Anadolu Agency: News in English, 98-09-10

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

10 SEPT 1998

CONTENTS

[01] FOREIGN POLICY SUMMIT AT PRESIDENTIAL RESIDENCE - VARIOUS ISSUES RANGING FROM THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE TO THE CYPRUS QUESTION DISCUSSED AT THE SUMMIT

[02] SEZGIN, MINISTER OF DEFENSE, IN BRITAIN - SEZGIN MEETS WITH HIS BRITISH COUNTERPART ROBERTSON

[03] TRNC TO HAVE GENERAL ELECTIONS ON 6 DECEMBER

[04] PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''SYRIA IS BEHIND TERRORISM'' - ''THERE ISN'T A WATER PROBLEM''

[05] FM DENIES THE CLAIMS SAYING THAT PANGALOS, THE GREEK FOREIGN MINISTER SENDS A LETTER TO CEM, THE FOREIGN MINISTER

[06] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (1)

[07] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (2)

[08] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (3)

[09] CONTACTS OF COEPA RAPPORTEURS IN TURKEY - BARSONY: ''WE'LL PREPARE A MEMORANDUM OF OUR IMPRESSIONS AT CONCLUSION OF VISIT AND SUBMIT IT TO THE TURKISH GOVERNMENT''

[10] FM CEM INFORMS PAKISTAN ABOUT THE CONFEDERATION PROPOSAL OF TRNC PRESIDENT DENKTAS

[11] AKBANK OBTAINS ITS THIRD SYNDICATED LOAN IN 1998

[12] ''TURKISH TEXTILES, LEATHER AND FASHION DAYS'' FAIR TO BE HELD IN BUDAPEST, HUNGARY, BETWEEN 5-8 NOVEMBER, 1998

[13] TURKISH WORLD YOUTH DAYS AND CONGRESS

[14] CONTACTS OF PUK DELEGATION IN ANKARA - TALABANI, THE PUK LEADER IS EXPECTED TO VISIT ANKARA AFTER RETURNING FROM THE US

[15] TURKISH FILMS FESTIVAL BEGINS IN NETHERLANDS

[16] 53 ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS CAPTURED

[17] FOREIGN DEBT PAYMENTS - 163.7 MILLION US DOLLARS REPAID IN FOREIGN DEBTS BETWEEN 1 AND 9 SEPTEMBER

[18] CONTACTS OF PUK DELEGATION IN ANKARA ... - MASUM, THE PUK POLITBURO MEMBER: ''THE WORDS WHICH ARE CLAIMED TO BE SAID BY TALABANI, ARE AGAINST OUR GENERAL DISCOURSE''

[19] EXPO'98 WORLD FAIR - A TOTAL OF 1.2 MILLION PERSONS VISIT THE TURKISH PAVILION AT FAIR

[20] TURKISH ATLANTIC COUNCIL DELEGATION IN BRUSSELS

[21] TURKISH-IRANIAN JOINT TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING ENDS - THE TRANSIT PASSAGE FEE WHICH WAS PAID BY TURKISH TRANSPORTERS IS ABOLISHED

[22] TURKEY IN BRIEF - 10 SEPTEMBER 1998

[01] FOREIGN POLICY SUMMIT AT PRESIDENTIAL RESIDENCE - VARIOUS ISSUES RANGING FROM THE MIDDLE EAST PEACE TO THE CYPRUS QUESTION DISCUSSED AT THE SUMMIT

The summit had the attribute of a ''coordination meeting'' and was planned for last week upon the request of President Suleyman Demirel. The high ranking state officials made evaluations about the foreign policy developments at the meeting.

Diplomatic sources stressed that the summit wasn't held to discuss an urgent issue, adding that not a special issue, but all the foreign policy developments were discussed at the summit.

The main issues that were discussed at the summit are as follows:

''Cyprus question, the relations with Greece, the Silk Road Project, Iraq, Azerbaijan, oil pipelines, the civil war that is continuing in Afghanistan, the Middle Eastern Peace Process, the recent situation in the Turkish- European Union (EU) relations, the connection between the separatist terrorist PKK organization and the Middle Eastern neighbours of Turkey and in this framework the attempts of the PKK to infiltrate into Turkey from Iran and the developments in Northern Iraq.''

A high ranking government official told the A.A correspondent that ''various issues that directly or indirectly affect the Turkish foreign policy were discussed at the summit.''

The same official said that the Foreign Ministry gave information about various issues and the other participants explained their views.

The summit which discussed the Turkish Foreign policy in detail can also be repeated in the future within the framework of possible dvelopments.

[02] SEZGIN, MINISTER OF DEFENSE, IN BRITAIN - SEZGIN MEETS WITH HIS BRITISH COUNTERPART ROBERTSON

Also, General Ilhan Kilic, the Chief Commander of the Air Forces, who is in London to participate at the European Air Forces Commanders (EUROC) meeting, attended the meeting held at the British Ministry of Defense's building at the fair center.

Speaking to reporters following the meeting, Sezgin said that Robertson and he discussed bilateral relations, global issues and the developments in the field of defense.

Ismet Sezgin added that Robertson and he also discussed the Turkish-British Defense Industry Cooperation Agreement, which will be signed in Ankara between 15-17 September.

Responding to a question, Robertson, the British Minister of Defense, said that during his visit to Ankara, they will lay the foundation for the cooperation Turkey and Britain will realize in the defense industry.

Robertson mentioned that they will discuss several issues including the S- 300 missiles, the balances in the Mediterranean, the Cyprus issue and the crisis in Russia.

Sezgin and General Ilhan Kilic, who wrapped up their contacts in London, will return to Turkey on Thursday.

[03] TRNC TO HAVE GENERAL ELECTIONS ON 6 DECEMBER

The TRNC Parliament's Committee for Jurisprudence and Political Affairs approved unanimously the motion about holding the general elections on 6 December.

The date for general elections was earlier decided to be 12 December 1998.

The motion, which was adopted by the committee, should be ratified by the TRNC Parliament before 6 October in accordance with the Election and Public Voting Law.

[04] PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''SYRIA IS BEHIND TERRORISM'' - ''THERE ISN'T A WATER PROBLEM''

Addressing a statement to ''Diplomacy Articles'' which is the publishing organ of the Association of Diplomacy Correspondents, President Suleyman Demirel said that there isn't a lack of dialogue between Turkey and Syria, but this dialogue doesn't attain a result.

''We tell Syria that we can give as much water as they need, but she doesn't accept and asks for half of the water. How can we set up a dialogue?'' said Demirel, noting that Iranian, Turkish and Syrian Foreign Ministers held tripartite meetings in the past, but they couldn't obtain a result.

Noting that everybody knows that the chief of the separatist terrorist organization stays in Damascus, Syria, President Demirel said that Syria supports terrorism by alleging the water issue as an excuse.

''There isn't an issue of water today and there won't be for 25 years. In the past the water level was 200 cubic meters in summer and it was 2,000 cubic meters in winter or rainy days. We constructed a dam on the Fırat (Euphrates) River and started to give 1,000 cubic meters every month. Syria has to thank us for that,'' said President Demirel who stated that if Syria ends her support to the separatist terrorist PKK organization, Turkey will be very pleased. ''Diplomacy has strength and it isn't approppriate for a neighbouring and a Muslim country to support the PKK,'' Demirel added.

Mentioning the Turkish-European Union (EU) relations, President Suleyman Demirel said ''the discrimination that is shown against Turkey hasn't ended''.

Noting that Turkey, which is an associate member of the EU, can't be treated just like the Central European countries, President Suleyman Demirel said that nevertheless showing Turkey as a candidate state and the adoption of the European Strategy for Turkey at the Cardiff Summit is very important.

Pointing out that the attempt to accept the Greek Cypriot side in the EU was wrong in many respects, President Suleyman Demirel said that the Cyprus question is a conflict which is attempting to be solved by the UN.

Stressing that the delivery of the S-300 missiles to the island is wrong, President Demirel said that Turkey can't remain indifferent to the developments on Cyprus as she is a guarantor state.

''Greece is a problem for the EU more than for us,'' said Demirel, adding that the EU didn't fulfill her obligations towards Turkey due to the impediments of Greece.

[05] FM DENIES THE CLAIMS SAYING THAT PANGALOS, THE GREEK FOREIGN MINISTER SENDS A LETTER TO CEM, THE FOREIGN MINISTER

An official from the Foreign Ministry told the A.A correspondent that ''there isn't such a letter.''

Fileleftheros, a Greek Cypriot newspaper alleged that Pangalos, the Greek Foreign Minister said in his letter to Cem that reciprocal efforts have to be exerted to solve the Turkish-Greek problems and the Cyprus question. The newspaper also claimed that the letter was also discussed at the meeting held between Costas Simitis, the Greek Prime Minister and Glafcos Clerides, the Greek Cypriot leader in Athens on 27 August.

[06] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (1)

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

FOREIGN POLICY SUMMIT
The important issues which are on the agenda of the Turkish foreign policy were discussed at a summit held at the Presidential Residence in Ankara yesterday. The Presidential Press Centre said in a written statement that Mesut Yılmaz, the Prime Minister, Bulent Ecevit, the Deputy Prime Minister, Gen. Huseyin Kıvrıkoglu, the Chief of General Staff, Sukru Sina Gurel, the Minister of State and Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister, participated in the meeting headed by President Suleyman Demirel. /All papers/

SEZGIN IN ENGLAND
Ismet Sezgin, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense made inquiries yesterday at the Aviation and Weaponry Fair, which has been held for 50 years in Farnborough, England. Sezgin received information about the new technologies that are used in aircraft and weaponry at the fair. Later the same day Sezgin met with officials from the British Ministry of Defense at the British Aerospace Centre in a luncheon and they reviewed the provisions of the Cooperation Agreement on defense that will be signed during the visit of George Robertson, British Minister of Defense, to Turkey between 15-17 September.

