Turkey Highlights Conditions for Backing War against Iraq

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Saturday, January 18, 2003

Turkey Highlights Conditions for Backing War against Iraq

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

Turkish President's Foreign Affairs Adviser Tacam Ildem said on Friday that Turkey's main conditions for backing a war against Iraq were international legitimacy and coordination, the Anatolian News Agency reported.

Ildem made the remarks after a critical meeting which was chaired by President Ahmed Necdet Sezer, and attended by Prime Minister Abdullah Gul and top army leaders.

Ildem said "even if the condition of international legitimacy is met, Turkey's contributions will be limited, considering its rooted, historical relations with Iraq."

"Today we have reviewed the developments regarding Iraq and have once more noted that the Iraqi administration has big responsibility in the full implementation of Resolution No. 1441 of the UN Security Council," he added

The president's advisor stressed that "Iraq's cooperation, in a manner proving that mass destruction arms are removed, is of prime importance."

He also noted that "peaceful methods have not been fully exhausted yet and all relevant parties must give a chance to peace. Turkey will continue its efforts for this purpose."

"Coordination means a broad coalition. The United States and Turkey have a broad cooperation in many fields benefiting both sides. We have the will to further this strategic cooperation," Ildem said.

Referring to the site survey of US experts in Turkey, Ildem said "Turkey has allowed US to carry out inspections in ports and bases. However, some demands of the US requires a parliamentary decision." "It is difficult for Turkey to take a decision pending a US decision and the absence of a second UN Security Council resolution on the issue," he said.

The top adviser ruled out the possibility that Turkey calls on Iraqi President Saddam Hussein to accept exile.

Questions?Comments? Click here

US Offers Turkey up to US$ 15bn in Swap for War Support

Turkey Allows US Site Survey of Bases for Iraqi War

Jiang, Bush Talk over Phone on DPRK Nuclear Issue ( 9 Messages)

China Indignant over PM Koizumi's Shrine Visit ( 7 Messages)

Thousands Protest in Los Angeles against US War against Iraq ( 2 Messages)

China's Vehicle Output Ranks World Fifth ( 2 Messages)

Reflector Installed on 'Shenzhou IV', Measurement Accuracy Greatly Raised ( 2 Messages)