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TURKISH PREMIER HOLDS NEWS CONFERENCE AT END OF NATO SUMMIT
TRT 2 television, Ankara
29 Jun 04
Text of news conference by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan
with unidentified correspondents in Istanbul at the conclusion of the
NATO summit, broadcast live by Turkish TRT 2 television on 29 June
(Erdogan) Our beautiful Istanbul is experiencing the joy of
successfully hosting a historic summit. The heads of state and
government of 26 NATO member countries and 48 countries in the
Euro-Atlantic region convened in Istanbul to participate in the NATO
summit during the last two days. Before going into the details of the
meetings held within this framework, I would like to state that our
country, which is hosting a NATO summit for the first time in the
52-year history of its membership in the alliance, has successfully
fulfilled this difficult task with great success. This is not our
opinion alone, but that of the heads of state and government who
attended the summit and who have conveyed their views to us. The
success I am talking about is not only an organizational one. It is at
the same time based on the light Istanbul, which is the point where
many civilizations converge, has cast on the future of NATO that aims
to be a global bridge of stability. In other words, it was an
expression of unification with Istanbul's natural beauties. In the
process that started on Saturday (26 June) especially our nation, our
people, have exhibited a very different hospitality. This hospitality
may have caused them to put up with various difficulties, but the
prestige this hospitality has given to our country and our nation
cannot be expressed in words. This has bestowed a great prestige on
us. This is the reason why, I take the opportunity at this news
conference to once again apologize on behalf of my government and
continue with the second part of my news conference. We have undergone
through a joint trial. At the same time, various nongovernmental
organizations have, within the framework of a democratic
understanding, exercised their right to the freedom of expression.
Naturally, all the participants and international observers have noted
that the hand of partnership the expanding NATO has extended to the
east and the south has gained a more special meaning and depth in
Istanbul. This was expressed by all the friendly countries that
arrived here. This summit meeting has once again clearly shown that
Turkey - which represents a successful synthesis between the cultures
of Islam and democracy, between traditionalism and modernity, and
between history and the future - on the basis of these
characteristics, constitutes a powerful light of hope for the dialogue
between cultures and civilizations.
Dear media members, the Istanbul summit marks a critical point in the
NATO transformation process. The decisions made here will be a
historic turning point for the future and for world peace and
stability. This can clearly be observed even when the results of the
Istanbul summit are viewed from the viewpoint of only headlines. It is
possible to collect the results of this summit under eight major
headlines. The decisions to expand the NATO operation in Afghanistan -
which was the first operation that was launched outside the scope of
the alliance in its real sense - outside of Kabul, in line with the
request of the central government, and to support the elections that
are of key importance in this country's political transition were
reaffirmed in this summit.
In the light of the successful results achieved in Bosnia and
Hercegovina, a decision was adopted to end the NATO operation at the
end of the year and to support the EU that will undertake a new
operation in this country.
In the fight against terrorism, a new package of measures such as
strengthening the sharing of intelligence that involves various
measures and developing capabilities to prevent possible nuclear and
biological attacks was adopted during this summit. A decision was also
made to secure the capabilities needed to struggle against new threats
and to begin activities aimed at eliminating logistic and financial
difficulties that prevent the participation of member countries in
NATO operations.
At the summit it was also stressed that the inclusion of seven new
members will not be the last expansion wave and that the policy of an
open door will be actively maintained. A decision was also reached to
grant a special priority to the countries in the Caucasus and Central
Asia within NATO's partnership relations. The Istanbul Cooperation
Initiative, which will be implemented in full cooperation and
consultation with the regional countries, was launched in line with
the approaches presented at the G-8 meeting and the US-European
summits. Moreover, in parallel to the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative,
a decision was also reached to develop the existing Mediterranean
dialogue while preserving its special characteristics.
In line with UN Security Council resolution no 1546 and based on the
request of the Iraqi transitional government, a decision was made for
NATO to assume a role in training the Iraqi security forces and for
launching internal activities in connection with additional steps that
might be taken alongside the training.
When we view all these decisions, we can clearly observed that the
NATO transformation process based on new capabilities, new partnership
relations, and operations gained a new horizon and a new impetus in
Istanbul. This visionary characteristic of the Istanbul summit was
actually put forth in the Istanbul Declaration under the headline 'our
security in the new era' that was adopted during the summit. In
addition to its content, the fact that such a visionary declaration
was issued for the first time since the 1990 London summit held soon
after the end of the Cold War clearly confirms the importance of the
Istanbul summit.
Another important document that was adopted during the summit was the
joint communique issued on the issue of Iraq. The document in
question, which is important from the viewpoint of demonstrating the
unity of views on Iraq of the allies that went through a difficult
time during the Iraq crisis, contains noteworthy observations on the
general situation in Iraq and the principles that have to be abided
by. Within this framework, the fact that the terrorist activities
springing from Iraq constitute a threat to the security of
neighbouring countries and the region was observed and clearly
stressed constitutes an important and positive development from our
point of view.
During the summit, in addition to the meetings held among the various
allies, a meeting was held with the Ukrainian president at the
NATO-Ukrainian Committee. Moreover, the NATO-Russian Council meeting
at the foreign ministerial level was also held. Furthermore, the
Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC), which has 46 members, met at
the level of heads of state and government. Mr Karzai, the president
of Afghanistan, participated in the meeting in question as well. The
participation in the EAPC meeting of the heads of state of Bosnia and
Hercegovina and Serbia and Montenegro as observers through our
initiatives also constituted a first. Especially, the meeting held
with Mr Karzai was of historic value. This meeting was beneficial and
constructive from the viewpoint of showing the commitment of the
Euro-Atlantic community to the future of Afghanistan. This fact was
clearly demonstrated both during the NATO meetings and in the
bilateral meetings we held.
>From the viewpoint of our EU membership, this summit has also
contributed to establishing a positive approach on the part of the EU
member countries towards Turkey.
