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Anadolu Agency: News in English, 99-09-28
AA Daily
28 Sept 1999 Tuesday
CONTENTS
[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN
[02] These are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in
Turkey's press on Sept 28, 1999. The Anadolu Ajansi does not verify these
stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.
[03] HURRIYET (LIBERAL) - ------------------ FIVE MINUTES AGO Terrorists in
Ankara Covered Prison took their picture with sticks in their hands five
minutes before starting their bloody revolt. It has been understood that
the wards were used as terrorist cells and the illegal extreme leftist
organizations made cooperation with each other in the prison. A rifle, a
shotgun, seven guns, two silencers, two hand-made bombs and many petrol
bombs were found in the controls held in Ulucanlar Prison of Ankara
yesterday.
[04] WE DIDN'T COME TO U.S. TO BEG Foreign Minister Ismail Cem and high
ranking officials explained the aim of Premier Bulent Ecevit's visit to the
U.S. to journalists and said that Premier Ecevit won't beg U.S. President
Bill Clinton to help Turkey. ''We are here to further improve the relations
between the two countries in 2000s,'' they said.
[05] MILLIYET (LIBERAL) - ----------------- DISASTER EVERY DAY After the
quake, we see many traffic accidents, uprisings in prisons in Turkey.
Yesterday an unregistered paint factory exploded. The explosion occurred at
about 14:45 local time in the workshop of the private factory namely Demet
Paint Factory on the Kurtkoy Industry Street in Pendik. As a result of the
explosion, the walls of the building collapsed, and fire broke out as the
equipment used in producing paint ignited. Six people died, four people are
missing and 40 people were wounded.
[06] EXPECTATIONS CHANGE The expectations from Prime Minister Bulent
Ecevit's visit to the U.S. were high, but now the Turkish officials point
out that their expectations will probably not fully come true.
[07] SABAH (LIBERAL) - -------------- ''COMMANDER, WE WON'T JOIN'' There
were also 23 PKK terrorists staying at the same ward with the illegal DHKP-
C and TIKKO members who clashed with the security forces in the Ankara
Prison. These PKK terrorists obeyed the call of their head and did not
revolt against the security forces. When the guarantee was given, those 23
terrorists including three women left the ward screaming, ''we won't join
this, commander.'' In the checks, officials found a roughly drawn plan
showing that the tunnel was dug in the bathroom part of the prison. The
riot in Ankara Prison was kept secret for 24 days. Actually, prison
officials couldn't carry out their duty to count the prisoners since
September 2.
[08] ECEVIT: ''I DIDN'T COME HERE FOR DOLLAR'' Turkey gave up her request
for the U.S.-guaranteed debenture bond. The interests of the military debts
will not be settled. The bargaining for textiles quota failed in bringing a
result. The situation in the economy part is not clear prior to the meeting
between Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit and U.S. President Bill Clinton. The
position of the Foreign Ministry is much more clearer: Turkey does not
intend to give up her rights on Cyprus and does not have an intention for
opposition. Its position concerning the issues from European Union to
Caucasus is very clear.
[09] CUMHURIYET (LEFT) - ---------------- PROTESTS CONTINUE IN PRISONS
Protests and keeping prison guards hostage continue in prisons of
Bayrampasa, Umraniye, Gebze, Bartın, Bergama, Canakkale, Aydın, Buca, Bursa
and Cankırı. A total of 76 prison guards are still kept hostage by
prisoners.
[10] ECEVIT: WE ARE DETERMINED ABOUT CYPRUS Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit,
who pays an official visit to the U.S. said that their target is to carry
the Turkish-American relations to the 21st century, adding Turkey won't
give concessions from its attitude regarding the Cyprus question. The aim
of the visit is to put the bilateral relations into a long-term plan.
[11] RADIKAL (LEFT) - --------------- MARMARA AND THRACE UNDER RISK
Scientists who say that there won't be an earthquake in Istanbul, add that
the latter will be affected by the fault lines in Marmara sea. It is
stressed that the center of Marmara region and Thrace are under the quake
risk.
[12] JUSTICE AWAKENS AT LAST The Prosecutorship in Yalova filed a suit
against the contractors and civil engineers of Ceylankent, Aydınkent and
Yuksel summer flats where more than 600 people died in the massive
earthquake that hit Marmara region of Turkey on August 17.
[13] TÜRKİYE (RIGHT) - ---------------- STRATEGICAL COOPERATION COMES FIRST
Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit will start his difficult bargain in the U.S.
today. Ecevit will meet with U.S. President Bill Clinton in White House.
Diplomatic circles evaluate the visit as a milestone in bilateral
relations.
[14] ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE) - -------------------- WHAT A COMFORT! The
prisoners are freely doing everything in prisons. The prisons does not have
a difference with the terrorist bases. There are every kind of weapons from
rifle guns to flame throwers. They are training themselves with scale model
rifles. They are planning assasinations. Such a freedom does not exist
outside. In the checks carried out following the clash in Ankara Prison, a
rifle, a shotgun, seven pistols, two silencers, two hand-made grenades and
a plenty of fire bombs were confiscated.
