JEDDAH, 1 June 2004 — Turkey and Saudi Arabia are to sign an agreement to fight terrorism and crimes jointly, according to Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul.
Gul met Crown Prince Abdullah and Foreign Minister Saud Al-Faisal here yesterday.
He told reporters at the Conference Palace that Turkey was also a victim of terrorism. “We have the experience and together can develop the strengths (of) intelligence and specialized forces,” he added. Turkey is ready to offer all the help it can give. “We are ready to share our experience, our capability,” he added.
Gul said he found Saudi Arabia united, organized and determined to root out terrorism. “The Saudi people are with their leadership,” he added.
Gul emphasized common ground between the two countries on regional and international issues.
“What is happening in Palestine is very disturbing. It is poisoning the air in the region,” he said. More action is needed to implement the road map and to monitor it. “Both sides have to implement the plan, otherwise the negative effects will go on increasing. You cannot isolate what is happening there.. everybody has to work for lasting peace and the rights of the Palestinians,” the foreign minister said.
He said Turkey had made it clear that Israeli Prime Minister Sharon’s policy is not correct is dangerous for the region and hurts Israel’s own security.
Saudi Arabia had shown itself supportive of the Turkish candidature for the post of secretary general of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. “Saudi Arabia’s position is very constructive and sincere,” he said.
The election is to take place during the OIC meeting in Turkey from June 14 to 16. The Turkish candidate is Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu.
“Our position is that in the past the eastern part of Asia gave the secretary general to the OIC. This time we think there must be someone from western Asia. If the Turkish candidate is elected, we will represent European Muslims also, because they cannot be ignored,” Gul said.
“We respect the other candidates. We are not happy to find ourselves in competition with Malaysia and Bangladesh,” he said but added, “I am sure that there will be some solution.”
