Gul: There Is Not Any Military Operation In Northern Part Of Iraq

KAYSERI - Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said on Saturday, ``some newspapers claimed that five thousand Turkish soldiers launched an operation in northern Iraq. These press reports are totally baseless.``
Holding a news conference in central province of Kayseri, Gul said, ``some newspapers claimed that five thousand Turkish soldiers launched an operation in northern Iraq. These press reports are totally baseless. As you know, Turkey is very sensitive over the issue. There is not any military operation in northern part of Iraq.``
Recalling that Turkmens had been represented in the Iraqi governing council for the first time, Gul told reporters, ``there are eight Turkmen members in the council. We consider it a very positive development. We hope that everything will become normal in Iraq soon.``
Referring to problems of Turkish drivers in Iraq, Gul said, ``since the atmosphere of confidence could not be fully provided in Iraq yet, Turkish drivers have face some jeopardies in this country. This is also valid for drivers of the other countries. We experienced very saddening events. We have been holding continuous talks with Iraqi officials for safety of our drivers.``
(UK) 22.08.2004