[15] FIRST LESSON AT GATA Giving the first lesson of the new education year
at the Gulhane Military Medical Faculty (GATA) with a ceremony, Brigadier
General Yalcin Isimer said, ''we won't say 'don't worry' to these people,
we will let them learn by heart,'' meaning the people who are opposed to
worship in Turkish language and Turkish Koran.
[16] IDEF 99 FAIR - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''WAR IS NOT A TARGET, THE TARGET IS
PEACE''
[17] ANKARA, Sept 28 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Tuesday
that the target was not war, but peace, adding that ''the weapons which
were used for war will be used to provide peace. If this can be understood
well, and if the balance can be preserved well, the sufferings of the 20th
century will not be repeated in the coming centuries.'' Addressing the
opening ceremony of IDEF 99, Demirel recalled that the fair was a defense
industry fair, and noted that works of the technology, samples and the
weapons were exhibited in the fair. Stressing that ''defense industry''
term was one which was carefully selected, Demirel said ''we don't say war
industry. We should altogether understand the meaning of this.'' Recalling
that 20th century was a stage to important wars, Demirel said weapons which
are products of war indsutry were used in these wars. Demirel said ''it has
been revealed that these weapons which were made by human beings were
devastating to human beings. Nearly 60-70 million people lost their lives
in the first and second World Wars. Many cities and counties were destroyed
and civilized countries were damaged. Yet, it was understood after 1945
that war was in vain. The target is not war, the target is peace. The
weapons which were used for war should be used to provide peace to
consolidate peace. This means, the weapons will be under the service of
defense industry. The term ''deterrence'' expresses one of the most
important concepts which human beings revealed. The weapons exist to
prevent war. If this can be understood well and if this balance can be
preserved well, the sufferings will not be repeated again.'' Demirel said
the world entered 21st century in an organized way, adding that the U.N.
and NATO took very important steps to this end and gained positive results.
Demirel said ''defense industry is the highest industry power of the
country. This means, the countries who could not succeed in industrialization,
will not have defense industry. Turkey has a defense industry. Armed forces
and defense industry of Turkey is for deterrence, to provide peace in the
region and to serve peace in the world. This was seen in various places
like Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo and Somalia. I consider them as very
important examples.'' Recalling that Turkey experienced a very important
quake disaster, Demirel said more than 15,000 people died and nearly 200,
000 houses were demolished. Demirel pointed out that 87 countries rushed to
the help of Turkey, adding that ''I think this is a very important incident
while entering to the year 2000's. I wish all the world countries to be in
this feeling and I also wish the weapons to be used for peaceful reasons.''
[18] PREMIER ECEVIT MEETS CLINTON, U.S. PRESIDENT
[19] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 29 (A.A) - Premier Bulent Ecevit met with Bill
Clinton, the U.S. President, at the White House on Tuesday evening. After
meeting with Al Gore, U.S. Vice-President, Ecevit came together with
Clinton at 8.05 p.m. local time. Following the official welcome ceremony
held in front of the White House, Ecevit and Clinton went to the Oval
Office where they will have tete-a-tete meeting. The meetings between the
delegations of the two countries will start after the meeting between
Ecevit and Clinton. The U.S. delegation presided by Clinton includes
Madeline Albright, the U.S. Secretary of State, the State Department
Undersecretary, Mark Parris, U.S. Ambassador to Ankara, and the high-
ranking officials from the Department of State, the Department of Trade and
the Department of Defense. The Chairman of the National Security Council or
the Assistant Chairman of the Council will participate in the U.S.
delegation. The Turkish delegation is composed of Premier Ecevit, Cumhur
Ersumer, Deputy Prime Minister and the Energy and Natural Resources
Minister, Recep Onal, the State Minister, Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister,
Kenan Tanrikulu, the Industry and Trade Minister, Uluc Ozulker, the Foreign
Ministry Deputy Undersecretary, Baki Ilkin, Turkey's Ambassador to
Washington D.C., Umit Pamir, Chief Foreign Counsellor of the Prime Ministry,
Ertugrul Ciragan and Oguz Demiralp, Foreign Ministry Counsellor. The
delegations will discuss the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline project, Turkmen natural
gas, free trade zone, the textile quotas imposed on Turkey, Cyprus, Iraq
and Turkish-Greek relations, the military credit relations and
democratization. Ecevit is expected to issue a statement following the
luncheon to which the officials of the two countries attend.
[20] ECEVIT-CLINTON MEETING - CLINTON, U.S. PRESIDENT, SAYS THERE ARE MANY
ISSUES TO DISCUSS WITH ECEVIT
[21] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 28 (A.A) - Bill Clinton, the U.S. President,
said on Tuesday that there are many issues to discuss with Premier Bulent
Ecevit; adding that the quake, Turkish-Greek relations, and the improving
relations between Turkey and the European Union (EU) are some of the issues
which will be discussed. The meeting between Ecevit and Clinton started at
8.05 p.m. local time. Madeleine Albright, the U.S. Secretary of State,
Sandy Burger, the National Security Consultant of Clinton, Mark Parris, the
U.S. Ambassador to Ankara, participated in the meeting. Ismail Cem, the
Foreign Minister, Cumhur Ersumer, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Energy
and Natural Resources Minister, Ahmet Kenan Tanrikulu, the Industry and
Trade Minister, and Recep Onal, the State Minister, also attended the
meeting between Ecevit and Clinton. Prior to the meeting, Clinton said that
he is very pleased to host Ecevit in the White House and defined Ecevit as
''a distinguished leader.'' Praising Turkey's cooperation in Kosovo dispute
as a NATO ally, Clinton noted that there are many issues to discuss with
Ecevit, including the quake, Turkish-Greek relations, Cyprus, human rights,
economic reforms and the improving relations between Turkey and the EU.
