Turkish Foreign Minister Gul Speaks Powell By Phone About Clashes In Tal Afar

RIGA - Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul spoke U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell by phone on Friday about clashes in Tal Afar.
It was reported that Gul stated that Turkey monitored the developments in Tal Afar from the very beginning. Gul said the change in essential character of the incidents in such a way caused serious concerns both in Turkish people and official authorities.
Gul in strong expressions stressed that Turkey expected its sensitivities to be taken into consideration, and called on necessary measures in this respect to be taken soon. Gul said Turkey expected the United States to make a step on this issue soon.
Powell in reply told Gul that he would like to assure Gul that they would take into consideration Turkey's concerns.
Stating that they were extremely sensitive not to harm civilian people, Powell said forces carrying out violence were those who they targeted. He said they were extremely sensitive not to damage civilian people.
(AY) 10.09.2004