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GUL ADDRESSES THE 60TH SESSION OF THE U.N. GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Anatolian Times, Turkey
Sept 22 2005
NEW YORK - Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah
Gul has indicated that the developments in Iraq are highly prominent
for peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond. "An Iraq in
peace with its neighbors, democratic and rich will be created only
with the inclusion of all the Iraqi groups in a coalition and with
a new vision," stated Gul.
In an address delivered to the 60th session of the United Nations
General Assembly, Gul remarked that presence of different ethnic
and religious groups should not divide Iraq. "On the contrary, a
multi-cultural society would make Iraq stronger. If multi-culturalism
does not live up to its expectations, this would generate conflicts
and instability in Iraq," noted Gul.
At the beginning of his speech, Gul offered the condolences of the
Turkish people to the American people for the tragic loss of life and
large-scale destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina. "This is also a
stark reminder of the many other natural and manmade disasters, such
as famine in Africa, tsunamis, earthquakes, ecological catastrophes
and wide scale violence and terrorism. They all require sustained
international attention and cooperation. Having suffered from similar
disasters, Turkey deeply feels for others and stands in solidarity,"
he said.
"Upholding the principles of justice, dignity, equality and social
progress for the men and women of our world should be the basis of the
international order. We must spread justice together with freedom. We
cannot rest before we provide prosperity and dignity for every human
being. These principles should guide us in our future efforts,"
said Gul.
Gul stated that a very busy period has been left behind, culminating
with an important Summit. "The Summit Outcome Document has encouraged
us all to focus on the global problems we face and the way to
achieve positive change. Now is the time to act. We must start
implementing what we have agreed on issues from peace building to
human rights. While doing this, we must not lose sight of our main
target. We must reach the internationally agreed development goals,
including the Millenium Development Goals, by the year 2015. With
these in mind, we welcome the Secretary-General's proposal to start
with an accountability pact. We also welcome Mr. President's idea to
submit an outline of work for the year ahead, related to the Summit
follow-up," commented Gul.
Gul emphasized that a large number of international problems that
are high on the United Nations' agenda are occurring in Turkey's
part of the world. "These are real issues, which closely affect the
daily lives of our people. As a country with a rich heritage and
great international experience, we are working to build a culture of
compromise and reconciliation. Our historical and cultural links to
nations living in neighboring regions from Eurasia to the Islamic
World and our role as a member of European, Trans-Atlantic and
Mediterranean institutions will have a positive effect on Turkey's
contribution to international relations in the 21st century. It is
with this background and confidence that I take the opportunity to
submit to your attention Turkey's candidacy for a non-permanent seat
at the Security Council for the term 2009-2010," he said.
-MIDDLE EAST-
Noting that recent developments in the Middle East Peace Process and
in Lebanon had raised their hopes, Gul said, "ongoing reform efforts
hold great promise for the improvement of the political, social and
economic standards of the region. We will continue to encourage and
assist these local efforts. On the Arab-Israeli conflict the Israeli
withdrawal from the Gaza Strip is an encouraging development. We
would like to witness the same positive trend in the West Bank.
Israeli settlement activities in occupied territories must come to
an end. The sanctity of the Holy Sites in Jerusalem must be respected.
The Road Map should be revived and fully implemented."
"On the other hand, we must not let terror and violence derail the
process this time. The reform of the Palestinian National Authority
has to move forward, particularly in the security domain. The
efforts to improve the living conditions of the Palestinians have
to be intensified. We support the work of James Wolfensohn, Quartet
Special Envoy for Disengagement and cooperate with him. We believe
these efforts will help restore a sense of hope among the Palestinians,
and security for the Israelis," he said.
Gul kept on saying, "in order to integrate the Palestinians with
the world, the sea and airports must be built and activated;
border crossings and trade corridors must function smoothly;
freedom of movement must be achieved. Such measures will go a long
way to revitalize the Palestinian economy. This will encourage the
Palestinians to become real partners in peace with the Israelis.
Turkey is already actively working with the parties, for the
realization of this vision. We are determined to continue to contribute
in any way we can."
"Iraq's destiny and the way the events are unfolding in this country
are of crucial importance for peace and stability in the Middle East
and beyond. Building a democratic and prosperous Iraq, at peace with
itself and its neighbors could be possible only if the Iraqi people
act as one, in full solidarity and with a clear vision. Ethnical and
religious differences in Iraq should not be divisive. Rather they
should be a source of cultural plurality. Otherwise the new Iraq
will be a source of instability and conflict, instead of hope and
inspiration for the entire region," he said.