When asked whether or not the U.S. will continue to support the Baku-Ceyhan
pipeline project, Clinton said that U.S. stance was in favour of Turkey in
this issue and that the stance will not change. Responding a question about
Cyprus, Clinton said that he believes that the two sides can reach an
agreement upon having meetings without any preconditions under the
mediation of the United Nations (U.N.) Responding a question about Turkey-
EU relations, Clinton noted that the improvement in the relations with
Greece and the human rights will help Turkey improve her relations with the
EU. Clinton said that the U.S. supports Turkey's integration with the EU
since he was chosen as the U.S. President and that this is very important
for the future of the world.
[22] MEETING BETWEEN PREMIER ECEVIT AND CLINTON, U.S. PRESIDENT, ENDS
[23] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 28 (A.A) - The meeting between Premier Bulent
Ecevit and Bill Clinton, U.S. President, ended on Tuesday night. Following
his meeting with Clinton which lasted for two hours, Ecevit said that it
was a very sincere meeting and that they discussed all the global issues.
Ecevit added that Clinton realized that Turkey is a very important country.
Emphasizing that he expects Clinton to issue a statement about the quake
assistance to Turkey in the following few days, Ecevit noted that he hopes
this will be satisfactory for Turkey. Stressing that he saw that Clinton is
willing to make contributions to Turkey's economy, Ecevit stated that they
will see the results of this in a few days. Ecevit continued, ''it was a
very sincere meeting. We discussed many important issues. We especially
discussed the bilateral relations between Turkey and the U.S. Our relations
started to carry importance for the world. Because Turkey plays a leading
role in the changing world. The U.S. saw Turkey's developing position in
the world. Clinton is willing to contribute to Turkey's economy. We will
see the results of this in a few days.'' Later, Ecevit went to the Blair
House.
[24] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO STATE THE NEED OF
IMPROVING ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE OF POLITICAL SECURITY AND MILITARY
RELATIONS WITH U.S.''
[25] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 28 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on
Monday that ''as the relations between Turkey and the U.S. are improving in
the fields of political security and military, we have the right to state
the need of improving economic infrastructure of them.'' Receiving Turkish
businessmen in Mayflower Hotel, Prime Minister Ecevit said that while the
relations with the U.S. are improving in many fields particularly in
politics and military, trade remained behind. Noting that the trade volume
with the U.S. was 6.3 billion dollars in 1997, Premier Ecevit pointed out
that this number didn't change in 1998, but it decreased by 29 percent in
the first half of 1999. Turkish enterpreneurs complain about the textile
quotas applied by the U.S. and they are right, said Ecevit, adding ''the
U.S. insists on Turkey's being a member of the European Union (EU) by good
intention, but she does not recognize the rights she recognized to the EU
to Turkey regarding quotas. We have to remind this to our American
friends.'' Noting that Turkey's exports shouldn't be dependent on textile,
Premier Ecevit stated that structural changes are also necessary in textile
industry. More product and market variation is required in textile, said
Ecevit, adding ''we couldn't sufficiently explain the U.S. the difficulty
of Turkey due to the embargo imposed on Iraq. Turkey lost 35 billion
dollars due to its limited economic relations with Iraq in the last 8-9
years. Turkey's commercial relations with other Arab countries weakened and
the authority gap in Iraq increased our security costs. Americans have
fairness. Not only our state, but enterpreneurs should also focus on this
issue.'' Referring to privatized industry zone, Prime Minister Bulent
Ecevit said that this implementation which helped in the development of
Israel and Jordan can also be carried out in southeastern and eastern
regions of Turkey. Ecevit sent the message to the U.S. that ''as you give
importance to development in Southeast Turkey, then you can help us in
doing that.'' Pointing out that when the bi-polar world ended by the
dissolution of the Soviet Union, the function areas of NATO broadened,
Premier Ecevit said that the functions of Turkey in the military field also
increased. The region of Turkey went too far from her border neighbours,
said Ecevit, adding that Turkey is a key country in the process of being
Euroasian and her political, military and economic importance have also
increased recently. ''Our coalition government showed an extraordinary
performance in three months, the parliament abided by that and as a result
the parliament passed 67 laws,'' said Ecevit. Fuat Miras, the Chairman of
the Turkish Union of Chambers and Stock Exchanges (TOBB) said that they
expect the contributions of the U.S. to heal the wounds of Turkey following
the quake disaster. Miras stressed that the full support of IMF, EU and
World Bank is the expectation of the Turkish nation. Erkut Yucaoglu, the
Chairman of the Association of Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen
(TUSIAD) said in his part that ''a stand-by with IMF should start to be
implemented and the ways to realize the targets of a reform budget for 2000
and a low inflation have to be opened.'' Noting that they want to get the
signal of privatization from Ecevit's government, Yucaoglu said that they
desire continuation of reform laws.
