Anadolu Agency: News in English, 97-12-03

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

03 DEC 1997

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-EU - TURKEY'S FULL MEMBERSHIP TO EU - GERMANY'S AMBASSADOR TO VERGAU: ''CHANCELLOR KOHL CONFIRMED THAT TURKEY BELONGS TO EUROPE''

[02] US-TURKEY - US STATE DEPARTMENT: ''WE CONGRATULATE TURKEY AND GREECE OVER THEIR AGREEMENT REGARDING NATO COMMAND STRUCTURE IN THE AEGEAN''

[03] TURKEY-HEROIN - 3.5 KG HEROIN SEIZED IN ISTANBUL

[04] TURKEY-OMAN - PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN OMAN - DEMIREL RECEIVES OMANI ECONOMY MINISTER

[05] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[06] TURKEY-ECONOMY - STATE MINISTER ISIN CELEBI: - ''PREMIER YILMAZ DID NOT ANNOUNCE A DECISION IN PRINCIPLE TO FREEZE STATE PUBLIC SECTOR PRODUCTS' PRICES DURING FIRST HALF OF 1998''

[07] TURKEY-OMAN - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''TURKEY DOES NOT HAVE ANY ENMITY FEELING TOWARDS ITS NEIGHBOURS AND ARABS'' - DEMIREL PROCEEDS TO UAE

[08] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (1)

[09] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (2)

[10] TURKEY-BOMB ATTACK - BOMB ATTACK TO ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE IN ISTANBUL - ONE PATRIARCHATE WORKER INJURED

[11] TURKEY-NATO - NATO DEFENSE MINISTERS MEETINGS - DEFENSE MINISTER SEZGIN: ''COMPROMISE IS A SUCCESS OF ALLIANCE''

[12] TURKEY IN BRIEF - DECEMBER 3, 1997

[13] TURKEY-POLITICS - PREMIER YILMAZ: ''CHP HAS TO DETERMINE ITS ATTITUDE FROM NOW ON'' - ''GOVERNMENT WILL STEP DOWN IF IT IS DEFEATED IN THE CENSURE VOTE AGAINST TOPCU''

[14] TURKEY-US - FOREIGN MINISTER CEM IN WASHINGTON

[15] TURKEY-US - FM: ''TURKEY AND US ARE IN SOLIDARITY REGARDING REGIONAL ENERGY ISSUES''

[16] TURKEY-BOMB ATTACK (2) - TURKEY CONDEMNS BOMB ATTACK IN ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE IN ISTANBUL

[17] TURKEY-NATO - FM: ''DOCUMENT ADOPTED REGARDING NEW COMMAND STRUCTURE OF NATO DETERMINES MAIN PRINCIPLES'' - ''DOCUMENT FORESEES OVERCOMING COMMAND CONTROL PROBLEMS IN AEGEAN''

[18] TURKEY-WESTERN THRACE - FM: ''ATTACK AGAINST MOSQUE IN WESTERN THRACE OF GREECE CAN BE AN ORGANIZED ONE''

[19] TURKEY-GREECE-NATO - FM: ''AGREEMENT DETERMINING THE NEW COMMAND- CONTROL STRUCTURE OF NATO IS NOT A BILATERAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN TURKEY AND GREECE''

[20] TURKEY-ECONOMY - EXPORTATION RISES BY FOUR PERCENT IN NOVEMBER - EXPORTATION IN ANNUAL-BASE REACHES TO 26.6 BILLION DOLLAR - TIM CHAIRMAN OGUZ: ''OUR TARGET IS TO REACH USD 27 BILLION AT THE END OF 1997''

[21] TURKEY-BULGARIA - INTERIOR MINISTER BASESGIOGLU LEAVES FOR BULGARIA

[22] TURKEY-BULGARIA - BULGARIAN INTERIOR MINISTER BONEV: ''OUR SUPPORT TO SEPARATIST TERRORIST ORGANIZATION IS OUT OF QUESTION''

[23] TURKEY-BULGARIA - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ'S VISIT TO BULGARIA

[24] TURKEY-TRNC - CULTURAL COOPERATION PROTOCOL SIGNED

[25] TURKEY-BULGARIA - BULGARIAN PRIME MINISTER IVAN KOSTOV: ''WE FAVOUR A POWERFUL TURKEY'' - ''I INVITE TURKISH BUSINESSMEN TO INVEST IN BULGARIA''

[26] GERMANY'S ANKARA AMBASSADOR VERGAU: - ''TURKISH GOVERNMENT HAS PROVED GOODWILL IN TURKISH-GREEK RELATIONS'' - ''PKK FORBIDDEN IN GERMANY AND ALWAYS WILL BE''

[27] TURKEY IN BRIEF - DECEMBER 3, 1997

[28] RENAULT ENTERS TRUCK MARKET IN TURKEY...

[29] TURKEY-JUSTICE - ''SECRET FUND'' CASE AT THE COURT OF APPEAL - COURT OF APPEAL OF SELCUK AND HUSEYIN PARSADAN IS STARTED - DECISION SHALL BE DECLARED ON JANUARY 1998

[30] TURKEY-ECONOMY - NUH CEMENT SIGNED AN AGREEMENT ON CONSTRUCTION OF A POWER PLANT WITH AMERICAN AND DUTCH COMPANIES

[01] TURKEY-EU - TURKEY'S FULL MEMBERSHIP TO EU - GERMANY'S AMBASSADOR TO VERGAU: ''CHANCELLOR KOHL CONFIRMED THAT TURKEY BELONGS TO EUROPE''

Addressing a conference titled ''Turkey's full membership to EU'', staged by Yeditepe University Social Sciences Institute, Vergau said Germany is an important economic partner of Turkey and will remain so.

Noting that Germany supported Turkey's full membership to EU, Vergau said ''German Chancellor Kohl confirmed Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz that Turkey belonged to Europe. Kohl said he supported Turkey's full membership goal to EU which will be realized in the future. It is believed that Turkey will fulfil its commitments forwarded to EU's targets. Federal government will act within the framework of traditional German-Turkish friendship soul.''

