Sezer Urges Leaders In Islam Geography To Make A Sincere And Frank Appraisal Without Delay

ISTANBUL - Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer urged on Monday that it has become imperative that the leaders in this geography make sincere and frank appraisal without delay.
President Sezer addressed the opening of the Thirty-First Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.
In his speech, Sezer pointed out that Istanbul, the venue of our meeting, was a city that had placed its mark world civilization and that had left deep traces in the history of Islam. This city, which has embraced and merged people from different cultures and faiths throughout history, has ensured the free practice of faith in its mosques, churches and synagogues standing side by side for centuries, thus providing an environment of tolerance, he added.
``With such attributes, Istanbul is one of the living symbols of harmony and tolerance among civilizations`` Sezer said, adding that, ``since the inception of the OIC, we are witnessing sweeping changes in the world. Since the early 1970`s new dynamics have been set in motion in the international order.``
``We are passing through a period in which dynamics of change are being felt strongly. Uncertainties which blur our vision affect the lives and future of our nations profoundly. Whatever the level of its development and prosperity may be, no country can remain unaffected by the winds of change. While every region, country, society and individual benefit from positive changes at varying degrees, they nevertheless face the risks posed by a variety of negative developments,`` Sezer stated.
He said, ``the experiences that we have gained in the aftermath of the Second World War and particularly since the beginning of the 21st century, has demonstrated that global peace, prosperity, security and stability can not be achieved only through military means. It has become apparent that efforts to this end will bear fruit to the extend that democracy, the rule of law, fundamental rights and good governance are also taken into account.``
Sezer emphasized that, ``in this age in which trade and economic relations have been globalized, embracing human rights, the rule of law, gender equality and religious tolerance on a global scale is imperative for social development.``
``We observe that recently the attention of the international community has been directed towards the Islamic world. Discussions that have intensified over the question `what went wrong?` should not only be confined to scholars. We have to bear in mind that the answer to this question concerns the past, as well as the future of the Islamic world. Therefore, it has become imperative that the leaders in this geography, in other words, we, make sincere and frank appraisal without delay,`` he stressed.
Sezer said, ``the OIC which was founded by 25 countries has enlarged in terms of membership over two fold in the past thirty five years. The geographical boundaries of the OIC has expanded from the Balkans to Africa as well as from the Middle East to Central Asia. Applications continue to be made for full membership and observer status. Through its broad representation, the OIC has acquired the necessary capability of speaking with a common voice and spreading the messages of its members to the world. The time has come to seek and find the means to use this capability in an efficient and result-oriented manner.``
President Sezer said, ``like all international organizations, the OIC has arrived at a key turning point in its historical development process. Currently, the fundamental question which needs to be answered is how the OIC will be transformed into a significant and influential political force in the twenty-first century on the international stage.``
He said, ``at this point, I would like to stress that the strength and efficiency of an international organization comes from its members. International organizations with powerful members, capable of resolving problems, especially those in their own geography, and establishing comprehensive co-operation mechanisms to this end, and who can keep the pace with the international dynamics and universal values, naturally gain the ability to have their voices heard strongly on the international arena.
Sezer emphasized that, ``therefore, it is of vital importance that the members of the OIC demonstrate the clear will to accelerate the ongoing political, social, and economic reforms in order to catch up with the contemporary age.``
``Human resources is the basic element in social and economic development. Education is of vital importance in making the utmost of this resource. However, upgrading the level of education alone is not sufficient. Invoking a sense of confidence and hope for the future is also important. Here lies the fundamental role of democracy. Each individual acts with hope and confidence to the extend he or she has a say in their own future and that of their country. We should not forget that when judging their own societies in retrospect, generations to come will also take into account the role of today`s leaders on the reform and democratization,`` he stated.
Sezer said, ``In the Middle East, the region which lies at the very center of the OIC geography, we are witnessing a growing demand by the public for political, social and economic reform. Governments are taking certain steps to respond to these demands. Naturally, the pace on reform will be determined by the social conditions in each country. However, there is an obvious need to agree that reform is inevitable.``
PRESIDENT SEZER: ``WE DO NOT DISREGARD SECURITY CONCERNS OF ISRAEL``
President Sezer said, ``we do not disregard the security concerns of Israel. However, we see the use of excessive force as a big mistake that does not serve any end other than further escalating tensions and harming civilians.``
President Sezer said, ``we all know that the international community is willing to extend support to the reform process which the region requires. However, to bear fruit from steps encouraging democratic change and reform, it is necessary to adopt a realistic and case-by-case approach building on the domestic dynamics and the particularities of each country. I believe that without losing sight of our own values, we should collectively find the methods which will enable us not to lag behind and even help shape our world.``
``It is also a shared desire of my country that the Middle East goes through a transformation in line with contemporary and universal values, and that the people of this region attain a higher level of prosperity and development. In fact, although with differing degrees, this is an ongoing process, and it can neither be halted nor reversed. The issue before us is not whether democracy can be put in place in the Middle East, but how the aspirations for democracy can be addressed and how democracy can be materialized. The leaders of the region will leave a trace in the annals of their countries, to the extent that they take the lead for courageous and far-sighted initiatives. In this process self-criticism is an important aspect,`` he said.