I would also like to refer to the tripartite meeting Mr Gul, our
foreign minister and deputy prime minister, held with Armenian Foreign
Minister Oskanyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Mammadyarov. I hope
that the meetings the three ministers decided to hold in the future as
well will contribute to the solution of the regional conflict, which
seems to be frozen, and to regional peace.
We also found the opportunity to hold a series of bilateral meetings
during this summit. I found the opportunity to review our bilateral
relations as well as our relations with the EU in meetings I held with
Mr Berlusconi, my friend the Italian prime minister; with Mr Zapatero,
the new Spanish prime minister; and with Mr Rop, the Slovenian prime
minister. I also held detailed meetings with Mr Aliyev, the
Azerbaijani president; Mr Nazarbayev, the Kazakh president; and Mr
Akayev, the Kyrgyz president. Prior to the gala dinner last night, I
met with French President Chirac and German Chancellor Schroeder and
conducted a brief exchange of views.
I held a detailed meeting with Mr Karzai a while ago. I held various
contacts with all the heads of state and government during the NATO
meetings and the working luncheons. As a result, I can say with a
clear conscience that the Istanbul summit was a timely, successful and
beneficial meeting from the viewpoint of giving a direction to the
future of NATO and of introducing and accentuating the importance of
our country.
I wish a safe journey to the heads of state and government who have
returned to their countries, the foreign and defence ministers,
members of the various delegations and the foreign media members. No
doubt, we wish to see them all once again in our country as soon as
possible accompanied by their families and their loved ones. They have
bid us farewell saying that they wish to return to our country not on
an official capacity alone but on an unofficial one as well. Finally,
I extend my extensive thanks on behalf of my government, myself, and
my nation to all those who have worked to make this historic summit a
success and especially to our foreign minister, our state minister
Atalay, the other pertinent ministers such as the defence and interior
ministers, Ambassador Umur Apaydin who is the chairman of the
organizing committee, all our friends who have taken part in the
organization of this summit, the Foreign Ministry community, all the
security personnel, our security organization, and members of the
Turkish Armed Forces who were tasked in this summit.
As I stated in the beginning of my address, I especially thank my
citizens of Istanbul and Ankara who experienced a different kind of
difficulty and who had a great share in the success of this summit and
you, my dear media members, who reported on the summit. Your work was
tiring and intensive. I believe that your work has contributed
abundantly to the future prestige of our country. Thank you again for
this. If you have any questions then we can proceed to them.
(Correspondent) Naturally, no doubt, one of the most important items
on the summit agenda was Iraq. How does Turkey think it will support
the new administration in Iraq? NATO has called for the training of
Iraqi soldiers. Is Turkey considering to undertake this training in
Iraq or in Turkey? There was a transfer of administration,
sovereignty, in Iraq. Do you think that a serious change,
tranquillity, is possible only through a transfer of sovereignty while
US troops are still in Iraq? Thank you.
(Erdogan) I will begin by extending my thanks. At the moment, through
this withdrawal, including Bremer, duties are being transferred to the
administration there. The form, the how, and why will be determined
through mutual meetings. We will do all we can, we will extend all
the aid and support we can during these talks. At the moment, nothing
is clear on this issue.
(Correspondent) I have two questions that are interlinked. One is
about the red lines of Turkey. How were these red lines manifested in
the NATO summit? Secondly, as you have just mentioned, what do you
have to say about the behaviour of the police forces while certain
nongovernmental organizations were expressing their democratic
reaction? What do you have to say to the use of pepper spray and the
fact that many people including policemen and demonstrators, were
injured? I thank you.
(Erdogan) I thank you as well. First I will reply to your first
question. The answers to the red lines were not sought in these
meetings. What we sought in these meetings was how to establish a
democratic Iraq and how NATO can help in establishing a democratic
Iraq be it in the field of education or the establishment of the
security forces there. What kind of a role can NATO play? These issues
were discussed. The details of these issues will be discussed later
on. What kind of a role will Turkey play in this process? We will see
that within the plan. There is nothing concrete at the moment.
As for the your second question, while the nongovernmental
organization were exercising their democratic rights as they view
them, I believe that the police forces exercised their duties. It is
impossible to see the overturning of nine vehicles as an expression of
freedoms. Vehicles belonging to civilian citizens were overturned. It
is impossible to define the damage caused as an expression of
freedom. The police forces showed the necessary tolerance to the very
end. When deterrence was needed, the police did what it could in the
most suitable manner within the framework of the package of
measures. I believe that it would be beneficial to view this as the
achievement of our police force. This is what I think.
(Correspondent) The EU issue was discussed. Were you satisfied with
the speeches the European leaders delivered on the issue?
(Erdogan) In general, the leaders of the EU member countries are
approaching the issue from the viewpoint that Turkey has no problem
with regards to the negotiation process. I believe that after having
experienced the NATO summit in Istanbul, all the EU member countries
will change their views in a positive manner. The developments will be
more positive and will be speeded up from now on.
(Correspondent, in English) Mediamax news agency Armenia. Don't you
think that the absence of diplomatic relations between Armenia and
Turkey and the closed border hinder the development of NATO-Armenia
relations? Thank you.
(Erdogan) I thank you. In addition to the meeting your foreign
minister, who came from Armenia, held with Mr Gul, I also met with
him. As a matter of fact, I also arranged a meeting with Mr
Aliyev. They met there as well. Naturally, all this happened through
mutual sacrifice and mutual tolerance. This was what was needed. Mr,
Gul, our honourable foreign minister and deputy prime minister, has
initiated a process by bringing together the foreign ministers of
Azerbaijan and Armenia. We hope that this process will continue and
pick up speed and that we will reach a solution here as well based on
the concept of win-win. We saw the sides had a positive
approach. Hope, however, is not sufficient. What is sufficient is to
get results. At the moment we are in the phase of wishes. We see that
they are determined to achieve results. We are saying that one should
continue on this path.
