ANKARA - Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said on Tuesday, ''we support Iraqi Turkmen's efforts to be represented effectively in future political structure of Iraq.''
Responding a question with notice submitted by Atilla Basoglu, a deputy of the Republican People's Party (CHP) from Adana province, Gul gave information about the government's efforts to support the Turkmen living in northern Iraq.
''Turkmen people forming the third biggest section after Arabs and Kurds, have been expending great efforts to undertake an active role in economic, social and cultural life during the rebuilding process of Iraq and to be represented effectively in future political structure of Iraq. Turkey supports these efforts of Turkmen people,'' he said.
Gul noted, ''we consider Turkmen people a bridge of friendship and cooperation between Turkey and Iraq. We have been supporting Turkmen people in education and vocational training programs. We have been carrying out a series of works to assist them in undertaking an effective role in Iraq. Also, we encourage our businessmen and investors to develop joint projects with Turkmens in Iraq.''
''Turkey has undertaken restoration of Turkmen schools, health facilities and cultural assets which were damaged in the war with the humanitarian aid to Iraq. We have been expending efforts to meet their main requirements. The Red Crescent has been continuing sending humanitarian aid to the region. Also, we support aid activities of Turkmeneli Cooperation and Culture Foundation for Turkmens,'' Gul added.
(UK-AÖ) 26.08.2003