Vergau said Turkey deserved a full membership strategy apart from the others, adding that Turkey contributed a lot to the defense of the West.

[02] US-TURKEY - US STATE DEPARTMENT: ''WE CONGRATULATE TURKEY AND GREECE OVER THEIR AGREEMENT REGARDING NATO COMMAND STRUCTURE IN THE AEGEAN''

Responding to a question, Rubin said ''we see this agreement as an important step.'' He said that the cooperation in the Aegean will be improved with the agreement, adding that ''we congratulate Turkey, Greece and NATO Secretary General Solana over their efforts extended for the realization of this agreement.''

Meanwhile, Pentagon Spokesman Captain Michael Doubleday said ''we strongly support new command structure.'' He also noted that this new command structure was an important step taken towards NATO's security in general and in the region ''thus, we will preserve our interests better.''

Rubin said Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem's visit to Washington will be a preparation for Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz's scheduled visit. He said Cem will meet the US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on Thursday and take up various aspects of bilateral relations.

[03] TURKEY-HEROIN - 3.5 KG HEROIN SEIZED IN ISTANBUL

The haul was seized when narcotics officials, acting on a tip off, staged an operation in Istanbul's Ataturk Airport and seized the heroin in the bag of German citizen Alex Gramer.

Gramer, who was a university student, was to take the heroin to Milano.

Investigation underway into the incident.

[04] TURKEY-OMAN - PRESIDENT DEMIREL IN OMAN - DEMIREL RECEIVES OMANI ECONOMY MINISTER

The meeting was closed to the press.

Demirel later participated in a dinner hosted by Oman Sultan Qaboos Bin Said in his honor.

Meanwhile, State Ministers Metin Gurdere and Mehmet Batalli responded to the questions of MBC TV and Qatari TV reporters.

Batalli and Gurdere said Turkey was in an effort to open to the whole world, and willing to improve relations with Arab countries within this framework.

[05] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HÜRRİYET (LIBERAL)

BAYKAL: I HAVE GONE TO PEACE MEETING IN THE US
Republican Peoples Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal said the conference he participated in the US was not a sect meeting but ''World Peace Meeting.''

MİLLİYET (LIBERAL)

SABAH (LIBERAL)

TOPCU CENSURE ACCEPTED WITH 247 VOTES
Parliament on Tuesday voted to hold a censure motion aimed at toppling Public Works Minister Yasar Topcu from the Motherland Party (ANAP). The motion was passed by 247 votes to 226. Republican Peoples Party (CHP) did not participate in the voting. 276 votes are required to topple Topcu.

CUMHURİYET (LEFT)

SYMPOSIUM FORM GENERAL STAFF
Retired Ambassador Coskun Kirca said there was a thesis to set up confederation in Cyprus but this could not be realized so far.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT) PRICES WERE NOT FROZEN
Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz clarifies his statement ''there are not price increases to State Economic Enterprises (KIT): Prices were not frozen.''

GIANT STEP TO PEACE
A long standing conflict between Turkey and Greece on Aegean Air Space and new command structure of NATO ended. NATO identifies this development as a ''great success.'' Turkey cancelled ''Cevik Pence'' military exercise scheduled to take place in the Aegean.

RADİKAL (LEFT)

ISMAIL CEM IN OIL BARGAINING WITH THE US
Foreign Minister Ismail Cem left for Washington as the official guest of the US State Secretary Madeleine Albright. Cem said Cooperation facities in mutual interests will be taken up during the visit which will take place before Yilmaz's scheduled visit to this country. Cem also said political dimensions of Baku-Ceyhan oil pipeline will be taken up.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

RAMSTORE CONQURED RUSSIA
A shopping and trade center Ramstore, opened in Moscow by Turkey's three leading companies, continue to attract attentions. The giant shopping center presents 50,000 various products.

YENİ YÜZYIL (LIBERAL) PINK SCENERIO
Yilmaz's plan is: Do not make price increases, reduce inflation, bring money to Turkey and go to early elections.

TOPCU VICTIM OF CHP
Parliament on Tuesday voted to hold a censure motion aimed at toppling Public Works Minister Yasar Topcu from the Motherland Party (ANAP). The motion was passed by 247 votes to 226. Republican Peoples Party (CHP) did not participate in the voting. 276 votes are required to topple Topcu. Yilmaz said the government will resign as a whole if they can find 276 votes.

FİNANSAL FORUM (ECONOMY) ROUTE UNCERTAINTY IN ECONOMY
As Economy circles begain to discuss the statements of Gunes Taner that price increases would be frozen, Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz and State Minister Celebi said the implementation in question would not be price freezing.

CENTRAL BANK TO MAKE ISTANBUL A FINANCE CENTER
Turkish Central Bank focused on the idea of turning Istanbul into a finance center although this was discussed since 1992 and no concrete outcome could not be reached.

[06] TURKEY-ECONOMY - STATE MINISTER ISIN CELEBI: - ''PREMIER YILMAZ DID NOT ANNOUNCE A DECISION IN PRINCIPLE TO FREEZE STATE PUBLIC SECTOR PRODUCTS' PRICES DURING FIRST HALF OF 1998''

Responding to questions, Celebi said, ''this is not a freeze of prices. TUPRAS loses 18 dollars in each one ton of oil. Now it has 34 trillion liras of loss. We are trying to launch an implementation to decrease that loss. Premier Yilmaz's statement was not a policy of freezing the prices. We continue to realize basic policies to dacrease inflation to 50 percent and continue our determination within the framework of 1998 budget and annual programme.''

Celebi said the implementation of 1998 budget and programme will be continued and they do not want to realize any other implementations.

''We should take into consideration the principles of economy and the developments in the market. Our economy has adopted an improvement trend within the framework of 1998 budget and programme,'' he said.

Pointing out that Premier Yilmaz' statement is to provide an economic agreement and understanding among the public, Celebi said that they prepared a mixture of Orthodox and Heterodox policies in 1998 budget and annual programme and within that policy. ''This is not 'freezing of prices' but understanding,'' he added.