[26] DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER DEVLET BAHCELI:''ALTHOUGH TURKISH DEFENSE
INDUSTRY HAS DEVELOPED AN EXPORT CAPACITY IN RECENT YEARS,
[27] ANKARA, Sept 28 (A.A) - Devlet Bahceli, the Acting Prime Minister,
said on Tuesday that ''Turkey was not in an armament competition, however
it has to be strong because of the jeostrategic and jeopolitic position to
contribute global and regional peace and stability''. Bahceli who spoke at
the IDEF-99's opening said new foreign enterpreneurs were interested in
investing in Turkish defense industry which is important to bring modern
technologies to Turkey. He said they were ready to give all kinds of
support to technology and capital transfer to countries and institutions
who openly want cooperation with Turkey. ''I believe that our businessmen
and investors will evaluate the opportunities in the best way. Turkey is
working to modernize its army with its limited resourses and it will
provide its defense equipment within the country as possible as it could.
This way it will be possible to allocate more resources for the
modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces,'' Bahceli explained. Bahceli
also stated that after the cold war some threats against Turkey continued
to exist in various forms. Turkey will be open to foreign countries in its
defense industry, but it will not allow this to turn into a dependency, he
stressed. Bahceli said with the foundation of the Republic, creating a
national defense industry gained importance. Ataturk always showed social,
cultural and economic development as a target to Turkish people, he stated.
''The last 75 years has been very important in our nation's life. Turkey
has become powerful in industry fields which are very important in the
world. In the recent years, especially the defense industry has become
strong with the contribution of local and foreign private sector,
information and technology. Turkey came to a point where it can produce the
most modern arms and defense equipment. However, although it is self-
sufficient in certain fields and has a certain export capacity, it could
not reach the desired level in foreign markets. Lack of promotion is the
biggest factor of this. I hope that the fair will contribute to the
promotion of Turkish firms,'' he said.
[28] FINANCE MINISTER SUMER ORAL:''2000 BUDGET WILL BE A SERIOUS STEP TO
DETERMINE TURKEY'S LONG TERM FINANCIAL BALANCES''
[29] IZMIR, Sept 28 (A.A) - Sumer Oral, the Minister of Finance said on
Tuesday that ''the 2000 budget would be a serious step to determine
Turkey's long-term financial balances. Oral told A.A that the budget works
continued at technical level and added that he would personally start
working on it on the first week of October. Oral will discuss the 2000
budget with all the ministers and then review it at the Ministers Council
before it is submitted to the Parliament on October 17. The 2000 budget's
plan was completed, however the experts who participated in these works are
in Washington, D.C. to attend the IMF's meetings, Oral reminded. ''The 2000
budget is very important for Turkey. It will be a bit difficult, but it is
a serious step to determine Turkey's long-term financial balances,'' Sumer
said. The Minister refrained from giving a figure for the size of the
budget but stated that ''all resources would be used in the most
rationalist way''. Responding to the criticisms, Oral said he didn't agree
that Izmit did not get a share from the budget and stressed that he knew
Izmir's problems well and the investments it needs. ''As a regional deputy,
I am sensitive towards Izmir's issues. Izmir will be represented better in
the new budget,'' Oral said. Turkey is going through a hard time following
the devastating earthquake which hit Turkey's Marmara region on August 17
and the government is working on a additional budget draft law to meet the
damage caused by the quake. ''Of course, there will be a tax. In order to
pay your expenses, you have to have an income. Otherwise, there will be
deficit financing or borrowing. This matter will be discussed by the
government after the recess period ends. ''The government will discuss the
additional budget draft law after the recess period ends. The disaster's
financial cost should be revealed in order to meet the damage. Turkey
received foreign resources after the disaster. Most of these resources are
credits. We will evaluate all alternatives,'' Oral explained.
[30] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER ANNOUNCES DEATH TOLL AS 15,802
[31] ANKARA, Sept 28 (A.A) - The Prime Ministry Crisis Management Center
announced death toll as 15,802 as of 11:30 local time on Tuesday in the
wake of the 7.4-magnitude earthquake which devastated Marmara Region on
August 17. A total of 43,872 people were injured in the quake. Officials at
the Prime Ministry Crisis Management Center told the A.A correspondent that
a total of 112,445 tents have been distributed in the disaster area so far.
Works to haul away rubble of 2,717 collapsed buildings were finalized.
There are 8,777 collapsed buildings to be removed while 8,730 others which
were seriously damaged in the quake, will be demolished in coming days. A
total of 66,441 dwellings and 10,901 business places were seriously damaged,
and a total of 80,160 dwellings and 9,712 business places were slightly
damaged while moderate damage were determined in a total of 67,242
dwellings and 9,927 business places. Construction of prefabricated houses
is continuing in the disaster zone. Meanwhile, a total of 58 trillion 829
billion 709 million Turkish Liras have been collected in the bank account
opened at the Ziraat Bank as of September 27, 1999.
[01] TURKEY-PRESS SCAN
[02] These are some of the major headlines and their brief stories in
Turkey's press on Sept 28, 1999. The Anadolu Ajansi does not verify these
stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.