Noting that Turkey, in cooperation with the United Nations, had been
in the forefront of efforts for political and economic rehabilitation
in Iraq, Gul said, "the Neighbors of Iraq Forum, again pioneered
by Turkey, has been an efficient platform to support the unity and
territorial integrity of Iraq. The security situation is a source
of concern for all. Iraq has unfortunately become a training ground
for terrorists. As a neighboring country, we suffer from this. We
are concerned that terrorism emanating from Iraq might have a ripple
effect upon other countries, including Turkey. It is our joint duty
to prevent such an outcome."
Gul said "UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan's soundings and efforts to
re-activate the talks, based on his plan, have yielded no tangible
results because of the continued intransigence of the Greek Cypriot
administration. As if this was not enough, the Greek Cypriot
administration is now trying to side-line the United Nations and
carry the issue to other fora. I urge all international actors to
discourage these misguided efforts."
Gul said, "our vision of establishing a zone of regional peace,
stability and economic cooperation in the South Caucasus is yet to be
realized. The problems of Upper-Karabakh, Abkhazia and South Ossetia
continue to impede peace and cooperation. These problems defy all
UN principles. They demand our urgent attention. In particular,
a peaceful settlement must be found to the Upper-Karabakh issue,
within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Steps towards ending
the occupation of Azerbaijani territory will create a better climate
in the region, including in the Turkish-Armenian relations. We are
giving full support to the efforts of the Minsk Group. We are closely
following the high-level contacts between Turkey's two neighbors and
encouraging the parties to make progress."
Stressing that many challenges still lied ahead in Afghanistan,
Gul said, "the continued support of the international community is
still needed. Among others, education, health, gender equality and
economic development need increased attention. Alternative crops must
be encouraged in order to replace widespread poppy cultivation. As
a country, which has led the international security assistance
force (ISAF) in Afghanistan twice, for a period of 14 months in the
last three years, I wish to reiterate our continued commitment. We
welcome the holding of the elections as an encouraging development
for democracy in Afghanistan."
"We are determined to continue our support for the strengthening
of peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Europe. The Balkan
region has made considerable progress towards the establishment of a
peaceful environment, leading to economic development. The political
and economic consolidation of Bosnia-Herzegovina and final status
talks in Kosovo need to be monitored carefully. Turkey will continue
to be a reliable partner in this process," he said.
-CYPRUS ISSUE-
Referring to the Cyprus issue, Gul said, "regarding the Eastern
Mediterranean, our vision is to create a basin of cooperation,
stability and prosperity among Turkey, Greece and the two peoples
of Cyprus. However, it is regrettable that, at a time when we are
debating the best way to reform the UN and enhance its role, we are
at the same time witnessing an attempt to move the Cyprus problem
away from this Organization. We regard these efforts to undermine
the role of the UN as a most disturbing paradox."
"The Annan Plan represented a unique basis for the solution of
this problem. Although it did not fully meet their expectations,
the Turkish Cypriots, for the sake of compromise, approved the
Plan with an overwhelming majority. On the other hand, under the
effective guidance of the Greek Cypriot leadership, the rejection
of the Annan Plan at a referendum held last year was a blow to
the international community. Thus, the chance to put an end to the
division of the Island, once and for all, was missed. The Report of
the Secretary-General, issued after the referendum gave an overview
of the long negotiating process and recommended the lifting of
all restrictions upon the Turkish Cypriots. Unfortunately, against
established practice, the comprehensive Report of the Secretary-General
on Cyprus is being disregarded. As a result, the unfair restrictions
imposed upon the Turkish Cypriots could not be lifted. One might find
it difficult to believe that the Turkish Cypriots still continue to
live under restrictions, cut off from the outside world," he said.
Gul stressed, "in the following period the Secretary-General's
soundings and efforts to re-activate the talks, based on his plan,
have yielded no tangible results because of the continued intransigence
of the Greek Cypriot administration. As if this was not enough, the
Greek Cypriot administration is now trying to side-line the United
Nations and carry the issue to other fora. I urge all international
actors to discourage these misguided efforts."
