ANTALYA - Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said on Thursday that practices, which have been envisaged in the past two years for the military exercises in Eastern Mediterranean, would also continue this year.
Gul replied to questions of reporters after his meeting with Greek Foreign Minister George Papandreou.
Gul said the two countries reached an understanding for the military exercises.
Stating that Turkey participated in Barboros and Toros, and Greece participated in Nikiforos and Toksodis military exercises in Eastern Mediterranean every year, Gul said an understanding had been reached between the two countries in 2001-2002 not to perform Toksodis and Barboros military exercises. Gul stated that those military exercises would not take place also this year, noting that they considered this a sign of positive development in relations between the two countries.
Gul said many issues between Turkey and Greece were reviewed during his meeting with Papandreou, stating that his scheduled visit to Athens on October 21 was important. Gul also said he exchanged views with Papandreou about his scheduled visit.
Replying to a question, Gul said he would visit Olympics installations during his visit to Athens, stating that the two countries may have cooperation in many areas including security.
Papandreou in his part said the two countries reached an agreement to cancel Toksodis and Barboros military exercises in 2003, and not to participate in Toros and Nikiforos military exercises.
Stating that 2004 would be an important year for Olympics, Papandreou said they wanted Turkey to participate in this special incident.
(AY) 09.10.2003