Former Israeli Foreign Minister Peres In Ankara

ANKARA - Former Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres arrived in Ankara on Thursday upon the invitation of Republican People's Party (CHP).
Peres, who acts as the leader of opposition Labour Party, told reporters at Ankara's Esenboga Airport that Israel believed that Turkey could play an important role in Middle East peace process, Peres said Ankara could be a ''key actor'' in structuring of new Middle East.
Pointing out that Turkey was an example country for the region as a modern and Moslem country, Peres said Turkey could bring peace and hope to the region.
Peres underlined importance of Turkey's accession to the European Union (EU), and noted that the EU could play a more active role in the Middle East process after Turkey's full membership.
Peres said they closely covered economic development and balanced policies of Turkey, noting that they were pleased over its Middle East policy.
When asked about Turkey's undertaking a facilitating role between Israel and Syria, Peres said peace should be provided openly, not through secret talks.
(AY-AÖ) 12.02.2004