ANKARA (AA) - Turkey has made a call to the Iraqi people to use their right to vote in the upcoming election and take advantage of the possibility of a national compromise and carry the interests of the Iraqi nation to a level higher than group interests.
In a statement released by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Provisional Iraq Administration, Iraqi political leaders, coalition forces in Iraq, UN mission in Iraq and all international communities have been encouraged to be sensitive and careful in regard to the likelihood of deficiencies and disputes that may hamper the political process and hurt domestic peace.
The statement read that the change in the Iraqi regime two years ago was a turning point for Iraq and the Middle East. ''The January 30 elections are crucial for the future of Iraq. The elected parliament and government will manage the constitutional process that will shape Iraq's future.''
According to the ministry's statement, the elections provide an opportunity to open the door for Iraqi stability, preserve the territorial integrity and national union of Iraq, establishment of lasting peace in the region and creation of a democratic administration.
''We are aware of the problems associated with the realization of the elections under difficult circumstances and the potentiality of the boycott of the election by some segments of Iraq. Such problems must be resolved to attain peace and stability in Iraq,'' indicated the statement.
The statement further read that Turkey has made arrangements to help Iraqis living in Turkey to cast their vote for the Iraqi elections.
2005-01-28