(Correspondent) NATO adopted a decision on the training of the Iraqi
security forces. What are Turkey's views on the issue? Do you want to
send training forces there? The second question is this: Will Turkey
want to command ISAF in the new phase? I thank you.
(Erdogan) I replied to these questions a while ago. What kind of a
training will it be? This will be determined through talks to be held
later on. In other words, will the training be conducted there or
here? There is nothing clear at the moment. As for ISAF, if you are
asking about Afghanistan, Turkey will send (troops) to Afghanistan
later on. Probably in during the February-August period.
(Correspondent from the Parity Democrat Westminster, in English, with
superimposed translation into Turkish) At this Istanbul summit, there
were two women presidents, four women ministers for foreign affairs,
four ministers of defence and two women national security
advisers. Turkey has made remarkable progress in the last few years in
legislating equal rights for women. There is only one woman minister
among your 23-member cabinet. When you next reshuffle your government,
could you not emulate the prophet and appoint at least four
distinguished women as ministers, even if they are not your daughters?
(Erdogan, laughing) You seem to have carefully counted the number of
women ministers attending the summit. I was unable to do so. At
present, my cabinet includes one state minister. It is our hope that
this number will increase in future cabinets and in possible future
developments that could come about because of any changes. This is
what we wish. Turkey will hold future elections in a very different
way. I believe that distance will be covered in this regard with every
passing day.
(Correspondent) As you noted at the beginning of your statement, the
final communique referred to the fact that the terrorist activities in
the region affect the surrounding countries as well. This is a subject
that Turkey also attaches importance to - the presence of the
PKK/Kongra-Gel (Workers Party of Kurdistan/People's Congress of
Kurdistan) in north Iraq. Was any progress recorded on this subject
during bilateral or interdelegational talks?
(Erdogan) They know our sensitivities in this regard. We also stated
them. Both NATO member countries and EU countries concur on the
establishment of a joint struggle platform against terrorism. They say
that, together, we will do our utmost on this subject. Once they
pledge to do that, we do not have the right to say: But, you are not
doing so, you will not do so. Jointly, we have to take the steps with
regard to our future moves.
(Correspondent from Agence Europe in Brussels, in English, with
superimposed translation into Turkish) I would like to come back to
the question of EU candidacy. First, yesterday, French President
Jacques Chirac said that if the European Commission report states that
Turkey is not ready, the negotiations with Turkey may be postponed by
six months to a year. Second, (EU Commissioner for Enlargement)
Verheugen is stressing the issue of implementing the reforms. He is
insisting on implementing the reforms, not just enacting them. What is
the status on the question of implementation? What do you think about
these statements?
(Erdogan) Thank you. This process has two main headlines - adaptation
and implementation. We claim that we have concluded the adaptation
process, and we are continuing our work regarding implementation with
great care. It is also a fact, however, that not all the elements of
adaptation need to be fully implemented. Even full EU members have not
achieved this yet. A change of mentality is being brought about, and
in doing this, it is not easy to include the entire package into the
implementation process and to achieve this in the implementation
process. We are, however, engaged in efforts to realize this with
sincerity and great determination. I believe that these officers in
charge of enlargement, Mr, Verheugen in particular, also see this
reality from close up. I also believe that the report that will be
drafted on Turkey will be along these lines. As far as the report is
concerned, in truth, I am not expecting a negative report. I am
expecting this report to be positive, because the steps we took are
very serious ones. The steps we took pertaining to freedoms are
evident. The work we undertook in many other fields, be it in the
sphere of democratization, the freedom of enterprise, or the freedom
of organization, is also every clear. Those who until two-three years
ago were saying that such things cannot happen have seen that these
things did take place in Turkey. Our European friends also see this
clearly. It is our expectation that the report will be positive. I do
not believe that there will be any hitches in this regard. In the
final analysis, naturally, it is the drafters of the report who will
come up with a positive or negative outcome. We can merely express our
expectation along the lines of the work we conducted. This is a
process, and we are fulfilling our duty within this process.
(Unidentified correspondent) In your opinion, did the anti-NATO
demonstrations held yesterday play any role in the release of the
Turkish hostages in Iraq?
(Erdogan) Why do people take hostages? It is not possible to
comprehend this. It is impossible to understand those who take
hostage defenceless people who went to that country in order to make a
living. If you are faced with an armed action, you can take hostages
or you can do whatever the situation calls for. That is a different
matter. In truth, I still fail to understand or to explain why people
who share my religion take hostage persons who have gone thousands of
kilometres to make a living or who are working in construction
there. I am having difficulty here. There is definitely no such thing
in our religion. I cannot know in exchange for what the hostages were
released. At least, it brings us peace and happiness that the three
hostages and their families have been saved from such psychological
hardship. We never advocate such means. It is very wrong to adopt
these methods, which have no connection whatsoever with Islam.
(Correspondent from Dunya newspaper) Mr Prime Minister, the European
army will be stationed in Bosnia-Hercegovina. How will this affect the
situation of the Turkish unit? Will there be any demands on Turkey,
which is not a member of the EU? Second, were the relations with
Israel raised during your meeting with President Bush? Certain
newspapers are suggesting that you will make up with Israel. Can you
comment on this?
(Erdogan) As you know, NATO is not withdrawing from Bosnia-Hercegovina
completely. Our army will continue to be stationed there with one
battalion. As for the second question, this subject was not raised in
any of our meetings.
(Unidentified correspondent) As you know, the European Court of Human
Rights decided to reject the suit filed by two students who wear the
Islamic headdress, and justified Turkey in this regard. Can you
comment on this subject?
(Erdogan) If you please, let us not deviate from today's agenda.
(Unidentified correspondent) US President Bush's support for Turkey's
EU accession caused a somewhat negative effect in European countries,
especially in France. Can you give us an insight into the reports we
have received in this regard? Does Turkey harbour the concern that the
US support for Turkey's accession may actually backfire?
