KUWAIT - Turkish FM Ali Babacan said on Tuesday that they wish to see an Iraq which was free of problems and terrorism. He said that Turkey was ready to help Iraq in this regard.
Speaking at expanded meeting of Iraq`s neighboring countries in Kuwait, Babacan said that this was the third expanded neighboring countries meeting held at a time when Iraq was still experiencing difficult times.
He said that Turkey`s resolve in contributing Iraq in all its endeavours was firm and remained unchanged. Babacan said that it was important for the countries of Middle East to own their problems; discuss possible solutions among themselves and help their neighbors through peaceful and political means.
He said that political reconciliation continued to be the main solution for the ongoing problems in Iraq. He added that international community should focus its attention on the political accommodation efforts.
Babacan said that territorial integrity, national unity, peaceful political resolution of disputes and creation of democratic, pluralistic, strong, united Iraq, free of terrorist activity were the vital components of this acquis.
He added that Turkey attached importance to the preservation and strengthening of those legal priorities regarding Iraq.
He said, "we are indeed concerned about the situation in Basra. We expect, however, to see the rule of law prevail over chaos in Basra. We have faith in measures taken by the government and hope that the rule of law will be restored soon."
Babacan also called upon all relevant parties in Iraq to act with calm and restraint.
He said that Turkey had been offering training to the Iraqi officials, diplomats, security personnel and also fellowship programs to students. He added that Turkey had also been providing medical assistance and treatment to Iraqi patients in Turkish hospitals.
Babacan said that trade, economy and energy were other important components of bilateral relations with Iraq. He added that against a background of several difficulties, bilateral trade volume between Iraq and Turkey was above three billion USD last three years in a row.
He said that Turkish investments in Iraq exceeded four billion USD, and Turkey remained to be the main transportation corridor for manufactured goods going to Iraq.
Babacan said that Turkey would like the year 2008 to mark a boost in bilateral relations, adding that the most ample indication of this will was the invitation extended to the President of Iraq Jalal Talabani by Turkish President Abdullah Gul.
He said that after the visit of Talabani, it was underlined that PKK was a terrorist organization and a common threat.
(GC-ULG)