Responding to a question, Celebi said that government is resolved to continue to implement 1998 budget and programme.

Noting that price-cost balance is one of the indispensable principle policy, Celebi said, ''defining of additional prices is our another indispensable principle policy.''

[07] TURKEY-OMAN - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''TURKEY DOES NOT HAVE ANY ENMITY FEELING TOWARDS ITS NEIGHBOURS AND ARABS'' - DEMIREL PROCEEDS TO UAE

Demirel, currently on an official visit to Oman, staged a news conference and evaluated his visit.

Demirel said bilateral relations, regional and international issues were taken up during his meeting with Omani Sultan Qaboos Bin Said and State officials and that they exchanged views on several issues.

Demirel said during the visit he told the Omani Sultan that Turkey was a peaceful country and favors solution of questions through peaceful ways. He also said Turkey has an important role in Euroasia which appeared in re- structuring Europe. ''Turkey is a great market, has a developed economy and a member of customs union of the European Union.''

Demirel said 70 percent of Turkey's 30-billion dollar trade was industrial goods and that it may meet several needs of Omani people. He said necessary legal base should be completed to increase Turkish-Omani cooperation. ''We may cooperate on prevention of double taxation, military field, promotion of investments, culture and tourism fields,'' he said.

Recalling that Turkey signed security cooperation agreements with its neighbors in the Caucasus, Balkans and in the Middle East. He said terrorism and drug trafficking are not limited within borders and expressed Turkey's willingness to cooperate in struggle against terrorism and drug trafficking.

Mentioning about Turkey's construction power and infrastructure investments realized in many countries, he said. ''we may participate in infrastructure investments here.''

Demirel advised Omani businessmen to be interested in energy investments and privatization efforts in Turkey. ''It is obvious that there is cooperation facilities in many fields,'' he added.

Demirel said he briefed Qaboos about Turkey's neighbours, adding he earlier sent two letters to the Sultan regarding Northern Iraq and Turkey's relations with Syria and Israel.

Demirel said Turkey has several problems and that there were several provocations against Turkey. ''We know that our friends would not be deceived by these provocations but the facts should be known by everybody, '' he said.

Responding to the questions, Demirel said there is no water problem between Turkey and the Arab world. ''There is only Syria's allegations,'' he added.

When asked what kind of a political cooperation was foreseen between Turkey and Oman, Demirel said ''we held negotiations being two peaceful countries, political cooperation, that is all....''

The same reporter said Demirel's visit coincided with a crisis period in the region and asked about Demirel's views on the issue. Demirel in response recalled that it was a fact that there was tension in the region yet added that this started seven years ago. Demirel said ''we think that Iraq should agree with the UN Security Council and abide by its resolutions.''

Noting that there were suspicions, concerns and allegations that Iraq has mass destruction weapons, Demirel said ''this will make people in the region uneasy.''

The same reporter said military training cooperation agreement signed between Turkey and Israel caused suspicions in Arab world and asked about the goal of the agreement. Demirel said Turkish-Israeli relations did not have any objectives forwarded to a third country adding that ''this is not against any third country, neither Syria nor Egypt. In fact, there are relations between Egypt and Israel for 20 years. Jordan and Palestine have relations with Israel. Having suspicions about Turkish-Israeli relations, when there are existing relations like the others, would only be a provocation.''

Demirel said Turkey and Israel have military training agreement and that Turkey has similar agreements with 28 countries. ''Perceiving this as a military alliance would be wrong.''

Demirel said he proposed a similar agreement to Oman today and gave its draft. ''Turkey and Arabs are brothers. They should not be deceived by the provocations,'' he said.

Another Omani journalist said ''water problem'' and ''Turkey's relations with the West'' were preventing the improvement of relations between Turkey and the Arab world and asked ''Can Turkey approach more to the Islam world?''

Responding to this question, Demirel said ''you should have correct information about Turkey before making a judgement. There is no water problem between Turkey and the Arab world. There are only allegations of Syria. It would be exteremely wrong to show that Arab world is against Turkey before investigating the correctness of the allegations. We can understand solidarity between the Arab countries. Yet, this solidarity should not be by owing allegations of the members. This would be unjust and would not be for the benefit of the Arab world.''

Demirel said there was not water problem, adding that Euphrates river has 30 billion cubic meters water and all of the water flow to Syria. He said Syria wanted half of this water.

President Demirel said Syria fed terrorists on its territory and sent them to Turkey to massacre Turkey's soldiers, police, teachers and innocent civilian people including children and women. ''Will this be appropriate to neighborhood?'' he said.

''We want our Arab brothers to say to Syria 'what are you doing, why are you doing this?', instead of believing in Syria's allegations,'' Demirel said and added that he sent letters to Arab world head of states on June 25 and Sept 5 and briefed about this issue.

Demirel said it would be meaningless to separate the world as Christian and Islam world, adding Turkey's relations with the Western countries was a requirement of its national interests. ''they are not against anybody,'' he said.

Mentioning about Turkey's relations with Western countries, Demirel said ''Western countries have relations with every country in the world. Do not Malaysia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia have relations with the West?''

Demirel said Arab countries should not judge Turkey with prejudices. ''There may be enmities towards Turkey. Do not be deceived by these provocations stemming from these enmities,'' he added.

Demirel later proceed to United Arab Emirates.

[08] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (1)

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

CEM TO MEET ALBRIGHT IN WASHINGTON
Foreign Minister Ismail Cem, arriving in Washington on Tuesday with a delegation of seven senior Turkish officials including the Foreign Ministry's head of the US desk, is expected to have a meeting with US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on Thursday. State Department spokesman Jamie Rubin said Cem's talk with Albright would cover a full range of bilateral relations and common strategic interests.

