Gul Visits Turkish Consulate In Jerusalem

JERUSALEM (AA) - Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said, ''now it's time to contribute to peace in the Middle East. To this end, my visit to the region is important.''
     Gul visited the Turkish Consulate in Jerusalem on Monday.
     Speaking to reporters, Gul said, ''there is a new atmosphere in the region and this new atmosphere is important. There has not been such a positive atmosphere for years in the region and it is necessary to utilize it in the best way.''
     Gul stressed, ''Turkey has good relations and history that has roots deep in history both with Israel and Palestine.''
     ''I am sure Turkey will contribute to peace. We are here to display this contribution,'' he said.
     When asked how Turkey would contribute to peace, Gul said, ''Turkey is not seeking a prestige. Turkey wants the bloodshed to stop.''
     ''Not only Turkey but also the whole international community want to benefit from the positive atmosphere in the region. Turkey is the leading country among these, because it has good relations with both parties. We want Lebanon and Syria to be part of peace process. This process should be comprehensive,'' Gul said.
     Gul also visited the Turkish Culture Center in west of Jerusalem.
     (GC-MS)
2005-01-03