[03] HURRIYET (LIBERAL) - ------------------ FIVE MINUTES AGO Terrorists in
Ankara Covered Prison took their picture with sticks in their hands five
minutes before starting their bloody revolt. It has been understood that
the wards were used as terrorist cells and the illegal extreme leftist
organizations made cooperation with each other in the prison. A rifle, a
shotgun, seven guns, two silencers, two hand-made bombs and many petrol
bombs were found in the controls held in Ulucanlar Prison of Ankara
yesterday.
[04] WE DIDN'T COME TO U.S. TO BEG Foreign Minister Ismail Cem and high
ranking officials explained the aim of Premier Bulent Ecevit's visit to the
U.S. to journalists and said that Premier Ecevit won't beg U.S. President
Bill Clinton to help Turkey. ''We are here to further improve the relations
between the two countries in 2000s,'' they said.
[05] MILLIYET (LIBERAL) - ----------------- DISASTER EVERY DAY After the
quake, we see many traffic accidents, uprisings in prisons in Turkey.
Yesterday an unregistered paint factory exploded. The explosion occurred at
about 14:45 local time in the workshop of the private factory namely Demet
Paint Factory on the Kurtkoy Industry Street in Pendik. As a result of the
explosion, the walls of the building collapsed, and fire broke out as the
equipment used in producing paint ignited. Six people died, four people are
missing and 40 people were wounded.
[06] EXPECTATIONS CHANGE The expectations from Prime Minister Bulent
Ecevit's visit to the U.S. were high, but now the Turkish officials point
out that their expectations will probably not fully come true.
[07] SABAH (LIBERAL) - -------------- ''COMMANDER, WE WON'T JOIN'' There
were also 23 PKK terrorists staying at the same ward with the illegal DHKP-
C and TIKKO members who clashed with the security forces in the Ankara
Prison. These PKK terrorists obeyed the call of their head and did not
revolt against the security forces. When the guarantee was given, those 23
terrorists including three women left the ward screaming, ''we won't join
this, commander.'' In the checks, officials found a roughly drawn plan
showing that the tunnel was dug in the bathroom part of the prison. The
riot in Ankara Prison was kept secret for 24 days. Actually, prison
officials couldn't carry out their duty to count the prisoners since
September 2.
[08] ECEVIT: ''I DIDN'T COME HERE FOR DOLLAR'' Turkey gave up her request
for the U.S.-guaranteed debenture bond. The interests of the military debts
will not be settled. The bargaining for textiles quota failed in bringing a
result. The situation in the economy part is not clear prior to the meeting
between Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit and U.S. President Bill Clinton. The
position of the Foreign Ministry is much more clearer: Turkey does not
intend to give up her rights on Cyprus and does not have an intention for
opposition. Its position concerning the issues from European Union to
Caucasus is very clear.
[09] CUMHURIYET (LEFT) - ---------------- PROTESTS CONTINUE IN PRISONS
Protests and keeping prison guards hostage continue in prisons of
Bayrampasa, Umraniye, Gebze, Bartın, Bergama, Canakkale, Aydın, Buca, Bursa
and Cankırı. A total of 76 prison guards are still kept hostage by
prisoners.
[10] ECEVIT: WE ARE DETERMINED ABOUT CYPRUS Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit,
who pays an official visit to the U.S. said that their target is to carry
the Turkish-American relations to the 21st century, adding Turkey won't
give concessions from its attitude regarding the Cyprus question. The aim
of the visit is to put the bilateral relations into a long-term plan.
[11] RADIKAL (LEFT) - --------------- MARMARA AND THRACE UNDER RISK
Scientists who say that there won't be an earthquake in Istanbul, add that
the latter will be affected by the fault lines in Marmara sea. It is
stressed that the center of Marmara region and Thrace are under the quake
risk.
[12] JUSTICE AWAKENS AT LAST The Prosecutorship in Yalova filed a suit
against the contractors and civil engineers of Ceylankent, Aydınkent and
Yuksel summer flats where more than 600 people died in the massive
earthquake that hit Marmara region of Turkey on August 17.
[13] TÜRKİYE (RIGHT) - ---------------- STRATEGICAL COOPERATION COMES FIRST
Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit will start his difficult bargain in the U.S.
today. Ecevit will meet with U.S. President Bill Clinton in White House.
Diplomatic circles evaluate the visit as a milestone in bilateral
relations.
[14] ZAMAN (CONSERVATIVE) - -------------------- WHAT A COMFORT! The
prisoners are freely doing everything in prisons. The prisons does not have
a difference with the terrorist bases. There are every kind of weapons from
rifle guns to flame throwers. They are training themselves with scale model
rifles. They are planning assasinations. Such a freedom does not exist
outside. In the checks carried out following the clash in Ankara Prison, a
rifle, a shotgun, seven pistols, two silencers, two hand-made grenades and
a plenty of fire bombs were confiscated.
[15] FIRST LESSON AT GATA Giving the first lesson of the new education year
at the Gulhane Military Medical Faculty (GATA) with a ceremony, Brigadier
General Yalcin Isimer said, ''we won't say 'don't worry' to these people,
we will let them learn by heart,'' meaning the people who are opposed to
worship in Turkish language and Turkish Koran.
