Yakis: President Denktas Has Been Fulfilling His Duty Successfully

DUZCE - Foreign Minister Yasar Yakis said on Sunday, ''President Rauf Denktas of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has been fulfilling his duty successfully.''
Responding a question about statements of Justice and Development Party (AK Party) leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan about President Denktas, Yakis said, ''I do not know how Mr. Erdogan made this statement. However, I want to say that Erdogan has been paying attention. Erdogan does not assume any attitude that will weaken President Denktas' power of bargaining. I think his statement was misunderstood.''
''During the negotiations in Cyprus, President Denktas has undertaken the mission of chief negotiator. President Denktas has been fulfilling his duty successfully. The Republic of Turkey has been supporting him. President Denktas has been trying to do his best to protect rights of his people. As you know, bilateral negotiations have been continuing. Besides, negotiations have signaled that a third Annan Plan might appear,'' he said.
When asked when Turkey's position toward a possible war between the United States and Iraq would become clear, Yakis said, ''it is actually clear. We are in favor of peaceful scenarios instead of war scenarios between the United States and Iraq. If the United States decides to launch a military operation despite everything, then we will give priority to national interest of Turkey.''
Responding a question about involvement of NATO, Yakis said, ''if NATO is involved in the issue, this can lead both positive and negative consequences. NATO has some certain rules.''
Recalling that United Nations weapon inspectors would submit their report on Monday, Yakis added, ''if any violation is mentioned in the report, this would be a cause of military intervention.''