ANKARA - U.S. Senate International Affairs Committee Chairman Richard Lugar said on Wednesday that there was not an expectation in Washington regarded with Turkey's sending of soldiers to Iraq, stating that Turkey's participation would help installation of stability in Iraq.
Lugar, who spoke to journalists following his 45-minute meeting with Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, pointed out that Turkey gave an ''excellent reaction'' by deciding to send a search and rescue team pertaining to the attack to the U.N. building in Baghdad.
Lugar said this decision showed Turkey's sensitivity on humanitarian aid.
Replying a question, Lugar said Washington did not have any expectation regarded with Turkey's sending of soldiers to Iraq, and pointed out that Parliament would probably convene in September and would take a decision for the benefit of Turkey.
Lugar said he believed that Turkey and the United States were two strong partners, noting that both countries would benefit from installation of stability in Iraq and democratization of this country.
Stating that they were hopeful for Turkey's participation, yet pointed that the decision would be taken in Ankara.
When asked whether or not Turkish soldiers would help installation of stability in Iraq, Lugar said he believed that participation of Turkey would help installation of stability in Iraq.
A ten-people Turkish civilian defense team is expected to go to Baghdad following the attack to U.N. building in Baghdad.
The team will participate in activities to clean up the rubble and search and rescue activities.
(AY-AÖ) 20.08.2003