[16] IDEF 99 FAIR - PRESIDENT DEMIREL: ''WAR IS NOT A TARGET, THE TARGET IS
PEACE''
[17] ANKARA, Sept 28 (A.A) - President Suleyman Demirel said on Tuesday
that the target was not war, but peace, adding that ''the weapons which
were used for war will be used to provide peace. If this can be understood
well, and if the balance can be preserved well, the sufferings of the 20th
century will not be repeated in the coming centuries.'' Addressing the
opening ceremony of IDEF 99, Demirel recalled that the fair was a defense
industry fair, and noted that works of the technology, samples and the
weapons were exhibited in the fair. Stressing that ''defense industry''
term was one which was carefully selected, Demirel said ''we don't say war
industry. We should altogether understand the meaning of this.'' Recalling
that 20th century was a stage to important wars, Demirel said weapons which
are products of war indsutry were used in these wars. Demirel said ''it has
been revealed that these weapons which were made by human beings were
devastating to human beings. Nearly 60-70 million people lost their lives
in the first and second World Wars. Many cities and counties were destroyed
and civilized countries were damaged. Yet, it was understood after 1945
that war was in vain. The target is not war, the target is peace. The
weapons which were used for war should be used to provide peace to
consolidate peace. This means, the weapons will be under the service of
defense industry. The term ''deterrence'' expresses one of the most
important concepts which human beings revealed. The weapons exist to
prevent war. If this can be understood well and if this balance can be
preserved well, the sufferings will not be repeated again.'' Demirel said
the world entered 21st century in an organized way, adding that the U.N.
and NATO took very important steps to this end and gained positive results.
Demirel said ''defense industry is the highest industry power of the
country. This means, the countries who could not succeed in industrialization,
will not have defense industry. Turkey has a defense industry. Armed forces
and defense industry of Turkey is for deterrence, to provide peace in the
region and to serve peace in the world. This was seen in various places
like Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo and Somalia. I consider them as very
important examples.'' Recalling that Turkey experienced a very important
quake disaster, Demirel said more than 15,000 people died and nearly 200,
000 houses were demolished. Demirel pointed out that 87 countries rushed to
the help of Turkey, adding that ''I think this is a very important incident
while entering to the year 2000's. I wish all the world countries to be in
this feeling and I also wish the weapons to be used for peaceful reasons.''
[18] PREMIER ECEVIT MEETS CLINTON, U.S. PRESIDENT
[19] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 29 (A.A) - Premier Bulent Ecevit met with Bill
Clinton, the U.S. President, at the White House on Tuesday evening. After
meeting with Al Gore, U.S. Vice-President, Ecevit came together with
Clinton at 8.05 p.m. local time. Following the official welcome ceremony
held in front of the White House, Ecevit and Clinton went to the Oval
Office where they will have tete-a-tete meeting. The meetings between the
delegations of the two countries will start after the meeting between
Ecevit and Clinton. The U.S. delegation presided by Clinton includes
Madeline Albright, the U.S. Secretary of State, the State Department
Undersecretary, Mark Parris, U.S. Ambassador to Ankara, and the high-
ranking officials from the Department of State, the Department of Trade and
the Department of Defense. The Chairman of the National Security Council or
the Assistant Chairman of the Council will participate in the U.S.
delegation. The Turkish delegation is composed of Premier Ecevit, Cumhur
Ersumer, Deputy Prime Minister and the Energy and Natural Resources
Minister, Recep Onal, the State Minister, Ismail Cem, the Foreign Minister,
Kenan Tanrikulu, the Industry and Trade Minister, Uluc Ozulker, the Foreign
Ministry Deputy Undersecretary, Baki Ilkin, Turkey's Ambassador to
Washington D.C., Umit Pamir, Chief Foreign Counsellor of the Prime Ministry,
Ertugrul Ciragan and Oguz Demiralp, Foreign Ministry Counsellor. The
delegations will discuss the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline project, Turkmen natural
gas, free trade zone, the textile quotas imposed on Turkey, Cyprus, Iraq
and Turkish-Greek relations, the military credit relations and
democratization. Ecevit is expected to issue a statement following the
luncheon to which the officials of the two countries attend.
[20] ECEVIT-CLINTON MEETING - CLINTON, U.S. PRESIDENT, SAYS THERE ARE MANY
ISSUES TO DISCUSS WITH ECEVIT
[21] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 28 (A.A) - Bill Clinton, the U.S. President,
said on Tuesday that there are many issues to discuss with Premier Bulent
Ecevit; adding that the quake, Turkish-Greek relations, and the improving
relations between Turkey and the European Union (EU) are some of the issues
which will be discussed. The meeting between Ecevit and Clinton started at
8.05 p.m. local time. Madeleine Albright, the U.S. Secretary of State,
Sandy Burger, the National Security Consultant of Clinton, Mark Parris, the
U.S. Ambassador to Ankara, participated in the meeting. Ismail Cem, the
Foreign Minister, Cumhur Ersumer, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Energy
and Natural Resources Minister, Ahmet Kenan Tanrikulu, the Industry and
Trade Minister, and Recep Onal, the State Minister, also attended the
meeting between Ecevit and Clinton. Prior to the meeting, Clinton said that
he is very pleased to host Ecevit in the White House and defined Ecevit as
''a distinguished leader.'' Praising Turkey's cooperation in Kosovo dispute
as a NATO ally, Clinton noted that there are many issues to discuss with
Ecevit, including the quake, Turkish-Greek relations, Cyprus, human rights,
economic reforms and the improving relations between Turkey and the EU.