SUMMIT IN ANKARA
Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz and Bulent Ecevit, the Deputy Prime Minister, held a meeting at the Prime Ministry Residence yesterday. During the meeting, Yilmaz gave information about his recent visits to Jordan, Israel and Palestine. Yilmaz also met with Yalim Erez, the Minister of Industry and Trade. Meanwhile, Yilmaz received yesterday Gen. Huseyin Kıvrıkoglu, the Chief of General Staff, Gen. Atilla Ates, the Commander of the Land Forces, Gen. Rasim Betir, the Commander of the Gendarmerie, and Gen. Hilmi Ozkok, the Deputy Chief of General Staff. No statement was made to the press regarding the meeting. /Milliyet/

RAPPROCHEMENT BETWEEN GREECE, IRAN AND ARMENIA
Ankara said yesterday that it was closely following the results of a trilateral summit between the foreign ministers of Greece, Iran and Armenia in Teheran. ''We are evaluating the nature and outcome of the summit. We are carefully watching the developments and making the necessary assessments'' Sermet Atacanli, the Spokesman of the Foreign Ministry, told a press conference. /All papers/

76TH ANNIVERSARY OF LIBERATION OF IZMIR
The 76th anniversary of the liberation of Izmir from Greek occupation was celebrated yesterday. The Turkish Stars (airplanes) held a demonstration in the sky which attracted the interest of many people in the city. Meanwhile, the 76th anniversary of the liberation of Bursa from foreign occupation was also celebrated yesterday. The activities organized by the Bursa Foundation of Culture, Art and Tourism will last for five days. /Milliyet/

ISTANBUL STOCK EXCHANGE HOLDS INTERNATIONAL MEETING
The Istanbul Stock Exchange (IMKB) held a meeting in Istanbul with the participation of officials from international institutions such as the World Bank and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). During the meeting, Huseyin Erkan, the Deputy Chief of the IMKB, said that a ''private retirement fund'' would contribute to the development and diversification of the capital market in Turkey. Alberto Musalem, an expert from the World Bank also spoke in favour of the fund. He noted that it transferred resources into the financial system and maintained economic stability in the long-term. /Sabah/

JAPANESE FIRM WINS TENDER OF RURAL SERVICES
Mustafa Yilmaz, the Minister of State, said yesterday that a Japanese firm won a tender opened by the General Directorate of Rural Services for renewing its machinery. He said that the Japanese firm offered to sell 3, 600 work machines for 207 million US dollars to be paid five years later. /Sabah/

CULTURE AND ARTS FESTIVAL IN ANKARA
The Office of the Governor of Ankara will hold a culture and arts festival between 15-30 September, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the declaration of Ankara as the capital of Turkey. /Milliyet/

GREEK CYPRIOT NEWS AGENCY REPORTS ON S-300 MISSILES
According to a Greek Cypriot News Agency, Yannakis Omiru, the Defense Minister of the Greek Cypriot Administration, denied a report on the S-300 missiles which appeared in the previous day's issue of a newspaper. He was quoted as saying that the arrival of the Russian-made S-300 anti-aircraft missiles hadn't been postponed and that the Greek Cypriot Administration hadn't changed its opinion about the issue. /Cumhuriyet/

DEMIREL DENOUNCES SYRIA
In a statement given to ''Diplomasi Yazilari'' (Diplomatic Articles), a magazine published by the Association of Diplomatic Correspondents, President Suleyman Demirel denounced Syria by saying that it had a hostile attitude towards Turkey, referring to the Syrian support for the PKK terrorist organization. In his statement, Demirel also criticized the European Union's discriminatory decision taken at the Luxembourg Summit and noted that initiatives to include the Greek Cypriot Administration in the EU aren't correct. /Cumhuriyet/

[07] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (2)

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

TURCO-ISRAELI EXERCISE IN JANUARY
Admiral Salim Dervisoglu, the Commander of the Naval Forces, said that the ''Reliant Mermaid'' exercise which was held between 5-9 January 1998, with the participation of Israel and the US could also be held in 1999. Dervisoglu noted that he received a proposal from Israel, which isn't official, regarding this issue. /Milliyet/

SEVEN PKK TERRORISTS KILLED IN SOUTHEAST
Security forces in the Southeast have killed seven terrorists from the PKK terrorist organization in recent operations. A statement by the regional officials said that the operations were carried out in the southeastern provinces of Van, Diyarbakir, Batman and Hakkari. A group of armed terrorists raided two villages in the northern provinces of Tokat, killing one person and wounding three. Security forces in the region have launched an extensive operation to search for the attackers.

