Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-06-15

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AA Daily

15 June 1999 Tuesday

CONTENTS

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

[02] TOWARDS A SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM - OKUYAN, MINISTER OF SOCIAL SECURITY: ''WE HAVEN'T FORMED A DRAFT LAW''

[03] IN FIRST FIVE MONTHS, 15.5 MILLION U.S. DOLLARS OF AGRICULTURAL AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS EXPORTED TO TURKISH REPUBLICS FROM GAP REGION

[04] IMF DELEGATION IN ISTANBUL - THE DELEGATION HEADED BY COTTARELLI, CHIEF OF IMF TURKEY DESK, VISITS TUSIAD

[05] CYPRUS ISSUE NOT INCLUDED IN OFFICIAL AGENDA OF G-8 SUMMIT

[06] NATIONAL DEFENSE MINISTER CAKMAKOGLU LEAVES FOR FRANCE

[07] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER FUTURE OF KOSOVO: - ''A POLITICAL SOLUTION FOR KOSOVO SHOULD BE BROUGHT ONTO AGENDA IMMEDIATELY''

[08] IMF DELEGATION IN ISTANBUL - COTTARELLI, CHIEF OF IMF TURKEY DESK: - ''TURKISH ECONOMY IS ON A TURNING POINT''

[09] DISCUSSION ON BUDGET - OKUYAN, MINISTER OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY: ''THERE IS NO OTHER COUNTRY IN THE WORLD WHERE PEOPLE CAN RETIRE AT THE AGE OF 38-43''

[10] THIRD ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH MINISTERS CONFERENCE - ENVIRONMENT MINISTER FEVZI AYTEKIN TO REPRESENT TURKEY AT THE CONFERENCE

[11] ILKORUR, EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER OF TUSIAN: ''IMF WISHES TO CONTRIBUTE, WITHIN ITS CAPACITY, TO TURKEY'S SEARCH FOR ECONOMIC STABILITY''

[12] DESA-OTAK AND NUOVO PIGNONE SIGN 17 MILLION US DOLLAR AGREEMENT

[13] MASS BLOW ON ILLEGAL FUNDAMENTALIST ORGANIZATION - STRUCTURING OF ILLEGAL TERRORIST VASAT ORGANIZATION WAS COLLAPSED IN ANKARA

[14] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES FRANCOIS PERIGOT, FRENCH EMPLOYERS CONFEDERATION CHAIRMAN AND AN ACCOMPANYING DELEGATION

[15] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES TADA DELEGATION - DEMIREL: ''THE ONES WHO CARRY PAST EVENTS INTO TODAY, NOT ONLY BLOCK TODAY BUT ALSO FUTURE''

[16] MINISTER OF EDUCATION BOSTANCIOGLU SAYS TURKEY WILL MEET NEEDS OF TURKISH SCHOOLS IN MACEDONIA

[17] TREASURY SELLS 2.3 QUADRILLION LIRAS NOMINAL-VALUED PAPERS IN TWO SEPARATE TENDERS

[18] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES DELEGATION OF TURKISH PARLIAMENTARIANS' UNION

[19] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT, VISITS TURKISH WARSHIPS - DENKTAS: ''DUE TO TURKISH WARSHIPS, OUR SEAS ARE FREE''

[20] PREMIER ECEVIT RECEIVES TURKISH-FRENCH BUSINESS COUNCIL DELEGATION

[21] DEVELOPMENTS IN KOSOVO - PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''TURKEY WILL MAKE REQUIRED CONTRIBUTION TO THE RE-CONSTRUCTION OF KOSOVO. BECAUSE WE ARE CLOSE RELATIVES''

[22] FOGG, EU'S REPRESENTATIVE TO ANKARA SAYS IT IS INEVITABLE THAT TURKEY AND EU SHOULD EXERT EFFORT TO PUT ALL THE RELATIONS IN A NEW TRACK IN A PERIOD WHEN RELATIONS HIT THE BOTTOM

[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN

HURRIYET (LIBERAL) PKK'S LEADER CANDIDATES SEEM FEARFUL
Murat Karayılan, one of the important names of the terrorist organization PKK harshly criticized Cemil Bayık, Osman Ocalan and Mustafa Karasu who compete to be the head of the terrorist organization. Karayılan said that these people are afraid of being captured like Abdullah Ocalan. Addressing to Ozgur Politika (Free Policy), the mouthpiece of the terrorist organization PKK, stated that ''the three don't count on each other. They only prevent each other from being the head.''

TELE-TAPPING TAPE IN FILE
The tape including the speech of Necmettin Erbakan, the leader of the banned Welfare Party (RP) with Yasin Hatipoglu, the former acting parliament speaker from the Virtue Party (FP) on the phone, was included in the file regarding the closure case of the Virtue Party (FP) in spite of the opposing view of the rapporteur of the Constitutional Court. The Court decided to evaluate during the decision stage whether or not the tape can be taken as a basis regarding the verdict that will be given.

MILLIYET (LIBERAL)

INCREASE IN WAGES OF CIVIL SERVANTS BY INSTALMENT
The Economy Council held a meeting yesterday and took up the issue of gradated increase in the wages of civil servants. The government thinks that the increase will bring a heavy burden on the budget and it should be realized gradually. A proposal will be offered to the cabinet asking for a 20 percent of increase in the wages of civil servants in July and for 5 percent increase in September.

SABAH (LIBERAL)

DYP TO FILE A SUIT AGAINST BILGIN
The claims of Omer Bilgin, a deputy of the True Path Party (DYP) created chaos in the party. The party will file a suit against him to get compensation. Meanwhile, a call for an extraordinary congress meeting was issued by the support of 46 provincial chairmen of DYP.

CUMHURIYET (LEFT)

NO SUPPORT FROM IMF IN ADVANCE
An IMF delegation headed by Carlo Cottarelli, the IMF Director of Turkey Desk will come to Turkey today to evaluate the developments in the Turkish economy. Willy Kiekens, the IMF Director for Europe said that the meetings to take place in Turkey are the first round and if they see the determination of the government, they will discuss the ''financial assistance.''

RADIKAL (LEFT)

LAWYERS OF OCALAN ON IMRALI ISLAND
Four of the lawyers of accused Abdullah Ocalan, head of terrorist organization, went to Imrali Island to meet with their client. Niyazi Bulgan, Irfan Dundar, Ahmet Avsar, and Serkan Akbas, the lawyers of Ocalan, refrained from responding to questions of journalists as they returned from the island. The trial of Ocalan was postponed to June 23 to give time for defense.

G-8'S SCENARIOS FOR CYPRUS
Glafcos Clerides, the leader of the Greek Cypriot administration, claimed that a new era has begun on Cyprus following joint statement of G-8 foreign ministers. Clerides claimed that the G-8 countries, including seven industrialized countries and Russia, prepared several scenarios to solve Cyprus question.

TÜRKİYE (RIGHT)

SAKAL-I SERIF STOLEN
''Sakal-ı Serif'' which was preserved in Gazi Ahmet Pasa Mosque in Istanbul, for 430 years, was stolen by an unidentified person. The incident happened when Muhammet Fersatol, the imam of the mosque, was out of the mosque where ''sakal-ı serif'' was kept in a lamp glass in a box.

IMF DELEGATION DUE IN TURKEY
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation headed by Carlo Cottarelli, the Director of Turkey Desk, will arrive in Turkey later today within the framework of the regular annual evaluation meetings.

The IMF delegation which will hold meetings with the Istanbul Industry Chamber (ISO), Istanbul Commerce Chamber (ITO), Banks Union, representatives of the private sector, and with finance circles in Istanbul between 15-16 June, will proceed to Ankara on June 17 and start its contacts.

ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE)

Proposal envisaging change in the 143rd Article of the Turkish Constitution regarded with the structure of the State Security Courts (DGMs) was adopted by the Parliamentary Constitution Commission in spite of opposition of the Virtue Party (FP) deputies, and some of the True Party Party (DYP) deputies.

ECEVIT DUE TO THE U.S.
Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit will pay a visit to Washington D.C. in September. Mark Parris, the U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, had conveyed the U.S. President Bill Clinton's letter inviting Ecevit to Washington D.C., on June 11.

[02] TOWARDS A SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM - OKUYAN, MINISTER OF SOCIAL SECURITY: ''WE HAVEN'T FORMED A DRAFT LAW''

Speaking to the A.A. correspondent, Okuyan said that the ministry has completed its studies on the part concerning the Social Security Authority (SSK), now they work on the Self-Employed Pension Fund (Bag-Kur) and they will start working on the issue concerning the State Employees Pension Fund this evening.

Okuyan added that they will try to gather all these studies till next Monday.

Stressing that there is not a draft law regarding the social security reform, Okuyan said ''there are reports submitted to us by sub-commissions, we discuss them, if there is a draft, I will submit it to the government.''

[03] IN FIRST FIVE MONTHS, 15.5 MILLION U.S. DOLLARS OF AGRICULTURAL AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS EXPORTED TO TURKISH REPUBLICS FROM GAP REGION

In the same period last year, the region exported 26 million 63 thousand U.S. dollars of agricultural and animal products to Turkish Republics.

Officials at the Southeastern Anatolia Exporters' Union, told the A.A correspondent that in the first five months of 1999, they exported 9 million 683 thousand U.S. dollars in textiles; 5 million 836 thousand U.S. dollars in grain-cereals; 25 thousand U.S. dollars in dried fruits and 3 thousand U.S. dollars in livestock.

Turkish goods in greatest demand were carpet, flour, plastic sack, margarine, biscuit, cake, chocolate, and candy.

[04] IMF DELEGATION IN ISTANBUL - THE DELEGATION HEADED BY COTTARELLI, CHIEF OF IMF TURKEY DESK, VISITS TUSIAD

The delegation visited the Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen Association (TUSIAD).

Korkmaz Ilkorur, the member of the Executive Board of the TUSIAD; Haluk Tukel, the Secretary General of the TUSIAD; Dr. Umit Izmen, the Deputy Secretary General of the TUSIAD; Hasan Colakoglu, the member of the Economic and Financial Affairs Commisson of the TUSIAD; Celik Kurdoglu, the member of the TUSIAD; and Ercan Kumcu, the Economic Adviser of TUSIAD, are in attendance at the meeting with the IMF delegation.

The IMF and the TUSIAD officials are expected to make a statement after the meeting.

[05] CYPRUS ISSUE NOT INCLUDED IN OFFICIAL AGENDA OF G-8 SUMMIT

Responding to questions of A.A. correspondent about the issue, a high ranking American official said that there are more than 20 subjects in the official agenda of the G-8 summit meeting, but the Cyprus issue is not one of them.

''G-8 meetings are flexible, one of the leaders can bring other issues, maybe the Cyprus issue to the agenda of the meeting. In such a case, the issue will be discussed. It is not clear whether or not this will happen. However, the Cyprus issue is not among the official issues of the meeting's agenda,'' said the same official.

Greece and the Greek Cypriots showed the inclusion of a paragraph which says that the Cyprus question has to be solved in the joint statement of G- 8 foreign ministers' meeting last week, as a victory. However, diplomatic observers stressed that this statement didn't go beyond supporting the initiatives of Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary General on Cyprus and bringing the two leaders together, adding this didn't carry any importance for Turkey.

''Such kind of decisions which were not binding were taken in the past and they didn't have any effect. The statement of G-8 foreign ministers is one of them,'' the sources said.

Diplomatic sources say that nevertheless the non-existence of the Cyprus issue in the G-8 summit's official agenda is positive for Turkey.

[06] NATIONAL DEFENSE MINISTER CAKMAKOGLU LEAVES FOR FRANCE

Addressing a press conference at the Esenboga Airport, Cakmakoglu said that 500-year-old relations between the two countries, continue to further improve in every field.

Cakmakoglu pointed out that he will exchange opinion with his French counterpart on issues such as defense industry, consortium, and partnerships between Turkey and France.

Stressing that they followed the inauguration of monument marking the so- called genocide on Armenians with deep grief, Cakmakoglu noted that he will have an opportunity to discuss the issue with French officials.

Noting that they want to see France to take part beside the Turkish policy, Cakmakoglu told reporters that he plans to scrutinize bilateral relations with France during his contacts in Paris.

When asked about the date of Turkish land forces' departure for Kosovo, Cakmakoglu said that they wait for NATO's invitation.

Cakmakoglu is expected to return to Turkey on June 17.

[07] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER FUTURE OF KOSOVO: - ''A POLITICAL SOLUTION FOR KOSOVO SHOULD BE BROUGHT ONTO AGENDA IMMEDIATELY''

Responding to questions about the latest developments in Kosovo, Prime Minister Ecevit said that an extremely dangerous process has begun in Kosovo.

Ecevit told reporters, ''unfortunately, Russia has created some troubles in her relations with the NATO. Now, solutions are being searched for these problems. Kosovo crisis has come to a critical point. Interior conflict possibilities should be eliminated instantly. The NATO tries to do its utmost on the issue, and will continue to do so.''

When asked whether murder of German journalists will damage the peace process, Ecevit said, ''of course, it will. Serbs seem to admit all conditions of peace deal, but on the other hand, they act against it. Murder of German journalists is a tragic incident. It is inhuman. I pray to God to save all journalists working in Kosovo.''

Reminding that Turkey had warned the NATO on the issue before, but her warnings were not evaluated properly, Ecevit added, ''I will meet with General Huseyin Kivrikoglu, the Chief of General Staff, later today. He will further inform me on the latest developments in Kosovo.''

[08] IMF DELEGATION IN ISTANBUL - COTTARELLI, CHIEF OF IMF TURKEY DESK: - ''TURKISH ECONOMY IS ON A TURNING POINT''

Responding to questions of journalists after the IMG delegation visited the Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen Association (TUSIAD), Cottarelli noted that Turkish economy has begun to ocercome last year's stagnation, and he added that it is too early to say whether or not Turkey left behind the stagnation completely.

Recalling that their visit to Turkey has two targets, Cottarelli told reporters that one of their targets is to hold regular annual evaluation meetings, and the second is to discuss IMF loan possibilities to support Turkey's programme againts inflation.

Noting that they took up the government programme at the meeting with the TUSIAD, Cottarelli stressed that they hope to take concrete steps during their visit to Turkey.

Cottarelli added that they are interested in making new arrengements with Turkey, adding that this is up to new government programme.

Carlo Cottarelli also said that they want to extend support to Turkey.

The IMF delegation is scheduled to hold contacts with business and finance circles in Istanbul.

[09] DISCUSSION ON BUDGET - OKUYAN, MINISTER OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY: ''THERE IS NO OTHER COUNTRY IN THE WORLD WHERE PEOPLE CAN RETIRE AT THE AGE OF 38-43''

Addressing a statement regarding the 1999 budget of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and its related institutions, which is taken up the Parliamentary Planning and Budget Commission, Okuyan stated that one of the most important tools of providing social justice is social security.

Noting that there are important problems in the field of social security in Turkey, Okuyan pointed out that ''the Treasury gave nearly 1.5 quadrillion of Turkish liras to the social security institutions to cover their deficits in 1998. The 1999 budget is foreseen to be 2,55 quadrillion Turkish liras; however, the deficits don't seem to be covered by that. Moreover, this amount is provided through internal debt and by high interest rates; thus, its cost to the Treasury is at least twice that amount.''

Noting that the deficits of the social security institutions constitute a heavy burden on the budget and economy, Okuyan said that the retired, widowed, and orphans are not satisfied with their pension and others are not satisfied with the services of the Social Security Authority (SSK).

Okuyan said that these services have to be improved, adding that the problem of social security is the problem of all sectors of the society.

''The retirement age has to be increased, and I suppose everybody agrees with that. But this is not enough, there is a need to make an overall revision in the system,'' he added.

Okuyan stressed that the budget of the SSK for 1999 is 3.5 quadrillion liras, but it will gain an income of 2.5 trillion liras, noting that they will bring the draft laws about ''Labour Unions of Public Servants and Establishment of Unemployment Insurance'' to the agenda of the parliament.

[10] THIRD ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH MINISTERS CONFERENCE - ENVIRONMENT MINISTER FEVZI AYTEKIN TO REPRESENT TURKEY AT THE CONFERENCE

Fevzi Aytekin, the Environment Minister, and a group of experts from the Environment and Health Ministries, will represent Turkey at the Conference.

Main theme of this year's conference was determined as sectors, organizations, and international cooperation for solution of the global or regional environment problems.

Meanwhile, health and environment ministers of 51 European countries who will come together within the framework of the conference, are expected to sign a protocol aiming at preventing water pollution.

Turkey will not sign the ''Water and Health Protocol'', and she will not accept the ''Transportation, Environment, and Health Condition''.

[11] ILKORUR, EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER OF TUSIAN: ''IMF WISHES TO CONTRIBUTE, WITHIN ITS CAPACITY, TO TURKEY'S SEARCH FOR ECONOMIC STABILITY''

During the meeting with the IMF delegation headed by Carlo Cottarelli, the Head of Turkey Desk, it was stated that Turkey entered the long waited political stability period.

Ilkorur explained to the delegation that the new government will work to implement the necessary reforms in Turkey and will take measures to maintain economic stability once the political stability is achieved. The IMF is willing to contribute, within their capacity, to Turkey's search for economic stability, Ilkorur noted.

Ilkorur also pointed out that the IMF delegation thinks Turkey can achieve a long lasting political stability if it uses this opportunity well, which can be interpreted as the IMF has no suspicions about the nature of the coalition.

Responding to a question, Ilkorur said they have not discussed the amount of the financial support during their meetings.

[12] DESA-OTAK AND NUOVO PIGNONE SIGN 17 MILLION US DOLLAR AGREEMENT

Pierluigi Ferrara, the Deputy Chairman of Nuovo Pignone and Selim Yasar, the Chairman of Desa-Otak Administration Board stated that the agreement covers two years. Ferrara stated that General Electric entered the globalization process, and buys and sells goods all around the world. ''Our agreement with Desa-Otak came after a long selection process. This cooperation will continue,'' Ferrara said.

Yasar said Desa-Otak's business volume was 47 million U.S. dollars, and its export was 11 million U.S. dollars last year and their export goal for this year is 22 million U.S. dollars. The new agreement will create employment for 100 people.

''Turkey will benefit from this energy agreement. We will sell gas and steam turbine equipments with the Italian Nuovo Pignone owned by the American company, General Electric. We have also held pre-meetings with General Electric and we will sit at a the table with them too, following this agreement,'' Yasar explained.

[13] MASS BLOW ON ILLEGAL FUNDAMENTALIST ORGANIZATION - STRUCTURING OF ILLEGAL TERRORIST VASAT ORGANIZATION WAS COLLAPSED IN ANKARA

Ankara Directorate of Security launched an operation against this organization upon the information which came from Malatya Directorate of Security which determined connections of the organization in eight provinces.

The 10 members of the organization which included drivers, tradesmen, and many people from various professions, were taken into custody after the operation.

Upon the searches made in houses and business places of the members, many documents belonging to the organization and many banned publishings were seized.

The target of the organization was to ''demolish existing constitutional, secular state order and to establish a religion state based on shariah principles.''

The notes which were given to the organization members claimed that Turkey was the ''field of war'' and make propaganda saying ''not to be an official of Pharaohs, not to be educated in their schools and not to make military service to them.''

The organization was established in 1992 by people who gathered around the ideas and views of a magazine named ''Sahabe''.

In the year 1996, the name of the magazine was changed to Vasat and a body was formed under this name.

The organization holds activities in two separate branches, one is the religious, and the other is the military. The organization was responsible for the bomb attack in a book sales stand in a fair in Gaziantep and bombings of three separate business places, and one ATM machine.

[14] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES FRANCOIS PERIGOT, FRENCH EMPLOYERS CONFEDERATION CHAIRMAN AND AN ACCOMPANYING DELEGATION

Addressing a meeting with Francois Perigot, Chairman of French Employers Conferenderation and an accompanying businessmen delegation, President Demirel said he had held a meeting with businessmen in Paris on May 4, adding that he received a warm welcome in Paris.

Noting that Turkey and France were the two old friends, Demirel said France regarded Turkey as a European since 1856. Demirel appreciated the support France expended to Turkey's membership to EU.

''There are five billion U.S. dollars trade volume between Turkey and France. There is no reason not to increase it,'' Demirel said.

