MILAN - Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said late on Friday that if Turkey decided to send soldiers to Iraq, it would be for the peace and happiness of Iraqi people.
Erdogan attended a meal with businessmen, bank officials and administrators of the European Union (EU) member countries who participated in Ambrosetti Forum at Villa D'este Hotel near Como lake.
Erdogan, who sat beside former Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres during the meal, then replied to questions of reporters.
Noting that Peres considered well the developments in Turkey, Erdogan said, ''they admired Turkey's efforts. And they say that Turkey can have a determining role in Middle East.''
Erdogan said that they discussed Iraq issue and other developments in Middle East with Peres during the meal.
Erdogan said that Peres thought that Turkish soldiers would be more successful in settlement of peace in Iraq.
Erdogan said that if Turkey took such a decision, it would go to Iraq for peace and happiness of Iraqi people.
Erdogan said that the current atmosphere was not the same with the past. He added that Turkey had the strength and capability to eliminate the problems in the region in harmony with Iraqi people.
Upon a question, Erdogan said that he would explain Turkey's view on modern world in the meeting to be held on Saturday and he would bring onto agenda not only economic issues but also all other issues.
(GC-BRC) 06.09.2003