(Erdogan) Let me explain to you the facts, rather than what is
happening behind the scenes. Mr Bush merely expressed his opinion and
his goodwill. Otherwise, it is not as though Mr Bush or other US
representatives are about to cast their votes on this matter. Given
that they will not cast their votes, it should not be regarded as
abnormal for the leader of the most powerful country in the world to
express his conviction. This is an expression of an opinion. I believe
that no one should be disturbed by this. He will not cast a vote. He
merely expressed his view. There may be those who share this view, and
those who do not. We hope that no one will disagree with him, and
Turkey will begin the negotiation process with the EU.
(Unidentified correspondent) Certain measures were announced in the
NATO communique on the subject of counterterrorism. Two of them
consist of issues that Turkey had grievances about in the past -
namely, the sharing of intelligence and the increase of the capability
to respond more rapidly to individual requests coming from member
countries in the wake of terrorist attacks. Can you give us some
information on this subject? Did Turkey play a role in making these
decisions?
Second, a decision was adopted to develop relations with Central Asia
and the Caucasus. A liaison officer and a special representative will
be appointed. Will Turkey play a role in this regard? Were these
issues raised during your talks with Central Asian leaders? Was the
issue of oil in the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline discussed during your meeting
with Kazakhstan's Nazarbayev?
(Erdogan) I will give you a joint answer for your two questions. As
you know, we do not dwell on details. Our technical teams address
these issues. We draw the general framework. The activities between
the leaders mostly focus on this general framework. Therefore, we do
not go into such detail. The flow of intelligence and information will
naturally take place, and it continues to take place.
(Unidentified correspondent) Was the issue of opening the seminary in
Heybeliada raised during the contacts you held within the framework of
the NATO summit, especially with US officials? Another question: Did
you have the opportunity to hold a meeting with Greek Prime Minister
Kostas Karamanlis?
(Erdogan) The seminary in Heybeliada was discussed, and we said that
work is currently being conducted in Turkey on this subject. As you
know, the real source of this matter is the difficulty that the
seminary was closed in 1971 following a decision by the Constitutional
Court. The relevant institutions are working on this subject. We will
act in accordance with the outcome of this work, or we will seek other
solutions.
With regard to the second question, as always, we conducted our talks
with Mr Karamanlis in a positive manner. Greece does not have any
opposition to the EU's granting a negotiation date to Turkey. Greece
is very clear on this subject. As always, our close dialogue is
continuing, and we are determined to continue this close dialogue in
the future as well. My contacts with Mr Karamanlis and Foreign
Minister Abdullah Gul's contacts with his Greek counterpart are
continuing. Likewise, the contacts between our institutions are also
continuing. We are also determined to continue our efforts within the
framework of this line of goodwill.
(Correspondent from the Wall Street Journal, in English, with
superimposed translation into Turkish) Mr Prime Minister, French
President Chirac said that he does not want to see NATO training
forces inside Iraq, because they can be seen as the Crusaders in that
country. At the same time, he was against sending Rapid Response
Forces to Afghanistan because that would constitute too extensive a
presence for NATO in that country. As the prime minister of a Muslim
country within NATO, what is your opinion on the use of NATO as an
instrument in these countries?
(Erdogan) A decision has not been made yet on where this training will
take place. NATO, however, does not subscribe to a principle of not
conducting training in a Muslim-populated country. This has been done
in the past, and it is being done currently. For example, Turkey is a
country with a Muslim majority, and NATO continuously informs our army
about the developments in the world, as necessary. If NATO reaches
such a decision, the same can be done in other countries.
As it happens, it is very wrong for us to discuss matters like
crusades or crescents. We should stop this. We should extract
ourselves from that psychological structure and environment. We should
view our respondent as a human being, and value him as a person. I
believe that the most important trace to be left in people's minds
from the Istanbul summit will be the image of a summit in which the
human being was accorded value. We no longer want to see NATO as an
international pact involved in armament races. From now on, we want to
see NATO as an international pact that is capable of undertaking all
that must be done to spread peace and a pact that prepares the
necessary infrastructure to that end. From now on, NATO must be the
address for this. I stressed this subject both in the Youth Summit and
during the NATO sessions. I believe that in the future, NATO should
also assume such a function. If we rechannel to education the funds we
currently allocate to weapons, I believe that the problems encountered
now by the human race will be greatly reduced, and terrorism will lose
its infrastructure. If we take into account that there is a
cause-and-effect relationship in terrorism and that terrorism is an
effect, poverty can be seen as the primary cause. Therefore, I believe
that at this point there is great benefit in developed countries'
supporting the poor underdeveloped countries with the aim of
eliminating poverty. This would help in preventing the exploitation of
this factor and in taking this toy away from them. As it happens, when
we look for the region that is most afflicted by terrorism in Turkey,
we see that this is the underdeveloped area of the country. We see
that these are poverty-stricken regions that are vulnerable to
exploitation. This is where we paid the price. Let us not pay this
price again. We also want the world and the human race not to pay this
price any more.
(Unidentified correspondent) You mentioned in a sentence in your
statement that Turkey will send troops to Afghanistan between February
and August. Can you supply more details? Will this be within the
framework of SFOR (Stabilization Force in Bosnia-Hercegovina) (as
heard) Command? Will Turkey accept to reassume the command of SFOR and
increase its troops? Or, will Turkey send troops to regions outside
Kabul within the framework of (word indistinct)?
(Erdogan) As a member of NATO, we will send troops to NATO
Headquarters, as was the case in the past. That is all. There are no
details yet. There is a long time until February, and many things can
change until then.
That was the last question. Thank you very much. Again, I apologize to
you and through you, to my nation, for the difficulties they
suffered. Let everyone know that they have greatly contributed to the
prestige and image of my nation and country. Do not forget that the
Istanbul summit will be talked about not only now, but for months and
years to come. Thank you very much.
