Senator Lugar Discusses Troop Deployment Issue with Gul

“I do believe that Turkey’s participation would help stabilize the country,” Lugar told reporters. “Turkey’s experience is of crucial importance with regards to guaranteeing Iraq’s stability. We think [Turkey and the US] have common interests in a democratic and stable Iraq … So are hopeful of Turkey’s participation.” Later, Justice Minister Cemil Cicek received the US senator. Speaking after their meeting, Cicek said that Turkey’s decision on troop deployment would not be influenced by Tuesday’s car-bomb attack against the United Nations’ headquarters in Baghdad, a sentiment also expressed by Gul. Lugar later also met separately with Chief of General Staff Gen. Hilmi Ozkok and Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul.