ANKARA Ñ The government of Prime Minister Abdullah Gul has
accelerated the pace of its decisions regarding cooperation with the United
States in the expected war against Iraq.
The flurry of Turkish activity came in wake of U.S. complaints over
Ankara's hesitations in joining the war effort against Iraq. U.S. officials
said the delays stem from divisions within the Gul government.
Officials said the Gul government has agreed in principle to double the
number of U.S. troops deployed in Turkey, Middle East Newsline reported. They said Ankara is also ready to
approve a draft accord on U.S. aid to Turkey that would include the
modernization of military bases.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry said Ankara and Washington agreed on the
legal and financial frameworks for U.S. modernization of the military bases.
Officials said 3,500 U.S. troops would arrive for the upgrade project Ñ
estimated at $300 million Ñ and would be subject to Turkish law during
their stay.
Turkish NTV television reported that the government has approved the
deployment of up to 38,000 U.S. troops in Turkey as well as the use of three
air bases for an attack on Iraq. The bases were identified as Batman,
Diyarbakir and Incirlik Ñ all in southern Turkey. Three other military
bases would be reserved for U.S. logistical support, the television said.
Treasury Undersecretary John Taylor discussed a U.S. aid package to
Turkey of up to
$15 billion during meetings late last week. The Andalou news agency reported
that Turkey reached agreement with Taylor regarding compensation for any
U.S.-led war against Iraq.
"There's no question, but that the delays that result from the
uncertainties that exist within their government are unfortunate," U.S.
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said. "On the other hand, I suspect that
when all is said and done, Turkey will be helpful and will be with us."