TRT 2 television, Ankara
29 Jun 04
Text of news conference by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan
with unidentified correspondents in Istanbul at the conclusion of the
NATO summit, broadcast live by Turkish TRT 2 television on 29 June
(Erdogan) Our beautiful Istanbul is experiencing the joy of
successfully hosting a historic summit. The heads of state and
government of 26 NATO member countries and 48 countries in the
Euro-Atlantic region convened in Istanbul to participate in the NATO
summit during the last two days. Before going into the details of the
meetings held within this framework, I would like to state that our
country, which is hosting a NATO summit for the first time in the
52-year history of its membership in the alliance, has successfully
fulfilled this difficult task with great success. This is not our
opinion alone, but that of the heads of state and government who
attended the summit and who have conveyed their views to us. The
success I am talking about is not only an organizational one. It is at
the same time based on the light Istanbul, which is the point where
many civilizations converge, has cast on the future of NATO that aims
to be a global bridge of stability. In other words, it was an
expression of unification with Istanbul's natural beauties. In the
process that started on Saturday (26 June) especially our nation, our
people, have exhibited a very different hospitality. This hospitality
may have caused them to put up with various difficulties, but the
prestige this hospitality has given to our country and our nation
cannot be expressed in words. This has bestowed a great prestige on
us. This is the reason why, I take the opportunity at this news
conference to once again apologize on behalf of my government and
continue with the second part of my news conference. We have undergone
through a joint trial. At the same time, various nongovernmental
organizations have, within the framework of a democratic
understanding, exercised their right to the freedom of expression.
Naturally, all the participants and international observers have noted
that the hand of partnership the expanding NATO has extended to the
east and the south has gained a more special meaning and depth in
Istanbul. This was expressed by all the friendly countries that
arrived here. This summit meeting has once again clearly shown that
Turkey - which represents a successful synthesis between the cultures
of Islam and democracy, between traditionalism and modernity, and
between history and the future - on the basis of these
characteristics, constitutes a powerful light of hope for the dialogue
between cultures and civilizations.
Dear media members, the Istanbul summit marks a critical point in the
NATO transformation process. The decisions made here will be a
historic turning point for the future and for world peace and
stability. This can clearly be observed even when the results of the
Istanbul summit are viewed from the viewpoint of only headlines. It is
possible to collect the results of this summit under eight major
headlines. The decisions to expand the NATO operation in Afghanistan -
which was the first operation that was launched outside the scope of
the alliance in its real sense - outside of Kabul, in line with the
request of the central government, and to support the elections that
are of key importance in this country's political transition were
reaffirmed in this summit.
In the light of the successful results achieved in Bosnia and
Hercegovina, a decision was adopted to end the NATO operation at the
end of the year and to support the EU that will undertake a new
operation in this country.
In the fight against terrorism, a new package of measures such as
strengthening the sharing of intelligence that involves various
measures and developing capabilities to prevent possible nuclear and
biological attacks was adopted during this summit. A decision was also
made to secure the capabilities needed to struggle against new threats
and to begin activities aimed at eliminating logistic and financial
difficulties that prevent the participation of member countries in
NATO operations.
At the summit it was also stressed that the inclusion of seven new
members will not be the last expansion wave and that the policy of an
open door will be actively maintained. A decision was also reached to
grant a special priority to the countries in the Caucasus and Central
Asia within NATO's partnership relations. The Istanbul Cooperation
Initiative, which will be implemented in full cooperation and
consultation with the regional countries, was launched in line with
the approaches presented at the G-8 meeting and the US-European
summits. Moreover, in parallel to the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative,
a decision was also reached to develop the existing Mediterranean
dialogue while preserving its special characteristics.
In line with UN Security Council resolution no 1546 and based on the
request of the Iraqi transitional government, a decision was made for
NATO to assume a role in training the Iraqi security forces and for
launching internal activities in connection with additional steps that
might be taken alongside the training.
When we view all these decisions, we can clearly observed that the
NATO transformation process based on new capabilities, new partnership
relations, and operations gained a new horizon and a new impetus in
Istanbul. This visionary characteristic of the Istanbul summit was
actually put forth in the Istanbul Declaration under the headline 'our
security in the new era' that was adopted during the summit. In
addition to its content, the fact that such a visionary declaration
was issued for the first time since the 1990 London summit held soon
after the end of the Cold War clearly confirms the importance of the
Istanbul summit.
Another important document that was adopted during the summit was the
joint communique issued on the issue of Iraq. The document in
question, which is important from the viewpoint of demonstrating the
unity of views on Iraq of the allies that went through a difficult
time during the Iraq crisis, contains noteworthy observations on the
general situation in Iraq and the principles that have to be abided
by. Within this framework, the fact that the terrorist activities
springing from Iraq constitute a threat to the security of
neighbouring countries and the region was observed and clearly
stressed constitutes an important and positive development from our
point of view.
During the summit, in addition to the meetings held among the various
allies, a meeting was held with the Ukrainian president at the
NATO-Ukrainian Committee. Moreover, the NATO-Russian Council meeting
at the foreign ministerial level was also held. Furthermore, the
Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC), which has 46 members, met at
the level of heads of state and government. Mr Karzai, the president
of Afghanistan, participated in the meeting in question as well. The
participation in the EAPC meeting of the heads of state of Bosnia and
Hercegovina and Serbia and Montenegro as observers through our
initiatives also constituted a first. Especially, the meeting held
with Mr Karzai was of historic value. This meeting was beneficial and
constructive from the viewpoint of showing the commitment of the
Euro-Atlantic community to the future of Afghanistan. This fact was
clearly demonstrated both during the NATO meetings and in the
bilateral meetings we held.
>From the viewpoint of our EU membership, this summit has also
contributed to establishing a positive approach on the part of the EU
member countries towards Turkey.