President Sezer noted, ``on the other hand, third countries and international organizations are contributing with good faith to the development and democratization process of several countries. Even among the most democratic and developed countries, a multitude of mechanisms exist that help to safeguard and elevate living conditions. These most successful examples are the Council of Europe, the European Union and the Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe. On this occasion, I would like to note with pleasure the interest displayed by these organizations in the recent years to enter into dialogue with the countries in the OIC region, and the initiatives of the OIC in this regard. Having cooperated with these organizations for several years, we believe that, despite certain difficulties, this is a useful process.``
``At this point I would like to make a call for the establishment of dialogue and cooperation on the basis of genuine partnership between the countries in the OIC geography and the West, both at bilateral and institutional levels. I believe that political will to be demonstrated in this direction will pave the way for the Organization of the Islamic Conference to earn its rightful place on the international stage,`` he said.
President Sezer, emphasized, ``in order for the ownership of projects concerning reform, modernization and democratization to be claimed by the countries in the region, and to ensure that the hand extended by the international community for assistance bears fruit, it is important that concrete steps are taken for a just and lasting settlement of the conflicts in the Middle East region. The Arab-Israeli dispute lies at the forefront of these conflicts and the question of Palestine in its center.``
``I would like to reaffirm Turkey`s solidarity with the Palestinian people at this very difficult time. As a result of the continuing occupation in the territories of Palestine, and excessive use of force as well as destruction that have claimed the lives of many Palestinians, the conflict has escalated to a dangerous level. This situation seriously impacts efforts aimed at establishing security and stability in the region,`` he said.
Noting that Turkey did not disregard the security concerns of Israel, President Sezer said, ``however, we see the use of excessive force as a big mistake that does not serve any end other than further escalating tensions and harming civilians.``
``The ongoing negative developments in the region displays how important it is for the leaders on both sides to heed the calls of the international community. The future of Israeli and the Palestinian peoples are interlinked. A better future in the region can be built only through wisdom and reconciliation by the two peoples, rather than building walls and physical barriers. Policies that ignore international law and the calls of the international community are doomed to failure,`` he said.
President Sezer noted, ``it is evident that a viable peace agreement is the only way to provide a safe future for both parties. And this can be achieved through the vision of ``two States: Israel and Palestine, living side by side within secure and recognized borders`` in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. In this vein, we believe that the ground laid by the Road Map should be effectively utilized.``
``In order to achieve progress in the implementation of the Road Map, high-level engagement of the international community is necessary. The ongoing contacts with the members of the Quartet by the OIC Ministerial Delegation, in which Turkey is also represented, demonstrate the commitment of the international community to a just and lasting settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Likewise, the confirmation at the Arab League Summit of the validity of the Arab Peace Plan is important. I would like to reiterate that Turkey stands ready to fulfil any responsibility that falls on its shoulders for the resolution of the conflict,`` President Sezer added.
PRESIDENT SEZER: ``ONGOING VIOLENCE AND INSTABILITY IN IRAQ REMAINS A CAUSE OF CONCERN FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY``
President Sezer said, ``the ongoing violence and instability also remains a cause of concern for the international community.``
President Sezer said, ``in our neighbor Iraq, the ongoing violence and instability also remains a cause of concern for the international community. We grieve for the agony and the suffering that the Iraq people endure.``
President Sezer noted, ``as for the political transition process in Iraq, a new stage is in the making. Recently, the members of Iraq`s new interim government were appointed. I wish them success. Following the transfer of sovereignty on June 30, the people of Iraq will continue to confront the challenging task of building their political future. The success of the period ahead lies in drawing the necessary lessons from past experiences. As acknowledged by the international community, the United Nations is best equipped to assume a key role in strengthening the basis of legitimacy of the political transition process and in the creation of democratic structures in Iraq. I call upon the Iraqi interim government and all segments in Iraq to pursue a close dialogue with the United Nations and to benefit from their advise.``
``In the long and arduous period ahead, what the Iraqis need most is to achieve a broad consensus among themselves. Only the Iraqis themselves can find lasting solutions to the problems of Iraq. In the end, the key to building a stable and prosperous Iraq which is at peace with itself and with its neighbors, is only in the hands of the Iraqi people. I call on them to transcend ethnic and sectarian considerations and unite their forces,`` President Sezer added.