When asked whether or not the U.S. will continue to support the Baku-Ceyhan
pipeline project, Clinton said that U.S. stance was in favour of Turkey in
this issue and that the stance will not change. Responding a question about
Cyprus, Clinton said that he believes that the two sides can reach an
agreement upon having meetings without any preconditions under the
mediation of the United Nations (U.N.) Responding a question about Turkey-
EU relations, Clinton noted that the improvement in the relations with
Greece and the human rights will help Turkey improve her relations with the
EU. Clinton said that the U.S. supports Turkey's integration with the EU
since he was chosen as the U.S. President and that this is very important
for the future of the world.
[22] MEETING BETWEEN PREMIER ECEVIT AND CLINTON, U.S. PRESIDENT, ENDS
[23] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 28 (A.A) - The meeting between Premier Bulent
Ecevit and Bill Clinton, U.S. President, ended on Tuesday night. Following
his meeting with Clinton which lasted for two hours, Ecevit said that it
was a very sincere meeting and that they discussed all the global issues.
Ecevit added that Clinton realized that Turkey is a very important country.
Emphasizing that he expects Clinton to issue a statement about the quake
assistance to Turkey in the following few days, Ecevit noted that he hopes
this will be satisfactory for Turkey. Stressing that he saw that Clinton is
willing to make contributions to Turkey's economy, Ecevit stated that they
will see the results of this in a few days. Ecevit continued, ''it was a
very sincere meeting. We discussed many important issues. We especially
discussed the bilateral relations between Turkey and the U.S. Our relations
started to carry importance for the world. Because Turkey plays a leading
role in the changing world. The U.S. saw Turkey's developing position in
the world. Clinton is willing to contribute to Turkey's economy. We will
see the results of this in a few days.'' Later, Ecevit went to the Blair
House.
[24] PRIME MINISTER ECEVIT: ''WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO STATE THE NEED OF
IMPROVING ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE OF POLITICAL SECURITY AND MILITARY
RELATIONS WITH U.S.''
[25] WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 28 (A.A) - Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said on
Monday that ''as the relations between Turkey and the U.S. are improving in
the fields of political security and military, we have the right to state
the need of improving economic infrastructure of them.'' Receiving Turkish
businessmen in Mayflower Hotel, Prime Minister Ecevit said that while the
relations with the U.S. are improving in many fields particularly in
politics and military, trade remained behind. Noting that the trade volume
with the U.S. was 6.3 billion dollars in 1997, Premier Ecevit pointed out
that this number didn't change in 1998, but it decreased by 29 percent in
the first half of 1999. Turkish enterpreneurs complain about the textile
quotas applied by the U.S. and they are right, said Ecevit, adding ''the
U.S. insists on Turkey's being a member of the European Union (EU) by good
intention, but she does not recognize the rights she recognized to the EU
to Turkey regarding quotas. We have to remind this to our American
friends.'' Noting that Turkey's exports shouldn't be dependent on textile,
Premier Ecevit stated that structural changes are also necessary in textile
industry. More product and market variation is required in textile, said
Ecevit, adding ''we couldn't sufficiently explain the U.S. the difficulty
of Turkey due to the embargo imposed on Iraq. Turkey lost 35 billion
dollars due to its limited economic relations with Iraq in the last 8-9
years. Turkey's commercial relations with other Arab countries weakened and
the authority gap in Iraq increased our security costs. Americans have
fairness. Not only our state, but enterpreneurs should also focus on this
issue.'' Referring to privatized industry zone, Prime Minister Bulent
Ecevit said that this implementation which helped in the development of
Israel and Jordan can also be carried out in southeastern and eastern
regions of Turkey. Ecevit sent the message to the U.S. that ''as you give
importance to development in Southeast Turkey, then you can help us in
doing that.'' Pointing out that when the bi-polar world ended by the
dissolution of the Soviet Union, the function areas of NATO broadened,
Premier Ecevit said that the functions of Turkey in the military field also
increased. The region of Turkey went too far from her border neighbours,
said Ecevit, adding that Turkey is a key country in the process of being
Euroasian and her political, military and economic importance have also
increased recently. ''Our coalition government showed an extraordinary
performance in three months, the parliament abided by that and as a result
the parliament passed 67 laws,'' said Ecevit. Fuat Miras, the Chairman of
the Turkish Union of Chambers and Stock Exchanges (TOBB) said that they
expect the contributions of the U.S. to heal the wounds of Turkey following
the quake disaster. Miras stressed that the full support of IMF, EU and
World Bank is the expectation of the Turkish nation. Erkut Yucaoglu, the
Chairman of the Association of Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen
(TUSIAD) said in his part that ''a stand-by with IMF should start to be
implemented and the ways to realize the targets of a reform budget for 2000
and a low inflation have to be opened.'' Noting that they want to get the
signal of privatization from Ecevit's government, Yucaoglu said that they
desire continuation of reform laws.