I would also like to refer to the tripartite meeting Mr Gul, our
foreign minister and deputy prime minister, held with Armenian Foreign
Minister Oskanyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Mammadyarov. I hope
that the meetings the three ministers decided to hold in the future as
well will contribute to the solution of the regional conflict, which
seems to be frozen, and to regional peace.
We also found the opportunity to hold a series of bilateral meetings
during this summit. I found the opportunity to review our bilateral
relations as well as our relations with the EU in meetings I held with
Mr Berlusconi, my friend the Italian prime minister; with Mr Zapatero,
the new Spanish prime minister; and with Mr Rop, the Slovenian prime
minister. I also held detailed meetings with Mr Aliyev, the
Azerbaijani president; Mr Nazarbayev, the Kazakh president; and Mr
Akayev, the Kyrgyz president. Prior to the gala dinner last night, I
met with French President Chirac and German Chancellor Schroeder and
conducted a brief exchange of views.
I held a detailed meeting with Mr Karzai a while ago. I held various
contacts with all the heads of state and government during the NATO
meetings and the working luncheons. As a result, I can say with a
clear conscience that the Istanbul summit was a timely, successful and
beneficial meeting from the viewpoint of giving a direction to the
future of NATO and of introducing and accentuating the importance of
our country.
I wish a safe journey to the heads of state and government who have
returned to their countries, the foreign and defence ministers,
members of the various delegations and the foreign media members. No
doubt, we wish to see them all once again in our country as soon as
possible accompanied by their families and their loved ones. They have
bid us farewell saying that they wish to return to our country not on
an official capacity alone but on an unofficial one as well. Finally,
I extend my extensive thanks on behalf of my government, myself, and
my nation to all those who have worked to make this historic summit a
success and especially to our foreign minister, our state minister
Atalay, the other pertinent ministers such as the defence and interior
ministers, Ambassador Umur Apaydin who is the chairman of the
organizing committee, all our friends who have taken part in the
organization of this summit, the Foreign Ministry community, all the
security personnel, our security organization, and members of the
Turkish Armed Forces who were tasked in this summit.
As I stated in the beginning of my address, I especially thank my
citizens of Istanbul and Ankara who experienced a different kind of
difficulty and who had a great share in the success of this summit and
you, my dear media members, who reported on the summit. Your work was
tiring and intensive. I believe that your work has contributed
abundantly to the future prestige of our country. Thank you again for
this. If you have any questions then we can proceed to them.
(Correspondent) Naturally, no doubt, one of the most important items
on the summit agenda was Iraq. How does Turkey think it will support
the new administration in Iraq? NATO has called for the training of
Iraqi soldiers. Is Turkey considering to undertake this training in
Iraq or in Turkey? There was a transfer of administration,
sovereignty, in Iraq. Do you think that a serious change,
tranquillity, is possible only through a transfer of sovereignty while
US troops are still in Iraq? Thank you.
(Erdogan) I will begin by extending my thanks. At the moment, through
this withdrawal, including Bremer, duties are being transferred to the
administration there. The form, the how, and why will be determined
through mutual meetings. We will do all we can, we will extend all
the aid and support we can during these talks. At the moment, nothing
is clear on this issue.
(Correspondent) I have two questions that are interlinked. One is
about the red lines of Turkey. How were these red lines manifested in
the NATO summit? Secondly, as you have just mentioned, what do you
have to say about the behaviour of the police forces while certain
nongovernmental organizations were expressing their democratic
reaction? What do you have to say to the use of pepper spray and the
fact that many people including policemen and demonstrators, were
injured? I thank you.
(Erdogan) I thank you as well. First I will reply to your first
question. The answers to the red lines were not sought in these
meetings. What we sought in these meetings was how to establish a
democratic Iraq and how NATO can help in establishing a democratic
Iraq be it in the field of education or the establishment of the
security forces there. What kind of a role can NATO play? These issues
were discussed. The details of these issues will be discussed later
on. What kind of a role will Turkey play in this process? We will see
that within the plan. There is nothing concrete at the moment.
As for the your second question, while the nongovernmental
organization were exercising their democratic rights as they view
them, I believe that the police forces exercised their duties. It is
impossible to see the overturning of nine vehicles as an expression of
freedoms. Vehicles belonging to civilian citizens were overturned. It
is impossible to define the damage caused as an expression of
freedom. The police forces showed the necessary tolerance to the very
end. When deterrence was needed, the police did what it could in the
most suitable manner within the framework of the package of
measures. I believe that it would be beneficial to view this as the
achievement of our police force. This is what I think.
(Correspondent) The EU issue was discussed. Were you satisfied with
the speeches the European leaders delivered on the issue?
(Erdogan) In general, the leaders of the EU member countries are
approaching the issue from the viewpoint that Turkey has no problem
with regards to the negotiation process. I believe that after having
experienced the NATO summit in Istanbul, all the EU member countries
will change their views in a positive manner. The developments will be
more positive and will be speeded up from now on.
(Correspondent, in English) Mediamax news agency Armenia. Don't you
think that the absence of diplomatic relations between Armenia and
Turkey and the closed border hinder the development of NATO-Armenia
relations? Thank you.
(Erdogan) I thank you. In addition to the meeting your foreign
minister, who came from Armenia, held with Mr Gul, I also met with
him. As a matter of fact, I also arranged a meeting with Mr
Aliyev. They met there as well. Naturally, all this happened through
mutual sacrifice and mutual tolerance. This was what was needed. Mr,
Gul, our honourable foreign minister and deputy prime minister, has
initiated a process by bringing together the foreign ministers of
Azerbaijan and Armenia. We hope that this process will continue and
pick up speed and that we will reach a solution here as well based on
the concept of win-win. We saw the sides had a positive
approach. Hope, however, is not sufficient. What is sufficient is to
get results. At the moment we are in the phase of wishes. We see that
they are determined to achieve results. We are saying that one should
continue on this path.
