World Tribune.com

Turkey expedites decision-making on U.S. deployment

SPECIAL TO WORLD TRIBUNE.COM
Monday, February 10, 2003

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."

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