President Demirel noted that France has 21 percent share within the foreign capital in Turkey, adding that this figure was the first in foreign capital in Turkey. He said there are nearly 230 French companies in Turkey.

Briefing about Turkey's tourism, Demirel said Turkey was the 13th country in tourism, adding that Turkey was the 16th country in the world for economic growth.

Demirel said Turkey's target was to catch 200 billion U.S. dollar trade volume, adding that Turkey wanted to double its investments mainly in energy and defense industry.

Demirel said Turkey tried to adjust its law and regulations to Europen Union (EU), and stressed that the government attributed importance to every free enterprise.

Pointing out that problem in tourism was of ''Kosovo origin'', adding that the problem was over at the moment and expressed belief that problems in tourism will end.

Demirel said although Turkey was affected from the economic crisis experienced in Russia and Far East countries, and stressed that Turkey made 70 percent of its exportation to European countries. ''Turkey's problem is not economic, but financial,'' Demirel said and pointed out that the government tried to take measures to overcome financial problems stemming from high interest.

Perigot in his part said the visit they paid to Turkey have three messages and named them as ''friendship'', ''confidence of French businessmen to Turkey'' and ''reforms they expected from Turkish Government.''

Perigot said they expected Turkish government to drop inflation and take measures that will speed up entrance of foreign capital.

French companies which also participated in the meeting promoted themselves and the business they do.

[15] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES TADA DELEGATION - DEMIREL: ''THE ONES WHO CARRY PAST EVENTS INTO TODAY, NOT ONLY BLOCK TODAY BUT ALSO FUTURE''

Demirel received the Turkish American Associations Assembly (TADA) at the Presidential Residence in Cankaya district.

Demirel recalled that he met with the representatives of TADA during his visit to Washington D.C. within the framework 50th anniversary of NATO and that he had told the representatives that there are a total of 600,000 Turks in the U.S. today.

Emphasizing that surviving in the U.S. where there is a merciless competition is not easy, Demirel noted that the Turks living in the U.S. are good in introducing Turkey there.

Demirel stated that the Greek and Armenian lobbies carry out some activities against Turkey and that the members of TADA have some problems resulting from these activities.

Reminding that these problems go back to past times, Demirel said, ''Ottoman Empire was a world country. When it collapsed, some problems were imposed on it. Later, these problems were inherited to the Turkish Republic. A total of 35 countries were established following the collapse of Ottoman Empire, but two countries could not been established. One of them is a Kurdish state and the other is an Armenian state. This fire has not been put out, yet.''

Stressing that the Armenian state was established in Caucasus ten years ago and that Turkey recognized this state, Demirel said, ''but, this state is looking at the past events rather than looking at the future. When this state was established, we said that we are a big state and that you cannot exist without us. We said that if they can be in friendly relations with us, we can help them. We told them that they can use our harbours, railways, and that they can benefit from Istanbul, a giant trading and culture center. We told them that if they think what had happened in the past, they cannot reach a good point.''

Noting that the Armenian and Greek lobies have hostility against Turkey, Demirel said, ''we do not carry out hostile policies against anybody, but the things Greece does are obvious. A total of 14 countries of the European Union (EU) decide in favour of Turkey while Greece hampers this. But Turkey is a big state and she is patient. She tries to solve her problems by using the diplomatic means until the very end.''

Stating that the tourism will facilitate the introduction of Turkey, Demirel stressed that many U.S. citizens come to Turkey and that the stagnation in tourism sector will be overcome soon.

Pointing out that the U.S. governments can understand the importance of Turkey, regardless of which political party rule the U.S.; Demirel said, ''they have supported us in all our big problems, but our relations with the U.S. depends on mutual interests. These relations have an importance for us and for the U.S.''

Emphasizing that Turkey and the U.S. have big efforts in Kosovo dispute, Demirel stated that Turkey, the U.S., France, Britain, and Germany realized a good cooperation in this issue.

Tolga Cubukcu, the Chairman of TADA, said that they got recommendations of the Turkish officials for improving the promotion of Turkey.

Stating that Turkey and the U.S. are two big allies, Cubukcu noted that despite this, the Greek and Armenian lobbies protect their own interests in the U.S. better than the Turkish lobby.

