We agree on seperate region under Turkey’s command"

Stating that the negotiations with the US delegation was positive, Gul said, “We agreed on Turkey having a separate sector and command.”

Noting hat the US has submitted different proposals on a wide geography, Gul said that Turkey’s decisions would be important if a decision can be reached. At that point we have the right to decide.”

Gul said that the number of the Turkish soldiers and the cost of the expenses would be set later.

Stating that the US military officials would arrive in Turkey next week, Gul said the process continues.

Asked whether the news on Turkey cutting the relations with the US due to Washington’s approach regarding the terrorist organization Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK/KADEK), do not reflect the truth and the a separate mission will come Turkey in this respect.

In response to a question on if the decision regarding Turkey sending troops to Iraq would be given in October, Gul said the political decision will be easier when the military negotiations are completed.

“TURKEY HAS FULFILED COPENHAGEN CRITERIA AND WILL CONTINIUE TO FULFIL”

Speaking of Turkey’s European Union bid, Gul said that the Turkish ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) fulfils the Copenhagen criteria.

Arriving in Italy to participate to the EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Brescia, Gul said that he would inform EU about the reforms in Turkey.

Stating that he would brief EU about Turkey’s EU process between 2003-2004, Gul said that he would also mention about Turkey’s expectations from EU.

“Turkey has fulfilled the Copenhagen criteria and will continue to fulfill,” Gul said.

Stating that the Iraq issue would also be discussed during his contacts, Gul said that they also consider EU perspective on Iraq issue adding that he places importance to reach a decision on sending troops within a democratic process rather than deployment.

Asked about the customs union agreement, Gul said that the agreement is signed on the EU standards to be implemented in the Northern Cyprus.

Gul said that his contacts will continue with his German and French counterparts, Joschka Fischer and Dominique de Villepin.