PRESIDENT SEZER: ``FURTHER SUFFERING OF TURKISH CYPRIOT PEOPLE WILL BE TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE``
President Sezer said, ``following the referenda on April 24, a new situation has emerged in Cyprus. In light of this fact, which is also acknowledged by the international community, the Turkish Cypriot people is willing to integrate with the rest of the world.``
President Sezer stressed, ``further suffering of the Turkish Cypriot people, due to a situation in which they bear no responsibility, would be totally unacceptable. In fact, in his report of May 28, presented to the Security Council, the secretary-general of the United Nations has called upon the members of the United Nations to eliminate all restrictions and embargoes on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Thus, the claim that United Nations resolutions constitute an obstacle in establishing relations with the Turkish Cypriots has no relevance.``
``I am confident that the Islamic world will not lag behind the international community, and will extend its hand of friendship and assistance to its Muslim Turkish Cypriot brothers,`` President Sezer added.
PRESIDENT SEZER: ``CONCRETE STEPS HAVE NOT BEEN TAKEN FOR RESOLUTION OF UPPER KARABAKH DISPUTE``
President Sezer said, ``we note with regret that concrete steps have not been taken for the resolution of the Upper Karabakh dispute.``
President Sezer referred to the issues of Upper Karabakh, Jammu and Kashmir and Afghanistan.
-UPPER KARABAKH-
President Sezer said, ``we note with regret that concrete steps have not been taken for the resolution of the Upper Karabakh dispute, which constitutes an obstacle for the creation of an environment of cooperation. Turkey has already declared that if an agreement emerges on confidence building measures aimed at facilitation a peaceful resolution, it will contribute to such an initiative.``
``We believe that confidence-building measures will contribute in expediting the resolution of the conflict, and thereby crating new opportunities and strengthening the environment of cooperation for the countries of the region and the international community,`` he stressed.
-JAMMU AND KASHMIR-
Referring to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, President Sezer said, ``the Jammu and Kashmir issue continues to be a source of serious concerns since 1947. This issue has inflicted suffering to the people of the region and has been a source of tension in the relations between India and Pakistan. We support the settlement of this issue on the basis of international legitimacy and dialogue. In this vein, recent mutual openings made between Pakistan and India, and the initiation of a dialogue process has risen hopes for a settlement. The settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir issue will contribute significantly to the strengthening of peace and stability in the region.``
-AFGHANISTAN-
President Sezer stressed, ``despite all the difficulties, we are pleased to observe that the Bonn Agreement is being implemented in Afghanistan. The establishment of peace, security and stability in Afghanistan is important not only for the Afghan people, but also for the stability of the entire region.``
``We strongly hope that Afghanistan will accomplish the reconstruction process swiftly and advance on the path of democracy and development as a country free from terrorism, violence and radicalism, and that the brotherly Afghan people will attain prosperity and tranquility which they long for many years,`` he said.
President Sezer added, ``the adoption of a new constitution is an important milestone in establishing stability and a new democratic political order in this country. Following the September elections, a new phase will start in Afghanistan. In the ongoing difficult process, Afghanistan needs the strong support of the international community. Turkey will continue to extend its support to Afghanistan, a country that we have traditional ties of friendship.``
SEZER THANKS FOR SUPPORT DISPLAYED TOWARD SITUATION OF TURKISH MUSLIM MINORITY IN WESTERN THRACE
Sezer said, ``I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the member states of the OIC for the interest and support they have displayed towards the situation of the Turkish Muslim minority in Western Thrace. It is regrettable that the Turkýsh Muslim minority in Western Thrace is still unable to enjoy all basic individual and minority rights which are guaranteed by bilateral and multilateral agreements, to the full extend. The close interest and support of the OIC for the recognition of the basic minority rights of the Turkish Muslim minority in Western Thrace is of great importance.``
-COMCEC MEETING-
President Sezer also stressed that, ``I would also like touch upon the work of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial cooperation of the OIC, COMCEC, which constitutes an important forum in developing economic and commercial cooperation among our countries.``
``The Framework Agreement for the Trade Preferential System Among the Member Countries of the OIC, which has come into force last year, has an important place in the regional trade arrangements which are expanding in parallel to globalization. The First Meeting of the Trade Negotiating Committee in the framework of the said Agreement was successfully held at the beginning of April in Antalya. The second meeting of the Trade Negotiating Committee is planned to be held in September in Turkey,`` he noted.
Sezer stated that ``the success of the first meeting is encouraging for future endeavors. On this occasion, I would like to invite the Member countries, who have not yet done so, to sign and ratify the Framework Agreement and actively participate in the trade negotiations.``
``As you all know, we will celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the COMCEC this year. A special meeting of Ministers of Economy and Trade will also be organized on the sidelines of the 20th session of COMCEC, to be held between 23 and 27 November 2004 in Istanbul. Thus, we will have the opportunity to exchange views on economic and commercial cooperation and to develop new perspectives for our future work. In order to attain our goals, I would like to reiterate our expectation of high level participation of Member States in the COMCEC and in the Special Ministerial Meeting of Economy and Trade,`` Sezer pointed out.
President Sezer said, ``with these thoughts in the mind, I would like to welcome all the participants once again and wish that your work will yield significant results in our quest for peace and prosperity.``

(AY-AÖ) 14.06.2004