It is also expected that Cem will meet with US Secretary of Energy, Frederico Pena as well. US support for the Baku-Ceyhan main export oil pipeline is expected to be on the agenda of the Cem-Pena meeting. /All papers/

EU TERM PRESIDENT WILL PROPOSE NEW PLATFORM FOR RELATIONS WITH TURKEY
European Union term president and Luxembourg Prime Minister, Jean-Claude Junker, said in a press conference on Tuesday in Brussels that he would propose a new platform which will give Turkey a more substantial prospect of membership after Ankara had firmly dismissed the plan for a permanent European Conference as a 'watered down' solution. ''The European Conference was invented to establish a platform for closer relations with Turkey. But it will have no role in the enlargement process,'' Junker said. He warned that it would be a serious mistake to exclude Turkey from the EU enlargement process. Pointing out that Turkey was a great and honorable European country, Junker noted that they would find a good response in Turkey to a reaffirmation of their commitment to Turco-EU relations. /Milliyet/Sabah/

TURKISH CONSTRUCTION OF MEGA HIGHWAY IN PAKISTAN
The first part of the highway from the Turkish speaking republics to the Indian Ocean via Pakistan and Afghanistan was opened with a ceremony. This part, which is 334 kilometers long, was constructed by the Turkish firm STFA. The second part of the highway will be constructed by another Turkish firm Bayindir Holding and President Suleyman Demirel will attend the foundation laying ceremony on 12 December.

At the opening ceremony of the first part of the highway, Prime Minister Navaz Sherif thanked the Turkish STFA firm that completed the construction within a six month period. Ibrahim Ozen said for his part that they had shared in constracts worth USD 450 million in Pakistan to date, and that they had another USD 80 million contract to complete. /Milliyet/

''WE HAVE MELTED AWAY''
Semdin Sakik, known as the second leader of the PKK terrorist organization, said: ''The organization has collapsed because of the mentally disabled PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan, it has melted away like a candle and come to the point of exhaustion.'' PKK leader Sakik made this latest statement in a declaration after Ocalan's statement that the organization a collapsed. Copies of the declaration was seized in recent operations in rural areas of Tunceli and Bingol. Following Ocalan's declaration Sakik said that: ''I was shocked by Ocalan's statement that the organization has collapsed. This is true. The PKK has lost the power it had five years ago. The organization has melted away and come to the point of exhaustion in terms of both personnel and logistic support. The reason for this is that Ocalan is mentally disabled.''/Hurriyet/

YILMAZ CANCELS MEETING WITH KOHL
In a phone conversation with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz said that Ankara will not be satisfied with a European Conference that does not clarify EU full membership perspectives for Turkey. At the same time, Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz cancelled his meeting with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl prior to the crucial European Union summit in Luxembourg. Yilmaz told Kohl that there was no need for a second appointment in such an adverse environment. While there is one week left to the Luxembourg Summit, Germany still maintains its positive stance towards Turkey. ''We have not compromised anything from our expectations,'' Kohl told Yilmaz on Monday. /Milliyet/

(CONTINUES)

[09] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (2)

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

TURKEY AND ARGENTINA AGREE TO COOPERATE IN TOURISM
A Tourism Cooperation Protocol signed between Turkey and Argentina has been approved by the Council of Ministers and published in the Official Gazette yesterday. The protocol was signed on October 17 in Istanbul and includes provisions for encouraging cooperation between Turkish and Argentinian tourism establishments. /Cumhuriyet/

FRENCH MINISTER: ''EU SHOULD NOT BECOME CHRISTIAN CLUB''
France has intensified its efforts in support of Turkey's EU full membership bid. French President Jaques Chirac has held a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kostas Simitis to seek ways remove Greek vetos against Turkey. French Minister responsible for European Affairs, Pierre Moskovici, in a statement to Liberation newspaper, in turn invited EU member countries not to view the Union as a ''Christian Club''. He stressed that Turkey was a country of strategic importance and that everybody would benefit from Turkey's future integration with Europe. Estranging Turkey from the EU however may lead to a number of negative consequences, the French minister pointed out. /Hurriyet/

WARM RECEPTION FOR DEMIREL IN OMAN
After talks in Oman yesterday, President Demirel said that both he and his party had been well received by the people and leaders of Oman. ''There has been much close interest'' noted Demirel.

During the second day of his stay in Oman, Demirel was taken on a tour of historical places including the Al-Jalali castle and the military museum of Baist Al-Falaj. Demirel also spoke with Sultan Kabus Bin Said and leading Oman ministers. /Sabah/

AEGEAN MILITARY EXERCISE CANCELLED
In a gesture directed to Greece, Turkey has cancelled the ''Cevik Pence- 97'' military exercises in the Aegean Sea region planned for later this month, said Foreign Ministry deputy spokesman Sermet Atacanlı yesterday. He noted that the December combined naval and military exercises were something of a tradition, but that this year changes had been made to avoid creating tensions and as a goodwill gesture towards Greece. /Sabah/

ANTI-PKK OPERATION IN BODRUM
Security forces in the region around the popular holiday resort of Bodrum have been carrying out operations against the PKK terrorist organization. Reports say that weapons and ammunition have been seized by the security forces. Supporters of the PKK have reportedly been taken to Diyarbakir for questioning. /Sabah/

[10] TURKEY-BOMB ATTACK - BOMB ATTACK TO ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE IN ISTANBUL - ONE PATRIARCHATE WORKER INJURED

Istanbul Orthodox Patriarchate in Eyup district in Istanbul, injuring one employee, it was reported on early Wednesday.

The bomb exploded just past midnight Wednesday. The worker, Nikolou Nektarius, was in stable condition at the American Hospital in Istanbul.

Nobody claimed responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, Head of Istanbul Police Organization Hasan Ozdemir made observations in the Orthodox Patriarchate.

Officials said that the investigations and operations are underway concerning the bomb attack.