Noting that Turkey continued to be ready to contribute to the United
Nations' endeavors to find a just, equitable and lasting solution
to the Cyprus problem on the basis of the Annan Plan, Gul said,
"on this occasion, I would like to reiterate the proposal that I
made, on May 30th, 2005 for the lifting of all restrictions related
to the Island. In this proposal, I basically suggested the need
to enable the free movement of people, goods and services and the
lifting of all restrictions applied to sea and airports between the
two sides in Cyprus as well as to Turkey and Greece. It is evident
that this proposal conforms with the legitimate expectations of the
international community."
Emphasizing that Turkey attached great importance to furthering
the relations and cooperation with the African continent, Gul said,
"according to an action plan, Turkey is vigorously developing its
relations with Africa as a whole. We recently opened an office in Addis
Ababa to serve as a coordination center for Turkish humanitarian and
developmental assistance to the continent. The Turkish Government
has also declared 2005 as the 'Year of Africa' in Turkey. We will
continue with our contributions to international institutions,
working to alleviate the suffering and eliminate disease and hunger
in the continent."
-"NO DISTINCTION SHOULD BE MADE BETWEEN TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS"-
"I would like now to touch upon some other issues of utmost importance,
which do not recognize any geographical boundaries. The chain of
attacks in various parts of the world prove that no country is immune
from terrorism. We condemn these atrocities in the strongest terms. No
distinction should be made between terrorist organizations. There is
no room for double standards in this fight.
We must reject it as a method, regardless of where, why and how it
is employed. Combating terrorism should be of a global and collective
nature, and the UN should continue to play a prominent role," he said.
Gul noted, "we welcome Security Council Resolutions 1624 and 1625,
which called for strengthened steps against incitement of terrorist
acts and to prevent armed conflict, particularly in Africa. We must
also resist any temptation to associate any specific culture, religion
or faith with terrorism."
"We should keep in mind that the right to peaceful uses of nuclear
energy requires full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy
Agency, in a transparent manner. The establishment of Weapons of Mass
Destruction-free zones, particularly in the Middle East will be an
important contribution to international peace and security," he said.
Gul ended his speech saying, "strengthening muttilateralism and the
central role of the UN in the international system is a fundamental
aspect of our foreign policy. It is the strongest hope and guarantee
for a safer and better world."
Anatolian Times, Turkey
Sept 22 2005
NEW YORK - Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah
Gul has indicated that the developments in Iraq are highly prominent
for peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond. "An Iraq in
peace with its neighbors, democratic and rich will be created only
with the inclusion of all the Iraqi groups in a coalition and with
a new vision," stated Gul.
In an address delivered to the 60th session of the United Nations
General Assembly, Gul remarked that presence of different ethnic
and religious groups should not divide Iraq. "On the contrary, a
multi-cultural society would make Iraq stronger. If multi-culturalism
does not live up to its expectations, this would generate conflicts
and instability in Iraq," noted Gul.
At the beginning of his speech, Gul offered the condolences of the
Turkish people to the American people for the tragic loss of life and
large-scale destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina. "This is also a
stark reminder of the many other natural and manmade disasters, such
as famine in Africa, tsunamis, earthquakes, ecological catastrophes
and wide scale violence and terrorism. They all require sustained
international attention and cooperation. Having suffered from similar
disasters, Turkey deeply feels for others and stands in solidarity,"
he said.
"Upholding the principles of justice, dignity, equality and social
progress for the men and women of our world should be the basis of the
international order. We must spread justice together with freedom. We
cannot rest before we provide prosperity and dignity for every human
being. These principles should guide us in our future efforts,"
said Gul.
Gul stated that a very busy period has been left behind, culminating
with an important Summit. "The Summit Outcome Document has encouraged
us all to focus on the global problems we face and the way to
achieve positive change. Now is the time to act. We must start
implementing what we have agreed on issues from peace building to
human rights. While doing this, we must not lose sight of our main
target. We must reach the internationally agreed development goals,
including the Millenium Development Goals, by the year 2015. With
these in mind, we welcome the Secretary-General's proposal to start
with an accountability pact. We also welcome Mr. President's idea to
submit an outline of work for the year ahead, related to the Summit
follow-up," commented Gul.