COUNCIL OF EUROPE REPORTERS
Walter Schwimmer and Andreas Barsony, the reporters responsible for Turkey in the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly's Supervisory Commission, on Wednesday visited the Turkish Association of Journalists (TGC), where they attended a meeting of journalists specializing in foreign relations. Nail Gureli, the Chairman of the TGC, pointed out that the association had enjoyed a 52-year-long history and was one of the most widespread and deeply rooted professional organizations in Turkey. Schwimmer commented that they were in Turkey in order to ascertain to what extent the country had carried out the commitments it had promised to undertake during the process of becoming a full member of the Council of Europe. The two reporters later visited units of the Istanbul Police Department, meeting with Hasan Ozdemir, the Istanbul Chief of Police at his office. He said that they would detail the results of their visit in a report to be presented to the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly. /All papers/

MOODY'S NEGATIVE ON EARLY ELECTIONS
The leading US rating institution analyst on Turkey Hanan Salem has said that if the Parliamentary elections hadn't been put forward, then an atmosphere of political ambiguity wouldn't have emerged. Salem, who works for Moody's, claims that political uncertainty caused by an early election decision had cast a shadow on the success of the economic policies currently being implemented. Salem noted that only when they are convinced that Turkey will maintain her current stabilization policy, they will increase Turkey's rate. ''There are very positive developments in the Turkish economy. Privatization is going fast, the tax reform bill was passed and the budget discipline is being continued. Moreover, we observe that the inflation rate is slowing down'', he added. /Milliyet/

CHP MARKS ITS 75TH ANNIVERSARY
The 75th anniversary of the Republican People's Party (CH) is being celebrated through several activities organized by regional branches and its headquarters. A delegation comprised of CHP Chairman Deniz Baykal, party members, deputies and the Ankara branch paid a visit to Anitkabir, Ataturk's Mausoleum, yesterday. Baykal also visited the mausoleum of former chairman of the CHP and Turkey's second president Ismet Inonu. /All papers/

EU DEMANDS MORE DATA
The European Union (EU) has demanded additional data from Ankara before it decides whether or not to lift the ban imposed on Turkish exports of aquaculture products -a decision which prolongs the ban for several more weeks. A delegation of Turkish experts from the Ministry of Agriculture had talks with their EU counterparts in Brussels on Tuesday. The EU Permanent Veterinary Committee requested that Turkey send an additional file of information on the measures before 22 September, when it will convene to discuss the ban.

GROWTH RATES ANNOUNCED
The growth rate for the first half of 1998 was 6.3 percent and 4 percent in the second quarter, according to data obtained from the State Institute of Statistics (DIE).

EXPORTS OF HAZELNUTS
The 1998-1999 export season for hazelnuts started. The total foreign exchange income from the exports of hazelnuts in the previous export season was nearly 965 million US dollars.

A PUK DELEGATION TO VISIT ANKARA
A delegation representing the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) will come to Ankara in order to hold contacts here. Sermet Atacanli, the Deputy Spokesman of the Foreign Ministry, said in a press briefing that Celal Talabani, the PUK leader, will send a delegation to Ankara to hold consultations within the framework of Turkey's contacts with the groups in Northern Iraq.

NATIONAL DAY OF TAJIKISTAN
President Suleyman Demirel sent a message of congratulation yesterday to his Tajik counterpart Imamali Rahmanov in order to celebrate the National Day of Tajikistan.

DEMIREL RECEIVES STALEV
President Suleyman Demirel received yesterday Stoyan Stalev, the Bulgarian Ambassador to Turkey. Stalev has presented his letters of credence to Demirel and introduced the embassy staff.

[08] TURKISH PRESS REVIEW (3)

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

SUBMARINES PRODUCED IN TURKEY
Following the Preveze, Sakarya and 18 March submarines, a new submarine called Anafartalar has been laid down in the Golcuk docks. These submarines equipped with conventinal batteries and diesel electric system can travel at a speed of 21 miles underwater and 12 miles above water. The submarines can launch ''Harpoon'' guided missiles to targets above water at a range of 138 km and are also equipped with computer-controlled systems. These submarines which can be cited among the most sophisticated among the 400 conventional submarines in the oceans, can stay underwater for 50 days without getting new supplies. /Hurriyet/

EUROPEAN CERAMICS SUMMIT IN TURKEY
The European ceramics producers are gathering in Turkey. A meeting of the ''European Producers of Ceramics Health Equipment Federation'' started yesterday with a reception held at the Istanbul Ciragan Hotel. Eczacibasi Vitra is hosting the meeting which will end on 11 September. A total of 63 ceramic producers from 14 European countries participated at the meeting. At the meeting the developments observed in the ceramics sector last year will be evaluated. /Hurriyet/