[11] TURKEY-NATO - NATO DEFENSE MINISTERS MEETINGS - DEFENSE MINISTER SEZGIN: ''COMPROMISE IS A SUCCESS OF ALLIANCE''

Speaking to press during NATO member countries' Defense Ministers meeting realized in Brussels, Sezgin recalled that NATO started studies on the new command structure under the resolutions taken in 1994. Sezgin said one of the most important stages of this study was the adoptation of the new command structure, adding that:

''This model is adopted today due to the constructive and flexible attitudes of Military Committee and allies. We welcomed the command structure model which will be effective functionally and militarily. This model will give NATO the ability to function more effectively. I want to stress that: This compromise reached was not a victory of several countries to the others but a mutual success of the alliance. This is a kind of new corner stone.''

Sezgin said Turkey, from the very beginning, participated in the studies related with the new command structure with a constructive and open viewed approach and gave priority to the mutual interests of the alliance. He said Turkey will cover the coming studies with the same understanding and sensitivity.

''I have told my counterparts that Turkey was determined to maintain its contructive and good will intentions in the following studies and expected all ally countries to act with the same understanding as it will bring a compromise in implementation stage.''

When asked what kind of concessions did Turkey and Greece made that such a compromise could be reached, Sezgin said ''neither Turkey nor Greece did not give any concessions. There was a compromise only. This compromise provided NATO to reach a structure which increased its effectiveness, deterrence and power.''

Sezgin said new command structure model should be welcomed by Greece. ''We favor solving disputes with Greece by sitting at negotiation table, through dialogue and peacefully,'' he said.

Sezgin also urged NATO to be more active in struggle against terrorism. ''I stressed during the meetings the requirement that the alliance should assume a more active attitude in struggle against terrorism,'' he added.

Sezgin also stressed that NATO should be active in struggle against illegal weapon smuggling, drug trafficking, organized crime and such kind of aspects which will endanger security of the countries.

''NATO powers silenced TV stations in Serbia serving to terrorism. We think it was necessary to silence tv stations which continue their attacks to the integrity of a NATO member country through Med-tv,'' Sezgin said.

Sezgin said expansion of NATO will provide Europe's integrity, independence, permanent peace and stability.

He said a country, which is an important part of political and military integration of Europe should not be isolated from the economic integration. ''I do not think European Union (EU) will isolate Turkey. This contradicts with mental principles,'' he added.

[12] TURKEY IN BRIEF - DECEMBER 3, 1997

Celebi after the signing ceremony said that there is an unfair competition in EU countries for Turkish products.

Emphasizing that anti-damping interrogations were opened against Turkey when Turkish products had become effective in European markets, Celebi said that especially Turkish textile sector faces these inquiries and such interrogations can only be opened by the decision of Association Council.

Noting that illegal lists were published for antidamping investigations and Canakkale Dardanel is now subjected to such an implementation, Celebi said, ''Italian lawyers are trying to close Canakkale Dardanel company on grounds that there is hygenic virus in the factory. It has 100 million dollars of trade volume and signed several agreements with Britain. Now they are trying to stop the entrance of Turkish products into European countries.''

Pointing out that those problems should be discussed within Customs Union (CU) process, Celebi said, ''I believe CU process is working against Turkey. Turkish industrial sector should take measures to protect itself against such unfair complaints.''

Celebi said that Turkey did not give up its target of EU full-membership and it wants to be included in EU expansion process.

ASHKABAT - Energy and Natural Resources Minister Cumhur Ersumer on Tuesday met Shell Company President Alan Parsly for Turkmenistan-Iran-Turkey natural gas pipe line.

Ersumer, who is in Ashkabat on an official visit, told A.A correspondent after the meeting that Shell company wants to construct Turkmenistan-Iran- Turkey natural gas pipe line together with French Total Gas.

Pointing out that Shell proposed to construct that pipe line within two years via Iran or Caspian Sea if political disputes would not be emerged, Ersumer said, '' we can work with Shell. At first, other concerned coutries will agree on the construction of this project. Now we try to set up a consensus.''

KAYSERI - Erciyes Ski-Center in Erciyes Mountain in Kayseri province saw the first snow of the season, it was reported on Wednesday.

Erciyes Ski-House officials told A.A correspondent that the snow started to cover up the ski-center in Tekir pasture at midnight and continued until the morning.

Officials said the snow reached to five centimeters and if snow continues, they will open Erciyes's ski-season this weekend.

ANKARA - The ''Second Meeting of Consumers Council'' will be held in Ankara tomorrow, it was reported on Wednesday.

Industry and Trade Ministry said in a written statement that the two-day meeting in Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges (TOBB)Conference Hall will be started by the opening speech of Industry and Trade Minister Yalim Erez.

The problems, which are resulted from the implementation of rights proposed by ''Consumers' Rights Prevention Law'' and the issues regarding the organization of consumers will be taken up in the meeting.

ANKARA - Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved the agreement titled ''Implementation Project of Health Service Model Based Upon Society In Shanty-Towns of Ankara Within Framework of Safe Pregnancy and Reproductive Health'' signed between Turkey and UN Population Fund.

The project, which foresees the implementation of ''Health Service Based Upon Society'' and contribution to institutionalize that approach within the cooperation of government and other voluntary organizations, was published in the Official Gazette on Wednesday.

[13] TURKEY-POLITICS - PREMIER YILMAZ: ''CHP HAS TO DETERMINE ITS ATTITUDE FROM NOW ON'' - ''GOVERNMENT WILL STEP DOWN IF IT IS DEFEATED IN THE CENSURE VOTE AGAINST TOPCU''

When asked ''why are you evaluating this as a censure given to the government since the very beginning,'' Yilmaz said there was nothing to do with the Minister's individual savings. What has been done was made under the decisions of the High Planning Committee and Council of Ministers. It was proved in today's meetings that none of the allegations were true.

Yilmaz also called on CHP to review its attitude adding that ''they may act as they wish if they regard this as a political incident, yet, they should assume an attitude in the second voting if they are in a situation to evaluate the correctness of the allegations.''

Parliament on Tuesday voted to hold a censure motion aimed at toppling Public Works Minister Yasar Topcu from the Motherland Party (ANAP). The motion was passed by 247 votes to 226.