[26] DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER DEVLET BAHCELI:''ALTHOUGH TURKISH DEFENSE
INDUSTRY HAS DEVELOPED AN EXPORT CAPACITY IN RECENT YEARS, IT STILL
COULDN'T REACH THE DESIRED LEVEL''</B>
[27] ANKARA, Sept 28 (A.A) - Devlet Bahceli, the Acting Prime Minister,
said on Tuesday that ''Turkey was not in an armament competition, however
it has to be strong because of the jeostrategic and jeopolitic position to
contribute global and regional peace and stability''. Bahceli who spoke at
the IDEF-99's opening said new foreign enterpreneurs were interested in
investing in Turkish defense industry which is important to bring modern
technologies to Turkey. He said they were ready to give all kinds of
support to technology and capital transfer to countries and institutions
who openly want cooperation with Turkey. ''I believe that our businessmen
and investors will evaluate the opportunities in the best way. Turkey is
working to modernize its army with its limited resourses and it will
provide its defense equipment within the country as possible as it could.
This way it will be possible to allocate more resources for the
modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces,'' Bahceli explained. Bahceli
also stated that after the cold war some threats against Turkey continued
to exist in various forms. Turkey will be open to foreign countries in its
defense industry, but it will not allow this to turn into a dependency, he
stressed. Bahceli said with the foundation of the Republic, creating a
national defense industry gained importance. Ataturk always showed social,
cultural and economic development as a target to Turkish people, he stated.
''The last 75 years has been very important in our nation's life. Turkey
has become powerful in industry fields which are very important in the
world. In the recent years, especially the defense industry has become
strong with the contribution of local and foreign private sector,
information and technology. Turkey came to a point where it can produce the
most modern arms and defense equipment. However, although it is self-
sufficient in certain fields and has a certain export capacity, it could
not reach the desired level in foreign markets. Lack of promotion is the
biggest factor of this. I hope that the fair will contribute to the
promotion of Turkish firms,'' he said.
[28] FINANCE MINISTER SUMER ORAL:''2000 BUDGET WILL BE A SERIOUS STEP TO
DETERMINE TURKEY'S LONG TERM FINANCIAL BALANCES''
[29] IZMIR, Sept 28 (A.A) - Sumer Oral, the Minister of Finance said on
Tuesday that ''the 2000 budget would be a serious step to determine
Turkey's long-term financial balances. Oral told A.A that the budget works
continued at technical level and added that he would personally start
working on it on the first week of October. Oral will discuss the 2000
budget with all the ministers and then review it at the Ministers Council
before it is submitted to the Parliament on October 17. The 2000 budget's
plan was completed, however the experts who participated in these works are
in Washington, D.C. to attend the IMF's meetings, Oral reminded. ''The 2000
budget is very important for Turkey. It will be a bit difficult, but it is
a serious step to determine Turkey's long-term financial balances,'' Sumer
said. The Minister refrained from giving a figure for the size of the
budget but stated that ''all resources would be used in the most
rationalist way''. Responding to the criticisms, Oral said he didn't agree
that Izmit did not get a share from the budget and stressed that he knew
Izmir's problems well and the investments it needs. ''As a regional deputy,
I am sensitive towards Izmir's issues. Izmir will be represented better in
the new budget,'' Oral said. Turkey is going through a hard time following
the devastating earthquake which hit Turkey's Marmara region on August 17
and the government is working on a additional budget draft law to meet the
damage caused by the quake. ''Of course, there will be a tax. In order to
pay your expenses, you have to have an income. Otherwise, there will be
deficit financing or borrowing. This matter will be discussed by the
government after the recess period ends. ''The government will discuss the
additional budget draft law after the recess period ends. The disaster's
financial cost should be revealed in order to meet the damage. Turkey
received foreign resources after the disaster. Most of these resources are
credits. We will evaluate all alternatives,'' Oral explained.
[30] PRIME MINISTRY CRISIS MANAGEMENT CENTER ANNOUNCES DEATH TOLL AS 15,802
[31] ANKARA, Sept 28 (A.A) - The Prime Ministry Crisis Management Center
announced death toll as 15,802 as of 11:30 local time on Tuesday in the
wake of the 7.4-magnitude earthquake which devastated Marmara Region on
August 17. A total of 43,872 people were injured in the quake. Officials at
the Prime Ministry Crisis Management Center told the A.A correspondent that
a total of 112,445 tents have been distributed in the disaster area so far.
Works to haul away rubble of 2,717 collapsed buildings were finalized.
There are 8,777 collapsed buildings to be removed while 8,730 others which
were seriously damaged in the quake, will be demolished in coming days. A
total of 66,441 dwellings and 10,901 business places were seriously damaged,
and a total of 80,160 dwellings and 9,712 business places were slightly
damaged while moderate damage were determined in a total of 67,242
dwellings and 9,927 business places. Construction of prefabricated houses
is continuing in the disaster zone. Meanwhile, a total of 58 trillion 829
billion 709 million Turkish Liras have been collected in the bank account
opened at the Ziraat Bank as of September 27, 1999.
A.A
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