(Correspondent) NATO adopted a decision on the training of the Iraqi
security forces. What are Turkey's views on the issue? Do you want to
send training forces there? The second question is this: Will Turkey
want to command ISAF in the new phase? I thank you.
(Erdogan) I replied to these questions a while ago. What kind of a
training will it be? This will be determined through talks to be held
later on. In other words, will the training be conducted there or
here? There is nothing clear at the moment. As for ISAF, if you are
asking about Afghanistan, Turkey will send (troops) to Afghanistan
later on. Probably in during the February-August period.
(Correspondent from the Parity Democrat Westminster, in English, with
superimposed translation into Turkish) At this Istanbul summit, there
were two women presidents, four women ministers for foreign affairs,
four ministers of defence and two women national security
advisers. Turkey has made remarkable progress in the last few years in
legislating equal rights for women. There is only one woman minister
among your 23-member cabinet. When you next reshuffle your government,
could you not emulate the prophet and appoint at least four
distinguished women as ministers, even if they are not your daughters?
(Erdogan, laughing) You seem to have carefully counted the number of
women ministers attending the summit. I was unable to do so. At
present, my cabinet includes one state minister. It is our hope that
this number will increase in future cabinets and in possible future
developments that could come about because of any changes. This is
what we wish. Turkey will hold future elections in a very different
way. I believe that distance will be covered in this regard with every
passing day.
(Correspondent) As you noted at the beginning of your statement, the
final communique referred to the fact that the terrorist activities in
the region affect the surrounding countries as well. This is a subject
that Turkey also attaches importance to - the presence of the
PKK/Kongra-Gel (Workers Party of Kurdistan/People's Congress of
Kurdistan) in north Iraq. Was any progress recorded on this subject
during bilateral or interdelegational talks?
(Erdogan) They know our sensitivities in this regard. We also stated
them. Both NATO member countries and EU countries concur on the
establishment of a joint struggle platform against terrorism. They say
that, together, we will do our utmost on this subject. Once they
pledge to do that, we do not have the right to say: But, you are not
doing so, you will not do so. Jointly, we have to take the steps with
regard to our future moves.
(Correspondent from Agence Europe in Brussels, in English, with
superimposed translation into Turkish) I would like to come back to
the question of EU candidacy. First, yesterday, French President
Jacques Chirac said that if the European Commission report states that
Turkey is not ready, the negotiations with Turkey may be postponed by
six months to a year. Second, (EU Commissioner for Enlargement)
Verheugen is stressing the issue of implementing the reforms. He is
insisting on implementing the reforms, not just enacting them. What is
the status on the question of implementation? What do you think about
these statements?
(Erdogan) Thank you. This process has two main headlines - adaptation
and implementation. We claim that we have concluded the adaptation
process, and we are continuing our work regarding implementation with
great care. It is also a fact, however, that not all the elements of
adaptation need to be fully implemented. Even full EU members have not
achieved this yet. A change of mentality is being brought about, and
in doing this, it is not easy to include the entire package into the
implementation process and to achieve this in the implementation
process. We are, however, engaged in efforts to realize this with
sincerity and great determination. I believe that these officers in
charge of enlargement, Mr, Verheugen in particular, also see this
reality from close up. I also believe that the report that will be
drafted on Turkey will be along these lines. As far as the report is
concerned, in truth, I am not expecting a negative report. I am
expecting this report to be positive, because the steps we took are
very serious ones. The steps we took pertaining to freedoms are
evident. The work we undertook in many other fields, be it in the
sphere of democratization, the freedom of enterprise, or the freedom
of organization, is also every clear. Those who until two-three years
ago were saying that such things cannot happen have seen that these
things did take place in Turkey. Our European friends also see this
clearly. It is our expectation that the report will be positive. I do
not believe that there will be any hitches in this regard. In the
final analysis, naturally, it is the drafters of the report who will
come up with a positive or negative outcome. We can merely express our
expectation along the lines of the work we conducted. This is a
process, and we are fulfilling our duty within this process.
(Unidentified correspondent) In your opinion, did the anti-NATO
demonstrations held yesterday play any role in the release of the
Turkish hostages in Iraq?
(Erdogan) Why do people take hostages? It is not possible to
comprehend this. It is impossible to understand those who take
hostage defenceless people who went to that country in order to make a
living. If you are faced with an armed action, you can take hostages
or you can do whatever the situation calls for. That is a different
matter. In truth, I still fail to understand or to explain why people
who share my religion take hostage persons who have gone thousands of
kilometres to make a living or who are working in construction
there. I am having difficulty here. There is definitely no such thing
in our religion. I cannot know in exchange for what the hostages were
released. At least, it brings us peace and happiness that the three
hostages and their families have been saved from such psychological
hardship. We never advocate such means. It is very wrong to adopt
these methods, which have no connection whatsoever with Islam.
(Correspondent from Dunya newspaper) Mr Prime Minister, the European
army will be stationed in Bosnia-Hercegovina. How will this affect the
situation of the Turkish unit? Will there be any demands on Turkey,
which is not a member of the EU? Second, were the relations with
Israel raised during your meeting with President Bush? Certain
newspapers are suggesting that you will make up with Israel. Can you
comment on this?
(Erdogan) As you know, NATO is not withdrawing from Bosnia-Hercegovina
completely. Our army will continue to be stationed there with one
battalion. As for the second question, this subject was not raised in
any of our meetings.
(Unidentified correspondent) As you know, the European Court of Human
Rights decided to reject the suit filed by two students who wear the
Islamic headdress, and justified Turkey in this regard. Can you
comment on this subject?
(Erdogan) If you please, let us not deviate from today's agenda.
(Unidentified correspondent) US President Bush's support for Turkey's
EU accession caused a somewhat negative effect in European countries,
especially in France. Can you give us an insight into the reports we
have received in this regard? Does Turkey harbour the concern that the
US support for Turkey's accession may actually backfire?
