ISTANBUL - Turkish Transportation Minister Binali Yildirim said that protection of the Mediterranean did not only mean protection of this sea as it had connections with other seas.
"All the countries should show the same sensitivity regarding this issue and necessary measures should be taken concurrently," Yildirim noted.
Yildirim held a press conference following the inaugural ceremony of the "38th Congress of the Mediterranean Science Commission" (CIESM) in Istanbul.
Replying to questions at the conference, Yildirim stated that global warming, pollution and excessive hunting would be the main issues to be discussed during the congress.
Commenting on the protection of the Mediterranean as well, Yildirim underscored that the Mediterranean had connections with Black Sea, Atlantic Ocean, as well as Red Sea and Indian Ocean through Suez Channel.
"The protection should be carried out altogether and all the countries should show the same sensitivity," said Yildirim.
Stressing that automatic control systems were used at Turkey's waterways and shores, moreover, air photographs were taken via satellites frequently, Yildirim said, "If same measures are taken by all countries, Mediterranean, Aegean and Black Sea could be protected in the best way".
Noting that providing the security of waterways and shores was the responsibility of the government, Yildirim said support of scientific research institutions and NGOs could also be helpful in creating a public opinion and sensitivity.
-PRINCE ALBERT II OF MONACO-
Meanwhile, Prince Albert II of Monaco who also serves as the President CIESM, underscored that countries which had straits should act quite carefully.
Indicating that Turkey was careful with this issue, Prince Albert said number of ships passing through the straits caused problems.
Prince Albert also stated that CIESM should prepare a report and the governments should work more efficiently on the issue.