Gul emphasized that a large number of international problems that
are high on the United Nations' agenda are occurring in Turkey's
part of the world. "These are real issues, which closely affect the
daily lives of our people. As a country with a rich heritage and
great international experience, we are working to build a culture of
compromise and reconciliation. Our historical and cultural links to
nations living in neighboring regions from Eurasia to the Islamic
World and our role as a member of European, Trans-Atlantic and
Mediterranean institutions will have a positive effect on Turkey's
contribution to international relations in the 21st century. It is
with this background and confidence that I take the opportunity to
submit to your attention Turkey's candidacy for a non-permanent seat
at the Security Council for the term 2009-2010," he said.
-MIDDLE EAST-
Noting that recent developments in the Middle East Peace Process and
in Lebanon had raised their hopes, Gul said, "ongoing reform efforts
hold great promise for the improvement of the political, social and
economic standards of the region. We will continue to encourage and
assist these local efforts. On the Arab-Israeli conflict the Israeli
withdrawal from the Gaza Strip is an encouraging development. We
would like to witness the same positive trend in the West Bank.
Israeli settlement activities in occupied territories must come to
an end. The sanctity of the Holy Sites in Jerusalem must be respected.
The Road Map should be revived and fully implemented."
"On the other hand, we must not let terror and violence derail the
process this time. The reform of the Palestinian National Authority
has to move forward, particularly in the security domain. The
efforts to improve the living conditions of the Palestinians have
to be intensified. We support the work of James Wolfensohn, Quartet
Special Envoy for Disengagement and cooperate with him. We believe
these efforts will help restore a sense of hope among the Palestinians,
and security for the Israelis," he said.
Gul kept on saying, "in order to integrate the Palestinians with
the world, the sea and airports must be built and activated;
border crossings and trade corridors must function smoothly;
freedom of movement must be achieved. Such measures will go a long
way to revitalize the Palestinian economy. This will encourage the
Palestinians to become real partners in peace with the Israelis.
Turkey is already actively working with the parties, for the
realization of this vision. We are determined to continue to contribute
in any way we can."
"Iraq's destiny and the way the events are unfolding in this country
are of crucial importance for peace and stability in the Middle East
and beyond. Building a democratic and prosperous Iraq, at peace with
itself and its neighbors could be possible only if the Iraqi people
act as one, in full solidarity and with a clear vision. Ethnical and
religious differences in Iraq should not be divisive. Rather they
should be a source of cultural plurality. Otherwise the new Iraq
will be a source of instability and conflict, instead of hope and
inspiration for the entire region," he said.
Noting that Turkey, in cooperation with the United Nations, had been
in the forefront of efforts for political and economic rehabilitation
in Iraq, Gul said, "the Neighbors of Iraq Forum, again pioneered
by Turkey, has been an efficient platform to support the unity and
territorial integrity of Iraq. The security situation is a source
of concern for all. Iraq has unfortunately become a training ground
for terrorists. As a neighboring country, we suffer from this. We
are concerned that terrorism emanating from Iraq might have a ripple
effect upon other countries, including Turkey. It is our joint duty
to prevent such an outcome."
Gul said "UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan's soundings and efforts to
re-activate the talks, based on his plan, have yielded no tangible
results because of the continued intransigence of the Greek Cypriot
administration. As if this was not enough, the Greek Cypriot
administration is now trying to side-line the United Nations and
carry the issue to other fora. I urge all international actors to
discourage these misguided efforts."
Gul said, "our vision of establishing a zone of regional peace,
stability and economic cooperation in the South Caucasus is yet to be
realized. The problems of Upper-Karabakh, Abkhazia and South Ossetia
continue to impede peace and cooperation. These problems defy all
UN principles. They demand our urgent attention. In particular,
a peaceful settlement must be found to the Upper-Karabakh issue,
within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Steps towards ending
the occupation of Azerbaijani territory will create a better climate
in the region, including in the Turkish-Armenian relations. We are
giving full support to the efforts of the Minsk Group. We are closely
following the high-level contacts between Turkey's two neighbors and
encouraging the parties to make progress."
Stressing that many challenges still lied ahead in Afghanistan,
Gul said, "the continued support of the international community is
still needed. Among others, education, health, gender equality and
economic development need increased attention. Alternative crops must
be encouraged in order to replace widespread poppy cultivation. As
a country, which has led the international security assistance
force (ISAF) in Afghanistan twice, for a period of 14 months in the
last three years, I wish to reiterate our continued commitment. We
welcome the holding of the elections as an encouraging development
for democracy in Afghanistan."