(Erdogan) Let me explain to you the facts, rather than what is
happening behind the scenes. Mr Bush merely expressed his opinion and
his goodwill. Otherwise, it is not as though Mr Bush or other US
representatives are about to cast their votes on this matter. Given
that they will not cast their votes, it should not be regarded as
abnormal for the leader of the most powerful country in the world to
express his conviction. This is an expression of an opinion. I believe
that no one should be disturbed by this. He will not cast a vote. He
merely expressed his view. There may be those who share this view, and
those who do not. We hope that no one will disagree with him, and
Turkey will begin the negotiation process with the EU.
(Unidentified correspondent) Certain measures were announced in the
NATO communique on the subject of counterterrorism. Two of them
consist of issues that Turkey had grievances about in the past -
namely, the sharing of intelligence and the increase of the capability
to respond more rapidly to individual requests coming from member
countries in the wake of terrorist attacks. Can you give us some
information on this subject? Did Turkey play a role in making these
decisions?
Second, a decision was adopted to develop relations with Central Asia
and the Caucasus. A liaison officer and a special representative will
be appointed. Will Turkey play a role in this regard? Were these
issues raised during your talks with Central Asian leaders? Was the
issue of oil in the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline discussed during your meeting
with Kazakhstan's Nazarbayev?
(Erdogan) I will give you a joint answer for your two questions. As
you know, we do not dwell on details. Our technical teams address
these issues. We draw the general framework. The activities between
the leaders mostly focus on this general framework. Therefore, we do
not go into such detail. The flow of intelligence and information will
naturally take place, and it continues to take place.
(Unidentified correspondent) Was the issue of opening the seminary in
Heybeliada raised during the contacts you held within the framework of
the NATO summit, especially with US officials? Another question: Did
you have the opportunity to hold a meeting with Greek Prime Minister
Kostas Karamanlis?
(Erdogan) The seminary in Heybeliada was discussed, and we said that
work is currently being conducted in Turkey on this subject. As you
know, the real source of this matter is the difficulty that the
seminary was closed in 1971 following a decision by the Constitutional
Court. The relevant institutions are working on this subject. We will
act in accordance with the outcome of this work, or we will seek other
solutions.
With regard to the second question, as always, we conducted our talks
with Mr Karamanlis in a positive manner. Greece does not have any
opposition to the EU's granting a negotiation date to Turkey. Greece
is very clear on this subject. As always, our close dialogue is
continuing, and we are determined to continue this close dialogue in
the future as well. My contacts with Mr Karamanlis and Foreign
Minister Abdullah Gul's contacts with his Greek counterpart are
continuing. Likewise, the contacts between our institutions are also
continuing. We are also determined to continue our efforts within the
framework of this line of goodwill.
(Correspondent from the Wall Street Journal, in English, with
superimposed translation into Turkish) Mr Prime Minister, French
President Chirac said that he does not want to see NATO training
forces inside Iraq, because they can be seen as the Crusaders in that
country. At the same time, he was against sending Rapid Response
Forces to Afghanistan because that would constitute too extensive a
presence for NATO in that country. As the prime minister of a Muslim
country within NATO, what is your opinion on the use of NATO as an
instrument in these countries?
(Erdogan) A decision has not been made yet on where this training will
take place. NATO, however, does not subscribe to a principle of not
conducting training in a Muslim-populated country. This has been done
in the past, and it is being done currently. For example, Turkey is a
country with a Muslim majority, and NATO continuously informs our army
about the developments in the world, as necessary. If NATO reaches
such a decision, the same can be done in other countries.
As it happens, it is very wrong for us to discuss matters like
crusades or crescents. We should stop this. We should extract
ourselves from that psychological structure and environment. We should
view our respondent as a human being, and value him as a person. I
believe that the most important trace to be left in people's minds
from the Istanbul summit will be the image of a summit in which the
human being was accorded value. We no longer want to see NATO as an
international pact involved in armament races. From now on, we want to
see NATO as an international pact that is capable of undertaking all
that must be done to spread peace and a pact that prepares the
necessary infrastructure to that end. From now on, NATO must be the
address for this. I stressed this subject both in the Youth Summit and
during the NATO sessions. I believe that in the future, NATO should
also assume such a function. If we rechannel to education the funds we
currently allocate to weapons, I believe that the problems encountered
now by the human race will be greatly reduced, and terrorism will lose
its infrastructure. If we take into account that there is a
cause-and-effect relationship in terrorism and that terrorism is an
effect, poverty can be seen as the primary cause. Therefore, I believe
that at this point there is great benefit in developed countries'
supporting the poor underdeveloped countries with the aim of
eliminating poverty. This would help in preventing the exploitation of
this factor and in taking this toy away from them. As it happens, when
we look for the region that is most afflicted by terrorism in Turkey,
we see that this is the underdeveloped area of the country. We see
that these are poverty-stricken regions that are vulnerable to
exploitation. This is where we paid the price. Let us not pay this
price again. We also want the world and the human race not to pay this
price any more.
(Unidentified correspondent) You mentioned in a sentence in your
statement that Turkey will send troops to Afghanistan between February
and August. Can you supply more details? Will this be within the
framework of SFOR (Stabilization Force in Bosnia-Hercegovina) (as
heard) Command? Will Turkey accept to reassume the command of SFOR and
increase its troops? Or, will Turkey send troops to regions outside
Kabul within the framework of (word indistinct)?
(Erdogan) As a member of NATO, we will send troops to NATO
Headquarters, as was the case in the past. That is all. There are no
details yet. There is a long time until February, and many things can
change until then.
That was the last question. Thank you very much. Again, I apologize to
you and through you, to my nation, for the difficulties they
suffered. Let everyone know that they have greatly contributed to the
prestige and image of my nation and country. Do not forget that the
Istanbul summit will be talked about not only now, but for months and
years to come. Thank you very much.