ANKARA - Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said on Thursday that there is no difference of opinion between Turkey and the European Union on the subject of Customs Union Additional Protocol. ''The problem arose due to the improper translation of diplomatic terms and words in the media.''
Minister Gul held a press conference with the visiting Foreign Minister of Congo Rodolphe Adada.
Asked by a journalist if there is a difference of opinion between Turkey and the EU on whether the Turkish sea and airports would be included in the Customs Union Additional Protocol or not, Gul replied that there is no such disagreement. ''If one looks at the statements issued by EU officials, the absence of a disagreement would be clearly understood.''
In response to a question if there is any connection between U.S. demands to utilize the Incirlik air base and the possibility of a new resolution at the U.S. Congress on the so-called Armenian genocide, Gul answered that these topics have no direct relationship. ''I have elaborated on Incirlik in the recent past. Certain demands for cooperation do exist. Yet these are not well portrayed in the media. We are currently thinking on this topic and will evaluate the matter. The Armenian issue is a totally separate issue. This is not the way allies discuss issues. The topic of Armenians is known very well by former U.S. governments and that of President Bush. We are very hopeful that when the right time arrives the American administration will demonstrate the essential sensitivity. Therefore, it would be incorrect to say that such topics are a matter of bargaining. Our government is working carefully on certain technical subjects and the issue will come to a conclusion soon.''
Meanwhile, Gul expressed happiness over seeing the Foreign Minister of Congo Adada in Ankara.
Gul stressed that Adada and he discussed possible ways to develop trade between the two countries. ''The agreement on economic and technical cooperation between Turkey and Congo has been ratified at the Turkish parliament. The Turkish Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA) is very active in Africa. TIKA will soon open an office in western Africa.''
Minister Adada indicated that Turkey is a big and very important country for Congo. ''Businessmen and businesswomen in both countries must explore ways for mutual investments. Spreading peace and democracy in the African continent is quiet important for Congo. Our government is doing all it can to maintain and keep peace.''