"We are determined to continue our support for the strengthening
of peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Europe. The Balkan
region has made considerable progress towards the establishment of a
peaceful environment, leading to economic development. The political
and economic consolidation of Bosnia-Herzegovina and final status
talks in Kosovo need to be monitored carefully. Turkey will continue
to be a reliable partner in this process," he said.
-CYPRUS ISSUE-
Referring to the Cyprus issue, Gul said, "regarding the Eastern
Mediterranean, our vision is to create a basin of cooperation,
stability and prosperity among Turkey, Greece and the two peoples
of Cyprus. However, it is regrettable that, at a time when we are
debating the best way to reform the UN and enhance its role, we are
at the same time witnessing an attempt to move the Cyprus problem
away from this Organization. We regard these efforts to undermine
the role of the UN as a most disturbing paradox."
"The Annan Plan represented a unique basis for the solution of
this problem. Although it did not fully meet their expectations,
the Turkish Cypriots, for the sake of compromise, approved the
Plan with an overwhelming majority. On the other hand, under the
effective guidance of the Greek Cypriot leadership, the rejection
of the Annan Plan at a referendum held last year was a blow to
the international community. Thus, the chance to put an end to the
division of the Island, once and for all, was missed. The Report of
the Secretary-General, issued after the referendum gave an overview
of the long negotiating process and recommended the lifting of
all restrictions upon the Turkish Cypriots. Unfortunately, against
established practice, the comprehensive Report of the Secretary-General
on Cyprus is being disregarded. As a result, the unfair restrictions
imposed upon the Turkish Cypriots could not be lifted. One might find
it difficult to believe that the Turkish Cypriots still continue to
live under restrictions, cut off from the outside world," he said.
Gul stressed, "in the following period the Secretary-General's
soundings and efforts to re-activate the talks, based on his plan,
have yielded no tangible results because of the continued intransigence
of the Greek Cypriot administration. As if this was not enough, the
Greek Cypriot administration is now trying to side-line the United
Nations and carry the issue to other fora. I urge all international
actors to discourage these misguided efforts."
Noting that Turkey continued to be ready to contribute to the United
Nations' endeavors to find a just, equitable and lasting solution
to the Cyprus problem on the basis of the Annan Plan, Gul said,
"on this occasion, I would like to reiterate the proposal that I
made, on May 30th, 2005 for the lifting of all restrictions related
to the Island. In this proposal, I basically suggested the need
to enable the free movement of people, goods and services and the
lifting of all restrictions applied to sea and airports between the
two sides in Cyprus as well as to Turkey and Greece. It is evident
that this proposal conforms with the legitimate expectations of the
international community."
Emphasizing that Turkey attached great importance to furthering
the relations and cooperation with the African continent, Gul said,
"according to an action plan, Turkey is vigorously developing its
relations with Africa as a whole. We recently opened an office in Addis
Ababa to serve as a coordination center for Turkish humanitarian and
developmental assistance to the continent. The Turkish Government
has also declared 2005 as the 'Year of Africa' in Turkey. We will
continue with our contributions to international institutions,
working to alleviate the suffering and eliminate disease and hunger
in the continent."
-"NO DISTINCTION SHOULD BE MADE BETWEEN TERRORIST ORGANIZATIONS"-
"I would like now to touch upon some other issues of utmost importance,
which do not recognize any geographical boundaries. The chain of
attacks in various parts of the world prove that no country is immune
from terrorism. We condemn these atrocities in the strongest terms. No
distinction should be made between terrorist organizations. There is
no room for double standards in this fight.
We must reject it as a method, regardless of where, why and how it
is employed. Combating terrorism should be of a global and collective
nature, and the UN should continue to play a prominent role," he said.
Gul noted, "we welcome Security Council Resolutions 1624 and 1625,
which called for strengthened steps against incitement of terrorist
acts and to prevent armed conflict, particularly in Africa. We must
also resist any temptation to associate any specific culture, religion
or faith with terrorism."
"We should keep in mind that the right to peaceful uses of nuclear
energy requires full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy
Agency, in a transparent manner. The establishment of Weapons of Mass
Destruction-free zones, particularly in the Middle East will be an
important contribution to international peace and security," he said.
Gul ended his speech saying, "strengthening muttilateralism and the
central role of the UN in the international system is a fundamental
aspect of our foreign policy. It is the strongest hope and guarantee
for a safer and better world."