[16] MINISTER OF EDUCATION BOSTANCIOGLU SAYS TURKEY WILL MEET NEEDS OF TURKISH SCHOOLS IN MACEDONIA

About 80 thousand Turks live in Macedonia, Saban reminded and said they have Turkish schools in areas where the Turkish population is dense.

The education language at schools is Turkish. These schools have been following an eight year education programme since 1950's, she explained.

Bostancioglu pointed to the common culture shared by Turkey and Macedonia, two good friends and said ''there are no boundries in education. An educated child serves to the whole world as much as to her country. Thefore, education in one country is other countries' concern too.'' The Minister also stated that Turkey will help Turkish schools in Macedonia by sending them educational equipment.

[17] TREASURY SELLS 2.3 QUADRILLION LIRAS NOMINAL-VALUED PAPERS IN TWO SEPARATE TENDERS

At the 14-month debenture bond tender, a total of 2 quadrillion 141 trillion 770 billion TL of nominal valued and net 895 trillion 473 billion TL of debenture bonds were sold while the total bid was 2 quadrillion 691 trillion 16 billion TL.

The minimum composite interest rate was 105.16 percent while the maximum composite interest rate was 109 percent.

The minimum simple interest rate was 113.70 and the maximum simple interest rate was 118.12 percent while any paper was not sold to public.

At the 5-month bond tender, a total of 194.714 trillion TL nominal valued and net 145.984 trillion TL bonds were sold while the total bid was 293.4 trillion TL.

The minimum composite interest rate was 106.13 and the highest composite interest rate was 111.46. In the same bid, the simple interest rate was 83.40 percent and the simple maximum was 87.76 percent. Net 40 trillion TL of bonds were sold to public.

The value date for both papers is June 16 while the maturity is August 23, 2000 for debenture bonds and November 3, 1999 for bonds.

Meanwhile, the Treasury will realize a total of 1 quadrillion 89 trillion 95 billion TL in repayment of domestic borrowing on Wednesday.

The Treasury will repay 2 quadrillion 509 trillion 223.6 billion TL in domestic borrowing in June, 1999.

[18] PRESIDENT DEMIREL RECEIVES DELEGATION OF TURKISH PARLIAMENTARIANS' UNION

Demirel received the delegation of Turkish Parliamentarians' Union which was headed by Zeki Celiker, the Chairman of the Union, at the Presidential Residence in Cankaya district.

Demirel said that Turkey realized a free and fair elections in April 18 and that Turkish nation showed a maturity of democracy and gave a good exam.

Recalling that the members of the Council of Ministers visited him, Demirel said, ''I told them that they have an advantage because the majority of the parliament support them, but that they have a disadvantage because Turkey has many expectations.''

''Turkey is a state of institutions. The government is one of the institutions in a state of institutions, but the most important institution. However, it is not everything,'' Demirel added.

Stating that Turkish politicians should analyze the results of April elections, Demirel emphasized that the results of the elections should be analyzed for the future of Turkish politics, for the connection of Turkish politics with the regime and for the connection of the regime with the state.

Stressing that a new era is emerging and that Turkey should prepare itself for this new era, Demirel said, ''Turkey is in new searches in the threshold of this new era. The searches for the political stability is one of these searchings. Turkey should overcome the searches for political stability. I hope that the government can work in harmony and can solve the problems of Turkey. This will increase the prestige of the politics, politicians and the system.''

''This is a good starting point. But, this cannot end our searches for political stability. A total of 37.1 million people changed their votes in the elections. The commitment to the political party deteriorated. When the commitment to a political party deteriorates, we can face surprises. The change of votes can usually occur, but not this much,'' Demirel added.

Demirel stressed that Turkey should think about the changes to be realized in the democracy of the political parties and in the election system.

Meanwhile, Celiker reiterated their request for the change in the laws concerning the election system and the political parties and their demand for the discussion of presidency system and the half-presidency system.

[19] DENKTAS, TRNC PRESIDENT, VISITS TURKISH WARSHIPS - DENKTAS: ''DUE TO TURKISH WARSHIPS, OUR SEAS ARE FREE''

Speaking at TCG-Yildirim (Thunderbolt) Frigade, Denktas said that due to the Turkish warships, the seas are free and the distance between the motherland and Cyprus become shorter.