Republican Peoples Party (CHP) did not participate in the voting. 276 votes are required to topple Topcu.

The opposition parties accused Topcu of corruption in a Black Sea road project. Topcu denied the charges and told reporters immediately after the vote that he would not resign.

[14] TURKEY-US - FOREIGN MINISTER CEM IN WASHINGTON

Speaking to reporters, Cem said it would be beneficial to further improve Turkish-American relations, adding that ''several strategical ideas and approaches improved by the US recently, rapproaches to Turkey's strategy and interests more when compared to the past.''

Cem said he would have separate meetings with the US Minister of Energy Frederico Pena, White House National Security Consultant Sandy Berger and Albright, adding the Middle East, Caucasus, Caspian Basin, oil and natural pipelines, Eastern Mediterranean which is becoming an open market of missile and Iraq would top the agenda. Foreign Minister underlined that trade and economic relations between the two countries and the issue of increase in quotas implemented on Turkey's textile products would be taken up in particular.

Foreign Minister Cem said he did not bring a message to the US regarding EU issue, adding that US favored Turkey to rapproach EU as possible and supported this. he said ''Yet, there is not a sign of improvement with the EU.''

Cem said Turkey's views on Turkish-Greek issues, including Kardak, were close and similar and did not contradict with EU's Agenda 2000 model and official statements of the US. Cem said EU made a serious mistake by considering Greek Cypriot side as the collocutor for full membership process. He said Turkey accepted its deficiencies regarding human rights and democracy field, adding that the new government took steps like the lifting of state of emergency in several provinces. ''State Minister, responsible for Human Rights have comprehensive preparations to this end. These will come to the agenda at the beginning of 1998.''

Cem said ''I have the idea that EU's reasons are a little bit different. They have nothing to say in Turkish-Greek disputes. It is true that we have several problems on human rights issue. Yet, Spain sentenced 26 politicans as they have links with ETA terror organisation. Will they exclude Spain from EU now?''

Cem said Athens failed to show a constructive approach against Turkey, adding that on the contrary Turkey revealed the most wise and constructive approaches.

Responding to a question, Cem said they did not seek for a new model for Northern Iraq and wanted Ankara Process to gain effectiveness again.

[15] TURKEY-US - FM: ''TURKEY AND US ARE IN SOLIDARITY REGARDING REGIONAL ENERGY ISSUES''

Addressing a weekly press briefing, Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesman Sermet Atacanlı said that the two countries are in cooperation particularly in transportation of Caspian oil to the world, adding that ''Turkey and US have similar views concerning this issue.''

Atacanlı stated that Foreign Minister Ismail Cem will meet US Energy Minister Frederico Pena during his visit to US and this meeting will once again confirm the energy cooperation that exists between the two countries.

''Turkey and US are two friendly and ally countries, therefore the two countries often hold consultation meetings concerning their interests. The visits of Prime Minister Mesut Yılmaz and Foreign Minister Cem to US will constitute a new opportunity in this regard,'' Atacanlı said.

Responding to a question, Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesman Sermet Atacanlı stressed that ''the program of Prime Minister Yılmaz in US has not been determined, but his meeting with US President Bill Clinton is for sure.''

[16] TURKEY-BOMB ATTACK (2) - TURKEY CONDEMNS BOMB ATTACK IN ORTHODOX PATRIARCHATE IN ISTANBUL

Foreign Ministry said that Turkey is uneasy about the explosion and wounding of a priest in the bomb attack, adding that Turkey condemns such kinds of violence attempts launched in any country.

The statement noted that ''Turkey will exert necessary efforts to find those who are responsible for the attack, bring them before the court and prevent the re-occurance of such events.''

[17] TURKEY-NATO - FM: ''DOCUMENT ADOPTED REGARDING NEW COMMAND STRUCTURE OF NATO DETERMINES MAIN PRINCIPLES'' - ''DOCUMENT FORESEES OVERCOMING COMMAND CONTROL PROBLEMS IN AEGEAN''

Addressing a weekly press briefing, Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesman Sermet Atacanlı said that the document was adopted in order to make the strategic, regional and sub-regional command structure of NATO more effective and multi-national in respect of military and cheaper in respect of finance, adding that it is not yet the final stage, but the document determines the main principles.

Noting that two common subregional, mainly land headquarters, will be constructed in Izmir and Larissa, Atacanlı pointed out that these headquarters will not have responsibility over several areas during peace time, therefore ''the document foresees overcoming command control problems with Greece in the Aegean.''

Sermet Atacnlı stressed that the document foresees annulement of several former military documents which do not abide by the new structure and updating others.

Pointing out that Turkey has been defending all issues that were adopted in NATO meetings from the beginning, Atacanlı said that Turkey welcomed the newly adopted document.

Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesman Sermet Atacanlı added that ''Turkey is resolved to continue its good willing and productive attitute regarding NATO issues. We believe that if all NATO member countries think in the same way, NATO will also be succesful in implementation of the document.''

[18] TURKEY-WESTERN THRACE - FM: ''ATTACK AGAINST MOSQUE IN WESTERN THRACE OF GREECE CAN BE AN ORGANIZED ONE''

Foreign Ministry recalled that Greek media said that an organization named ''Golden Twilight'' was effective in the attack that took place during ''Ataturk-Venizelos meeting'' held in Salonica a month ago.

Noting that the so-called organization is active in Western Thrace as it is claimed by one reader's letter sent to ''Eleftherotipia'' newspaper published in Greece dated on November 12, the statement stressed that Foreign Ministry heard news claiming that the name of the so-called organization was also written in the walls of the mosque in Alıtcılar Village.

The statement went on saying that ''Turkey is seriously concerned with the re-occurrence of such incidents and expects Greek officials to take necassary measures to prevent such incidents.''

