Iraqi Turkmen Want Turkish Troops in Iraq

“Recent unfortunate incidents in the triangle formed by Baghdad, Felluca [Al Fallujah] and Bakuba [Ba’qubah] are distressing the Iraqi people,” said Iraqi Turkmen Front representative Ahmet Muratli yesterday. “Additional foreign forces are needed.” He added that Turkish troops made up the most experienced army in the Middle East. Kemal Beyatli, chairman of the Iraqi Turks Culture and Solidarity Association, said that Turkish troops have a tradition of aiding people in distress. In addition, Kirkuk Foundation head Izzettin Kerkuk stated that Turkish soldiers should go to Iraq so that Ankara will have a say in Iraq’s reconstruction and also to protect the nation’s interests.