Emphasizing that the seas are under guarantee and the flags safely wave at the seas, Denktas noted that the Turkish warships brought peace and happiness with guarantee and safety.

Denktas was accompanied by Mustafa Akinci, TRNC Acting Prime Minister and State Minister, General Aydin Sen, Turkish Cypriot Peace Forces Commander, and Tahsin Ertugruloglu, TRNC Foreign and Defense Minister, during his visit.

[20] PREMIER ECEVIT RECEIVES TURKISH-FRENCH BUSINESS COUNCIL DELEGATION

The meeting which lasted for one hour was closed to the press.

Perigot responded the questions of the journalists following the meeting.

Perigot said that Ecevit and his delegation exchanged views about the investment areas of Turkey which concern the French companies.

Emphasizing that the energy, infrastructure, transportation and telecommunication fields were the main investment areas of Turkey, Perigot noted that they tried to learn how the partnerships can be improved and to learn the policies of the new government.

When asked his ideas about making investments in Turkey, Perigot stated that France is in the first place in the foreign investments in Turkey and that to this end, he thinks that increasing the French investments in Turkey is not necessary.

[21] DEVELOPMENTS IN KOSOVO - PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''TURKEY WILL MAKE REQUIRED CONTRIBUTION TO THE RE-CONSTRUCTION OF KOSOVO. BECAUSE WE ARE CLOSE RELATIVES''

Ecevit responded to the questions of journalists related with the developments in Kosovo.

When asked what they talked during the visit of Gen. Huseyin Kivrikoglu, Chief of General Staff, this morning, Ecevit said ''When the agreement reached on Kosovo begins to take effect, Kosovo should be developed and constructed and Kosovar Albanians and Turks, who were forced leave their houses, should return to their houses safely. Turkey will do its best to this end. In fact, Turkey was an example to the whole world in meeting humanitarian needs of Kosovar refugees. Of course, Turkey will make necessary contribution to the re-construction of Kosovo, because we are close relatives. Their problems are our problems.''

Responding to another question Ecevit said no call has come from NATO to Turkish Unit which was prepared to take task in Kosovo. Ecevit noted that this unit may be send mostly for humanitarian reasons.

When asked what were the concerns of Turkey regarding Kosovo, Ecevit said ''there is the possibility of continuation of internal clashes. In fact they continue now. There may be several problems in return of people who were forced to immigrate. Actually, healing of the wounds which are in the hearts of people will take time.''

Responding to another question Ecevit said he did not share the views that attitude of Russia would cause polarization like it happened in cold war period.

[22] FOGG, EU'S REPRESENTATIVE TO ANKARA SAYS IT IS INEVITABLE THAT TURKEY AND EU SHOULD EXERT EFFORT TO PUT ALL THE RELATIONS IN A NEW TRACK IN A PERIOD WHEN RELATIONS HIT THE BOTTOM

Addressing a meeting staged by Foreign Capital Association (YASED), Karen Fogg said EU's expansion concept should also be expanded, adding that there were many threats yet that there was required political willingness to meet these.

Pointing out that ending of Kosovo war brought a new chance for the installation of peace in the Balkans, Fogg said EU would be obliged to undertake more economic responsibilities from now on.

Fogg said EU brought European Strategy into the agenda for Turkey's membership, yet added that the process functioned slowly and noted that lack of confidence in both sides was the reason of this. She said efforts of Germany, EU Term President and Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit to make a new start were important. Fogg recalled that some of EU member countries supported Turkey's candidacy membership.

Noting that they hoped that Turkey has entered into a political stability period, Fogg recalled that the new government has majority in the parliament and pointed out that the government seemed to be resolved on the issue of economic reforms.

Karen Fogg pointed out that businessmen could play a vital role in relations adding that foreign capital representatives may contribute to the improvement of mutual understanding between EU and Turkey.

When recalled statements of representatives of several western countries that trial process of Abdullah Ocalan, head of terrorist organization, may start a new period in relations between the EU and Turkey, Fogg said she did not want to make a comment on the issue before the trial ends.

Speaking about Greece's support to head of terrorist organization, Fogg said EU did not have an important influence in struggle against terrorism, adding that it also did not have a sanction power on its members.

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