[19] TURKEY-GREECE-NATO - FM: ''AGREEMENT DETERMINING THE NEW COMMAND- CONTROL STRUCTURE OF NATO IS NOT A BILATERAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN TURKEY AND GREECE''

Responding to questions of journalists at a weekly press briefing, Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesman Sermet Atacanlı said that an agreement was reached within the framework of NATO and it concerns all NATO countries, adding that ''this is only an agreement that consists of principles, it needs further studies and we can only see the repercussions of this agreement by then.''

Sermet Atacanlı stated that Greece did not respond to the Turkish proposal regarding the meeting of Experts Committee on December 10.

Responding to a question regarding the issue of ''special representative'' proposed by Prime Minister Mesut Yılmaz during his meeting with Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis in Crete Summit; Atacanlı pointed out that there is not any development regarding this issue.

Foreign Ministry Deputy Spokesman Atacanlı recalled that Prime Minister Yılmaz had earlier said Greek Prime Minister Simitis would respond to that proposal after some time, adding that the Greek press claimed that the Greek side does not seem to be positive regarding this proposal.

[20] TURKEY-ECONOMY - EXPORTATION RISES BY FOUR PERCENT IN NOVEMBER - EXPORTATION IN ANNUAL-BASE REACHES TO 26.6 BILLION DOLLAR - TIM CHAIRMAN OGUZ: ''OUR TARGET IS TO REACH USD 27 BILLION AT THE END OF 1997''

Turkey Exporters' Assembly (TIM) Chairman Okan Oguz said in a written statement that Turkey's exportation proceeds over estimated targets according to the exporters unions' statistics.

Oguz said that the exportation increased by 14 percent between January- November 1997.

Okan Oguz said that Turkey realized considerable increase in exportation even there were crisis in international markets and fluctuations resulted from intensive competition.

''We should realize more successes to overcome economic problems and to decrease inflation,'' he said.

Oguz said that the exportation in November was USD 2.3 billion and Turkey's total exportation in last eleven months of this year increased to USD 24.4 billion, adding that the total amount was 21.4 billion dollar in the same period last year.

[21] TURKEY-BULGARIA - INTERIOR MINISTER BASESGIOGLU LEAVES FOR BULGARIA

Addressing a statement before leaving for Bulgaria as an official guest of Bulgarian Interior Minister, Basesgioglu stated that ''cooperation'' and ''security'' agreements that had earlier been signed between the two countries will be overviewed during his contacts in Bulgaria.

Noting that Turkey and Bulgaria are among the route countries regarding drug trafficking, Basesgioglu added that that the two countries should cooperate concerning this issue which treatens all human kind.

Basesgioglu pointed out that he will meet Bulgarian officials regarding the smuggling of people that frequently takes place in the Balkan countries.

''The separatist terrorist organization launches efforts to reconstruct itself in the Balkan countries including Bulgaria and Romania and if this is the case, Bulgarian public order will also be destroyed. We will try to cooperate with Bulgaria in order to prevent the harmful activities of this terrorist organization in Bulgaria and Turkey,'' said Basesgioglu.

Noting that Prime Minister Mesut Yılmaz will also leave for Bulgaria on Thursday, Minister Basesgioglu pointed out that they will try to solve several problems in the border gates between the two countries by signing the necessary protocols and agreements.

Basesgioglu stated that the infrastructure of the ''Security Agreement'' which will be signed by Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria will also be determined during his visit to Bulgaria.

[22] TURKEY-BULGARIA - BULGARIAN INTERIOR MINISTER BONEV: ''OUR SUPPORT TO SEPARATIST TERRORIST ORGANIZATION IS OUT OF QUESTION''

Addressing a statement to A.A correspondent, Bonev stated that Bulgaria will not allow PKK terrorist organisation to set up bases or offices in its territory and there is a healthy cooperation between the two countries in this regard.

''Bulgaria implements serious measures against the terrorist organization PKK more than other European countries which officialy declared PKK as a terrorist organization,'' said Bonev.

Noting that Bulgaria is in close cooperation with Turkey regarding international drug trafficking and arms smuggling, Bogomil Bonev pointed out that Bulgaria will further improve this cooperation.

Bulgarian Interior Minister Bonev said that third country citizens use Bulgaria and Turkey as a ''temporary stop'' to reach Europe, adding that an effective cooperation should be realized against smuggling of people.

[23] TURKEY-BULGARIA - PRIME MINISTER YILMAZ'S VISIT TO BULGARIA

The governments of the two countries attribute importance to this visit, because Prime Minister Yılmaz will be the first Turkish Prime Minister who will visit Bulgaria after 18 years.

The issue of Rezve river and territorial waters which could not be solved for years, is expected to be solved during this visit. Yılmaz and Kostov will sign an agreement to this end and also another cooperation agreement on education and culture.

Meanwhile, Bulgarian Prime Minister Ivan Kostov said that a new security atmosphere has been set up between the two countries and Prime Minister's visit will further strengthen it.

Chairman of Bulgarian-Turkish Businessmen Association Mustafa Ertanın told A.A correspondent that they will ask Prime Minister Yılmaz for help regarding opening of a Turkish bank which will ease the problems of Turkish businessmen working in Bulgaria.

Mesut Yılmaz will meet Bulgarian Prime Minister Kostov, President Petar Stoyanov, Parliament Speaker Yordon Sokolov and also expected to meet the leader of ''Rights and Freedoms Movement'' Ahmet Dogan and his colleques.

[24] TURKEY-TRNC - CULTURAL COOPERATION PROTOCOL SIGNED

The ''Cultural Cooperation Protocol'', signed according to the ''Cooperation Protocol in Education, Science, Sport and Cultural Areas'' concluded between the two countries on 3 September 1990 in Lefkosa, foresees the long-term reinforcement and improvement of cultural relations between two countries.

According to the 18 article protocol, the works and publications of TRNC writers will be included in the Turkish library distribution system.

The two countries will invite each other to cultural and artistic activities, as well as to national and international lectures, seminars, exhibitions, congresses, conferences and festivals.

In addition, cooperation in avoiding the smuggling of antiques and in archive issues is to be realized, as well as cultural exchange programs of one or two years.