S-300 MISSILES TO BRING REGION UNDER RUSSIAN CONTROL
In a confidential report to the NATO, the American Administration warned that in case the deployment of the S-300 missiles is permitted on Cyprus, then the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East would fall under Russian control. In the report prepared by Richard Holbrooke, the Special Envoy to Cyprus of the US President, who was later appointed to the UN, it was stressed that the threat to the NATO would stem not from the missiles themselves, but the radar system Russia would bring to the island. In his report Holbrooke stated that with the radars to be deployed on the island along with the S-300 missiles, Russia would take the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East under control and gain superiority over the NATO. /Hurriyet/

GERMAN SOCIAL DEMOCRATS FAVOUR TURKEY'S EU MEMBERSHIP
The German Social Democratic Party (SPD), expected to win the elections on 27 September in Germany, favours Turkey's membership in the EU. However, the SPD puts forth conditions that Turkey should show progress on democratization and human rights. Karsten Voight, the SPD foreign policy spokesman and a deputy of the Federal Assembly, said that Turkey's membership in the EU could be achieved easier with a SPD Administration in power. Noting that they were against the PKK and would never support violence or secessionism Voight said, ''in places where the SPD is in power the PKK activities are banned. There is a difference between the Kurdish issue and the PKK. /Hurriyet/

SABANCI CALLIGRAPHY COLLECTION IN US
Istemihan Talay, the Minister of Culture, stated that the best examples of Ottoman-Turkish calligraphy produced during a period of 500 years would be displayed in the US. Berna Yilmaz, the wife of the Prime Minister, Cavit Kavak, the Minister of State, Istemihan Talay, the Minister of Culture, and many businessmen and journalists went to New York yesterday to attend the opening ceremonies of the ''Sakip Sabanci Calligraphy Collection'' to be displayed at ''The Metropolitan Museum of Art'' and the ''Los Angeles Museum of Art''. Cavit Kavak said that he was proud to see the Sabanci collection displayed in the world cultural centres on the 75th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. /Hurriyet/

HEROIN OPERATION
Hasan Ozdemir, the Chief of the Istanbul Police, said that during three separate operations carried out by the Narcotics Department, 82 kilograms of heroin have been seized. The market value of the heroin totals 2 trillion TL.

TURKISH SCIENCES CONGRESS
An ''International Turkish Sciences Congress'' will be held at the Vienna University between 21-25 September. The Congress, which will be organized by the International Committee of Pre-Ottoman and Ottoman Research, will be attended by many Turkish and foreign scientists. /Cumhuriyet/

INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC CONGRESS IN ANKARA
Suha Sevuk, the Rector of the Middle East Technical University (METU), announced that the congress organizers are trying to improve Turkey's economic strategy and stated, ''we belive that the new generation of economists will overcome the problems of the Turkish economy with their analytical abilities''. Sevuk was delivering the opening speech at the METU International Economic Congress. He noted that the congress united many economists from various countries and all over Turkey. The sessions and panels at the congress consist of critical subjects such as transportation, econometrics, social security surveys and Ottoman historical research. /All papers/

ANTALYA EXPO CENTRE
The construction of the Antalya Expo Centre International Fair Centre will be concluded in April 1999 and the Centre will be opened the same month.

GENERAL MEETING OF EUROPEAN POSTAL SERVICES
The regular general meeting of the European Postal Services Commission (CSFPE) will be held in Ankara between 11-12 September. A total of 49 representatives from 22 countries will take part at the meeting.

SECOND ANKARA INTERNATIONAL AEROSPACE CONFERENCE
Arif Ahmet Denizolgun, the Minister of Transportation and Communications, said yesterday that Turkey has the necessary technological acqusitions and qualified labour force for the ventures which she has to make in the fields of technology and infrastructure at the outset of the 21st century. The ''Second Ankara International Aerospeace Conference'' started the same day at the Middle East Technical University Culture and Congress Centre.

[09] CONTACTS OF COEPA RAPPORTEURS IN TURKEY - BARSONY: ''WE'LL PREPARE A MEMORANDUM OF OUR IMPRESSIONS AT CONCLUSION OF VISIT AND SUBMIT IT TO THE TURKISH GOVERNMENT''

Addressing a statement during the visit, Andras Barsony said that this is their fourth visit to Turkey and they came here to see whether Turkey, which is at the stage of becoming a member of the European Union (EU), fulfills her responsibilities or not.

Noting that the changes adopted in the Turkish legislation upon their recommendations had produced positive results, Barsony stated that their main concern is the anti-terrorism implementations and practices by the police organization.

Stressing that they paid visits to Ankara and the eastern province of Diyarbakır, Barsony pointed out that they will prepare a memorandum of their impressions about Turkey at the conclusion of their visit and submit it to the concerned commission. Barsony added that the memorandum will be submitted to the Turkish government after discussing it with the Turkish parliamentarians.

