"We will Consult with General Staff"

He also stated that the American request will first be evaluated by the government and then the General Staff will be consulted for its advice.

Gul said that one of the statesmen interested in Turkey is the US Vice President Dick Cheney and stressed the fact that Cheney had personally contributed to the efforts ensuring that the Armenian Bill not be passed in the US Congress.

Gul let it be known that Cheney had asked questions about the Turkish Economy and emphasized Iraq’s territorial integrity.

"Talks were really very open, honest and understanding. Turkey’s significance was displayed. Everything was openly talked about." continued Gul.

Also noting that the meeting with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Head Horst Kohler was very efficient, Gul said that the fifth review by the IMF has been completed and a letter of intention has reached Washington. The Foreign Affairs Minister said that the government’s determination to implement economic reforms as well as Turkey’s economic performance were taken up during the talks with the IMF. IMF Turkey Desk Chair Riza Moghadam was also present at the talks.