E.U. Constitution Draft Approved

TURKISH FOREIGN MINISTER GUL: 'A HISTORIC INCIDENT'
BRUSSELS - A compromise was reached in Intergovernmental Conference where draft European Union Constitution was discussed.
Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said it was a historical meeting.
Gul said, ''there had been a historic meeting on EU Constitution. Draft Constitution was approved. We have also conveyed our views and it has been a constitution in the way we approve of.''
Gul said, ''around 10 countries wanted references to be made to Christianity. We said this would not be right. There had not been references. The draft constitution met Turkey's expectations. Everybody conveyed their views.''
Gul is expected to return to Turkey on Sunday.
(AY) 19.06.2004