Stressing that the Turkish officials were very open and sincere with them during their visit, Barsony stated ''this is a very important signal for all of us and for this country.''

Responding to the questions of journalists about their evaluations concerning human rights in Turkey, Walter Schwimmer and Andras Barsony said ''important developments were recorded concerning the legislation and Turkish parliamentarians had made contributions to that. The Code of Criminal Procedure (CMUK) is one of them. In fact Turkey has to make improving steps concerning human rights practices and we have proposals concerning this issue. The arrangements that will be made in the field of freedom of expression are very important for us.''

[10] FM CEM INFORMS PAKISTAN ABOUT THE CONFEDERATION PROPOSAL OF TRNC PRESIDENT DENKTAS

The Foreign Ministry said that Korkmaz Haktanır, the Undersecretary of Foreign Ministry, submitted Cem's letter to the Pakistani Foreign Ministry during his visit to Pakistan between 5-7 September.

Noting that the Pakistani side reiterated her support for the Turkish attitude concerning the Cyprus question during Haktanır's contacts in Pakistan, the statement added that Turkey also confirmed her attitude towards the Kashmir problem.

The statement added that the Afghan problem was discussed at the meetings and the two sides reached a consensus of opinion by saying that the problem can't be solved by force and a broad base government, which includes all the groups in the country has to be set up in Afghanistan.

The steps that will be taken to improve Turkish-Pakistani relations were taken up with the contacts of Haktanır. Besides the two sides reached an agreement concerning the establishment of joint Turkish and Pakistani firms. These firms will carry out activities in third countries particularly in the Central Asian Republics and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The two sides also decided to continue to support each other in international institutions and to develop cooperation within the framework of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the D-8 (Developing Eight).

[11] AKBANK OBTAINS ITS THIRD SYNDICATED LOAN IN 1998

The one-year pre-export financing loan, which was initially planned for 100 million US dollars, has an interest rate of Libor plus 0.50.

The number of syndicated loans the Akbank secured this year has increased to three together with this latest facility, which was increased to 160 million US dollars due to intense demand from the banks.

The loan was arranged by the Arab Banking Corporation B.S.C., The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi Ltd., Credit Agricole Indosuez, Deutsche Bank AG, Dresdner Bank Luxembourg S.A. and the First Union National Bank.

[12] ''TURKISH TEXTILES, LEATHER AND FASHION DAYS'' FAIR TO BE HELD IN BUDAPEST, HUNGARY, BETWEEN 5-8 NOVEMBER, 1998

The Undersecretariat of Foreign Trade will extend a state support of 50-60 percent to the firms which will participate at the fair.

The Ladin firm, which organizes the fair in Budapest said in a written statement that the fair will provide new opportunities for the bringing of Turkish textiles, leather, shoes and ready-to wear products to the Central European markets and they will also open important doors for Turkish exporters.

The Turkish firms which export goods to Hungary, have acquired the same rights that are valid for the European Union (EU) countries which make trade in Hungary, with the signing of the Free Trade Agreement between Turkey and Hungary.

Noting that Hungary has been chosen as the target market for opening new doors to firms, which want to benefit from these advantages, the statement stressed that the Undersecretariat of Foreign Trade, the Turkish Embassy in Hungary and the Foreign Economic Relations Council, the Hungarian Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism, the Hungarian Union of Exporters, the Hungarian Chamber of Industry and Trade and the Turkish-Hungarian Business Council support the fair, where all kinds of shoes and accessories, home textiles, ready-to-wear and leather products will be displayed.

Imports are free to a considerable extent in Hungary and Turkey's exports to this country increased by 39 percent in 1993, 55 percent in 1994 and increased by 174 percent in 1995.

This country is important for Turkish exporters for textiles, leather products and shoes.

The Free Trade Agreement signed between the two countries is expected to increase the existing market share of the Turkish exporters in Hungary and duty-free trade will be taken as a basis in the trade of all industrial products until 2001.

[13] TURKISH WORLD YOUTH DAYS AND CONGRESS

The Unity of Turkish World Youth said in a written statement that the aim of the congress is to establish good relations and cooperation among the young people.

A total of 37 youth organizations from 29 Turkish states and communities, are members of the Unity of the Turkish World Youth that has been active since February 1992.

[14] CONTACTS OF PUK DELEGATION IN ANKARA - TALABANI, THE PUK LEADER IS EXPECTED TO VISIT ANKARA AFTER RETURNING FROM THE US

Addressing a statement to the A.A correspondent, Cetirge said that Celal Talabani, the PUK leader won't visit Ankara before his visit to the US, but he may visit Ankara on his return.

Last week, Mesud Barzani, the leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) held contacts with high ranking officials in Ankara before his visit to Washington, D.C. Barzani had told a press briefing in Ankara that he would meet with Talabani in Washington, D.C., who was also invited to the US just like him.

The Foreign Ministry will draw the attention of the PUK delegation to the claims saying that the PUK extends support to the separatist terrorist PKK organization and will also explain Turkey's concern about this issue.

Meanwhile, Turkey is uneasy about the statements of Theodoros Pangalos, the Greek Foreign Minister, who said that Talabani wants to set up an autonomous Kurdish state which also includes territories in Turkey. Turkey will ask the PUK delegation for information concerning this issue.

[15] TURKISH FILMS FESTIVAL BEGINS IN NETHERLANDS

The festival that will last until the end of September, has began with the showing of two films, the ''Brigand (Eskiya)'' and ''Innocence (Masumiyet)''.

A total of 19 films will be shown in 7 cities within the framework of the festival that was organized with the joint initiative of several Turkish and Dutch art organizations.

''Brigand (Eskiya)'', ''Journey of the Scorpion (Akrebin Yolculugu)'', ''Overhead Kick in the Coffin (Tabutta Rovasata), ''Innocence (Masumiyet)'', ''Melodic Miracle (Nihavend Mucize)'' and ''Kill Me Master (Usta Beni Oldursene)'' will be shown in Amsterdam, Middelburg, Hoorn, Rotterdam, Breda, Nijmegen and Eindhoven.

Meanwhile several actors and actresses such as Turkan Soray, Ugur Yucel and Derya Alabora, and Atif Yilmaz, Omer Kavur and Baris Pirhasan, the leading directors of the Turkish cinema, will meet with the audience on 16 September.

[16] 53 ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS CAPTURED

Officials told the A.A correspondent that 26 Iraqis were captured in Bakracli Village and 27 others were captured in Kiratli Village in Ozalp County.

The Iraqis were taken into custody for violating the Turkish borders and the passport law.

Officials said that the Iraqis will be deported once the legal proceedings are completed.

[17] FOREIGN DEBT PAYMENTS - 163.7 MILLION US DOLLARS REPAID IN FOREIGN DEBTS BETWEEN 1 AND 9 SEPTEMBER

The Central Bank data shows that the Treasury repaid 121 million US dollars; the Central Bank repaid 16.1 million US dollars; the Ministry of National Defense and the Defense Industry repaid 914.6 million US dollars and the Defense Fund repaid 26.6 million US dollars in foreign debts between 1 and 9 September.

Meanwhile, a total of 7 billion 868.8 million US dollars in foreign debts were repaid since 1 January.

The foreign debt payments were 1 billion 346.7 million US dollars in January; 916 million US dollars in February; 785.8 million US dollars in March; 765.8 million US dollars in April; 621.1 million US dollars in May 1998; 165.9 million US dollars in June 1998; 1 billion 242.8 million US dollars in July 1998; and 860.9 million US dollars in August 1998.

[18] CONTACTS OF PUK DELEGATION IN ANKARA ... - MASUM, THE PUK POLITBURO MEMBER: ''THE WORDS WHICH ARE CLAIMED TO BE SAID BY TALABANI, ARE AGAINST OUR GENERAL DISCOURSE''

Turkey has been motivated by the statement of Pangalos, who said ''Talabani asked Greece for support for a Kurdish autonomous region which covers Northern Iraq and a part of the Turkish territories.'' The Foreign Ministry tries to find out whether or not the statement of Pangalos is true and on the other hand, it asked the PUK delegation whether or not Talabani said these words.

The PUK delegation, composed of the PUK politburo members, namely Fuat Masum, Adnan Mufti and Muhammed Tevfik Rahim told the Turkish officials that these kinds of statements are ''not possible,'' while Turkey expressed her uneasiness about the meeting between Talabani and Pangalos.

The Athens News Agency (ANA) claimed that Talabani asked Pangalos for support concerning ''autonomy and the rights of Kurds'' and Turkey's operations in Northern Iraq were also discussed during that meeting.

The ANA added that Pangalos told Talabani that he will extend support for the appropriate requests of Talabani at the UN and on the other international platforms.

A high ranking Foreign Ministry official said that Turkey didn't welcome the attitude of Talabani, who asks for support from Greece on the one hand, and who also says that he wants to improve his relations with Turkey, on the other hand. The same official pointed out the Greek support extended to the separatist terrorist PKK organization and the connection between the PKK and the PUK.

Fuat Masum, the Chairman of the PUK delegation said that the ''the words claimed to be said by Talabani are contrary to the general discourse of the PUK concerning the region. I can say that there is probably a misunderstanding.''

Responding to the questions of journalists after the first part of the meetings held at the Foreign Ministry, Masum said that their contacts constitute a part of the initiative which has been started by them to solve the regional problems.

Noting that ''Iraqi Kurdistan'' is a part of Iraq and that the PUK is only interested in Iraqi territories, not in Turkish territories, Masum stated that they are Iraqi citizens.

