LIPPONEN HOLDS A NEWS CONFERENCE

Turkish Press
Oct 24 2006

ANKARA – The Party of European Socialists (PES) group co-chairman,
Finnish Parliament Speaker Paavo Lipponen said that he would meet
secretary general of Socialist Party in France to discuss the bill
(aims to criminalize denial of so-called Armenian genocide) which
would be voted in the French parliament this week.

At a news conference in Ankara, Lipponen noted that they had concerns
that if the draft law is approved in the French parliament, it will
yield some unfavorable results in both EU and also Turkey.

Indicating that so-called Armenian genocide would not be a criterion or
condition for Turkey in its EU accession process, Lipponen underlined
that relations between Turkey and Armenia must be normalized.

Replying to a question, Lipponen said that he would convey concerns
regarding the matter to secretary general of Socialist Party in France.

Stressing that PES supported Turkey’s EU accession process, he noted
that they did not consider "privileged partnership" for Turkey,
but full membership.

"I’m sure that Turkish government is resolved to keep fulfilling
reforms. EU appreciates the progress in Turkey," Lipponen said.

Lipponen noted that Turkish parliament would make a decision regarding
the fate of Article 301 of Turkish Penal Code (TCK), stating that
however they hoped that something would be made on this article.

In regard to Cyprus issue, Lipponen noted that this matter could be
solved under the UN.

Responding a question, Lipponen stated that Justice & Development
Party (AKP) has become "a reform party", stressing that AKP achieved
important success in Turkish economy.