them. We
met with our Justice Ministry. They have found some of the proposals as
appropriate and the actions were ended.'' When asked what would happen if
there was not an agreement, Citici said ''incidents in prisons would
increase and there would be bloodshed. I think we have prevented this.''
When recalled the allegations that weapons were found in Bayrampasa prison,
Citici said ''we have no information that there was weapons in Bayrampasa
Prison. Other than that, three controls have been made since the
incidents.'' Responding to a question related with the administrative
investigation launched related with the killing of seven people in
Bayrampasa Prison, Citici said ''Justice Ministry commission decided to lay
off those who neglected their duties. Also, required administrative
procedure will be applied on those people.'' Responding to another question
Citici said developments in Ankara Ulucanlar Prison were the reason of the
incidents in Bayrampasa prision. When asked if they have total control over
the situation in prison, Citici said they did not. He said ''we are taking
required measures and we will continue to do so.'' Pointing out that the
measures were taken within the framework of regulations and by-laws, Citici
said ''our problem stems from the physical structure of prisons, uneducated
personel and financial inadequacy. I believe that there will not be
incidents if ward system is quit. I think prisons should be controlled
through electronic systems. Establishment of electronic system especially
in Bayrampasa Prison is in question.'' When asked about the developments
that may happen if Amnesty Law is not issued, Citici said ''all the
prisoners have expectations from this amnesty. If their expectations are
not realized, there may be disappointment. It is not possible to predict
what they would do after that.''
[32] KDP DENIES NEWS REPORTS THAT THE PARTY PREVENTS THE TERRORISTS THAT
WILL SURRENDER TO TURKEY
[33] ANKARA, October 2 (A.A) - Iraqi Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) on
Saturday denied the news reports which appeared in media saying that KDP
prevented a group of terrorists which were getting prepared to surrender to
Turkish officials. A statement issued by KDP Ankara Representation said KDP
did not create an obstacle before the terrorists who will surrender, and
that they did not prevent those people and that they were not a side to
this initiative of terrorist organization. Pointing out that Northern Iraq
has 350-km border with Turkey, the statement said members of terrorist
organization who wanted to return to Turkey may use whichever enterance
point they want. The statement also denied the news reports that peshmergas
participated in the cross border operation of Turkey and that Turkish
forces made a comprehensive passing to Northern Iraq.
A.A
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