Gul Does Not Give Assurances To Powell On Dispatch Of Soldiers

NEW YORK - Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul told U.S. State Secretary Colin Powell that in case U.N. Security Council issued a decision on dispatch of multinational force to Iraq, this would facilitate everything for Turkey and the Parliament.
Gul reminded Powell that Parliament would take the final decision on dispatch of soldiers, and stated that it was not possible to say anything on this issue beforehand.
A U.S. official told A.A correspondent that Powell briefed Gul on his meetings with other foreign ministers, and stressed that they would be pleased in case Turkey sends soldiers to Iraq.
The same official said Gul stated that Turkey closely covered the draft resolution that would be issued from the United Nations.
The official also said Gul gave information about point of view of Turkish people on dispatch of soldiers, and their meetings with Iraqi groups.
(AY) 25.09.2003