[19] EXPO'98 WORLD FAIR - A TOTAL OF 1.2 MILLION PERSONS VISIT THE TURKISH PAVILION AT FAIR

The Ministry of State Responsible for the Maritime pointed out that the visitors show great interest in the Turkish pavilion at the fair that has been opened on 22 May with the participation of 156 countries.

A total of 1 million and 247 thousand people have visited the Turkish pavilion so far.

[20] TURKISH ATLANTIC COUNCIL DELEGATION IN BRUSSELS

The delegation composed of 11 persons, will proceed to Italy on Saturday after they conclude their contacts in Brussels, in order to visit the headquarters of the Southern European Allied Forces (AFSOUTH).

Dr. Muammer Baykan, the Secretary General of Turkish Atlantic Council, Cevad Odyakmaz, Yildirim Akturk, Saffet Arikan Beduk, Yilmaz Karakoyunlu, Hasan Korkmazcan, Sumer Oral, Ali Sahin, Metin Sahin, Turhan Tayan and Ertan Yulek are a part of the delegation.

[21] TURKISH-IRANIAN JOINT TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING ENDS - THE TRANSIT PASSAGE FEE WHICH WAS PAID BY TURKISH TRANSPORTERS IS ABOLISHED

The protocol, which foresees changes and reforms in the transportation between Turkey and Iran, was signed by Arif Ahmet Denizolgun, the Minister of Transportation and Communications and Mahmoud Hoccati, the Iranian Minister of Transportation.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Denizolgun stated that Iran decided to decrease the amount of the fee namely the ''difference in liquid fuel'' which she was taking from all foreign transports.

''The issues of customs had an important place in our meetings which lasted for three days. The two countries decided to cancel the passage reporting system, namely the ''Carnet de Passage''. Besides, the two sides will carry out a project by a close coordination with each other concerning the renewal and modernization of the Gurbulak border gate at both sides,'' Denizolgun added.

Hoccati, the Iraninan Minister of Transportation said that from now on the Turkish and Iranian citizens can easily visit each others' countries.

[22] TURKEY IN BRIEF - 10 SEPTEMBER 1998

Thus, the security forces rendered ineffective the three terrorists who had attacked Uzungol in August, killing a tourism manager.

ISTANBUL - Princess Birgitta, the sister of Sweden's King Carl Gustaf XVI, arrived in Istanbul on Wednesday for a private visit.

Princess Birgitta will visit historical and touristic sites in Istanbul.

ISTANBUL - Mustafa Tasar, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, left on Thursday for Germany to hold several contacts.

Prior to his departure, Tasar said he was leaving for Germany upon an invitation from Georg Lewandowski, the Mayor of Kassel, Germany.

LONDON - Ismet Sezgin, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, and General Ilhan Kilic, the Commander of the Air Forces, left Britain for Turkey on Thursday.

Sezgin had visited the Aviation and Weapon Industry Fair in Farnborough, and held talks with his British counterpart George Robertson.

General Kilic had attended the European Air Forces Commanders (EURAC) meeting that lasted for three days.

ANKARA - President Suleyman Demirel sent a message to his Uzbek counterpart Islam Kerimov and expressed condolences for the families of the victims of the flood disaster in the country, it was reported on Thursday.

REYHANLI - Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein, the son of King Hussein of Jordan came on Thursday to Turkey in order to proceed to the Adigene, Georgia, to attend the ''Circassian Festival'' on 29 September.

Prince Ali laid a wreath at the monument of Ataturk, the Founder of the Republic of Turkey, in Reyhanli County of Hatay Province.

He later visited Nihat Yildirim, the Deputy Governor of Hatay, Mehmet Hamurcu, the Governor of Reyhanli County, and Mahmut Ekmen, the Mayor of Reyhanli.

ISTANBUL - The Toprak Medical Drugs signed a licence agreement with the French Innothera Medical Drug firm, it was reported on Thursday.

Patrick Chadenet, the General Director of the Innothera Firm, Tevfik Bilge, the General Director of the Toprak Medical Drugs and Saadet Toprak the Deputy General Director of Toprak Medical Drugs, have signed the agreement in Paris.

In accordance with the agreement, the medicines named Ideos, Polygynax, Mucinum Cascaara, Tot'hema and Trassilane will be produced and marketed by the Toprak Medical Drugs in Turkey.

The Toprak Medical Drugs will also export the mentioned medicines to the Middle East and the Central Asian countries.

ANKARA - President Suleyman Demirel sent a message for a speedy recovery to his Macedonian counterpart Kiro Gligorov who has broken his arm, on Thursday.

ANKARA - President Suleyman Demirel received on Thursday Aleksandr Lebedev, the new Russian Ambassador to Turkey.

Lebedev presented Demirel with his letters of credence.

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