[25] TURKEY-BULGARIA - BULGARIAN PRIME MINISTER IVAN KOSTOV: ''WE FAVOUR A POWERFUL TURKEY'' - ''I INVITE TURKISH BUSINESSMEN TO INVEST IN BULGARIA''

Addressing a statement to A.A correspondent, Ivan Kostov stated that Bulgaria will support Turkey regarding its membership to the European Union. (EU)

Calling Turkish businessmen to invest in Bulgaria, Kostov stressed that Turkish-Bulgarian relations, which are based on security and friendship, have been developing in many fields. Noting that the two countries have common interests regarding many issues, Kostov pointed out that this potential should be used in a best way.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Kostov said that the secret migration from Bulgaria to Turkey is a very important problem both for the two countries.

''First of all these people who migrate to Turkey are our voters. These people have brought us to the government. We owe them, thus we can not stay indifferent to these dramatic incidents. Bulgaria is resolved to cope with this issue by cooperating with Turkey,'' said Kostov.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Kostov added that the Balkan countries should cooperate with each other in order to install lasting stability in the region.

[26] GERMANY'S ANKARA AMBASSADOR VERGAU: - ''TURKISH GOVERNMENT HAS PROVED GOODWILL IN TURKISH-GREEK RELATIONS'' - ''PKK FORBIDDEN IN GERMANY AND ALWAYS WILL BE''

During a speech at the meeting of the Marmara Group, Ambassador Vergau said that the Turkish and German Governments are in full agreement in the struggle against terrorism, adding that the PKK separatist terrorist organisation's activities were forbidden in Germany. ''The PKK is forbidden, and always will be,'' he said.

Vergau also said that if a country has a problem that seriously threatens its democratic institutions and security, that country could not be a member of European Union (EU). He added that solving the Southeast problem was the duty of Turkey.

Vergau went on to mention Yasar Kemal. He said that all Germans appreciated the works of the famous writer Yasar Kemal, as well as his personal struggle for justice, after his receiving the Frankfurt Peace Award on 19 October 1997.

About the Turkey's EU membership Vergau said that:

''I do not want to infer that Turkey is guilty in the matter between Turkey and Greece. However, satisfactory steps to provide an equilibrium between these two neigbouring countries can never be given up. The Turkish government has proved its goodwill. Fruitful meetings have recently been held at different levels. Germany shows its determination in supporting the mutual agreement between Turkey and Greece,'' he said.

[27] TURKEY IN BRIEF - DECEMBER 3, 1997

During his speech, Kılıc said that they be involved in certain activities in accordance with the military education cooperation agreement between Turkey and Bulgaria.

Mentioning that Turkey would give full support for Bulgaria's membership of NATO, Kılıc also said that high level visits would improve relations between the two countries.

General Popov said that Bulgaria needed Turkey's support for its full membership of NATO.

General Popov will leave Turkey on 6 December, after visits to various Air Force facilities.

KOCAELI - Dutch Navy Chief Admiral Luuk Kroon, in Turkey as the offical guest of Navy Chief Admiral Salim Dervisoglu, has visited Fleet Commander Admiral Ilhami Erdil.

In a statement after the meeting, Admiral Kroon said that the Mediterranean Region was of utmost importance to them and that they wanted to carry out training exercises with Turkey.

[28] RENAULT ENTERS TRUCK MARKET IN TURKEY...

In an announcement in the Trade Registration Gazette, ''Renault Truck Trade Joint-Stock Company'' will assemble trucks only with the permission of the General Directorate for Foreign Capital.

With capital of TL 278 billion, Renault Truck Trade Company's biggest partner is French RENAULT V.I. Other partners of the Istanbul company are Chardin VAl d'Or SA, Herve Hauvespre, Eric Pierre Gerard Labat, and Jacques E.G.Maury.

The company will import and export all kinds of machines, equipment, instruments and spare parts, in accordance with regulations and they will assemble trucks providing that they get permission from the General Directorate for Foreign Capital.

[29] TURKEY-JUSTICE - ''SECRET FUND'' CASE AT THE COURT OF APPEAL - COURT OF APPEAL OF SELCUK AND HUSEYIN PARSADAN IS STARTED - DECISION SHALL BE DECLARED ON JANUARY 1998

Lawyers Levent Yurdakul, Senol Ozel and Adil Sahin attended the court.

Yurdakul said that the verdicts against the Parsadan brothers should be cancelled because of missing evidence. Yurdakul claimed that there was a lack of evidence in the trial from former Prime Minister Tansu Ciller, President Suleyman Demirel, the Chairman of the Democratic Left Party (DSP) Bulent Ecevit and Welfare Party (RP) Deputy Chairman Sevket Kazan. Adding that the secretaries of Ciller's assistant Akin Istanbullu had also not been heard either, Yurdakul said that ''legal explanation of secret fund expenses is not possible. A conviction can not be given for a situation in which the expenses are not questionable. Therefore, the material and immaterial effects of the crime are not present.''

Stating that ''Ciller's naivity can not be considered,'' Yurdakul continued that ''because the mentioned money is said to have been used in election activities, the situation is one not of naivity but cunning,'' he said.

Lawyer Ozel said that Ciller's statement was flawed. He added that there was no material proof for the charges against Parsadan, and that he was convicted on baseless claims.

Lawyer Sahin said that reaching a verdict without listening to Ciller was wrong. ''Not calling Ciller is a deficiency. The trial was affected by the news in the media. The case should be fully dismissed on principle,'' he said.

The Chairman of the Court of Appeal, 6th Penal Court, Necdet Mutis stated that the decision would be announced on 16 January 1998 as new documents and defenses would have to be examined.

[30] TURKEY-ECONOMY - NUH CEMENT SIGNED AN AGREEMENT ON CONSTRUCTION OF A POWER PLANT WITH AMERICAN AND DUTCH COMPANIES

The agreement on the ''Combined Electric and Heat Production Power Plant'' was signed today in Istanbul between Nuh Cement Industry and American and Dutch companies.

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