Anatolian Times, Turkey
May 14 2006

Erdogan On So-called Armenian Genocide Allegations

ANKARA – “I believe that the French parliament will not bring
forward so-called Armenian genocide (allegations) as a virus between
the two countries (Turkey and France) which have significant
relations,“ said Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Before flying to Austria to participate in the EU-Latin America
Summit, Erdogan underlined deep-rooted bilateral relations, and
expressed belief that common sense will prevail at the French
parliament.

“Because, Turkish-French relations are not just ordinary
relations,“ he stressed.

Erdogan stated that French companies are ranked the first among
foreign companies investing in Turkey.

“We will have meetings in Vienna,“ said Erdogan when answering a
question if he has talked to French authorities regarding the
resolution on so-called Armenian genocide allegations.

“As you know, I had a meeting with executives of French companies
working in Turkey yesterday. They think that this is a very unjust
move against Turkey. They said that it is impossible for them to
accept such a thing. They told me that the chairmen of their
companies are holding talks with necessary French authorities, and
assured me that they will convey our views to them and demand that
this injustice will be overcome,“ he noted.

-EU-LATIN AMERICA SUMMIT-

Briefing reporters on the EU-Latin America summit and the bilateral
meetings he will have on the margin of this summit, Erdogan said that
he is invited as a special guest to the summit.

According to Erdogan, executives of 60 countries, including those of
33 Latin American and Caribbean countries, will participate in the
summit in which democracy, human rights and international peace will
be debated.

Erdogan indicated that he will meet Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang
Schuessel and exchange views on bilateral relations as well as
international topics.

“We will have the opportunity to debate our EU membership bid,
especially the screening process and negotiations,“ he stressed.

-D-8 SUMMIT-

Erdogan said that he will proceed to Indonesia after his visit to
Austria to attend D-8 summit.

Noting that Indonesian President will chair the meeting to be held on
May 13th, Erdogan said that Iranian and Nigerian presidents,
Malaysian and Pakistani prime ministers, and Egyptian foreign
minister will participate in the summit.

Erdogan drew attention that the D-8 initiative was launched as “a
development cooperation mechanism“ under leadership of Turkey, and
stated that D-8 aims to enhance cooperation among countries which
have rich natural resources and significant man power.

According to Erdogan, a Bali Declaration, D-8 Preferential Trade
Agreement, and an administrative cooperation agreement in area of
customs will be signed at the end of the summit.