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ISLAMABAD - Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said Greek Cypriot administration's attempts to explore petroleum and natural gas in the eastern Mediterranean is a serious issue adding "I am sure all of Europe, NATO and Mediterranean littoral countries can see what kind of provocation this is and how dangerous these issues are without a permanent solution".
Gul who is in Pakistan to attend an international meeting on the Middle East answered questions on Sunday regarding the recent issues on the agenda on his way from Turkey to Islamabad.
"I hope Europe and NATO see how Greek Cypriots take steps in a time when there is a great need for cooperation and solidarity" said Gul.
Stressing that Greek Cypriots do not represent the whole island, Gul asked "if they represent whole Cyprus why do not they have police or officers in Girne or Karpaz?"
"Greek Cypriot initiative to share surroundings of an island which it does not totally represent is a great provocation. I am sure they (EU and NATO) are aware of it," Gul stated.
-PKK INTERVIEWS-
When reminded of interviews about the terrorist organization PKK that were broadcast in Denmark, Gul said they have taken steps regarding it. "We document these and we make our applications but we have other activities regarding these."
-AL-HARAM AL-SHARIF-
Regarding the committee that is expected to be sent to investigate the construction works around al-Haram al-Sharif, Gul said that this is not the issue of only Palestinians but all Muslims.
"Of course al-Haram al-Sharif is Palestinian land. There are old agreements in Jordan, there is a foundation there. Committees will come to Turkey from Jordan and Palestine. They will inform us regarding the issue. We will ask the essence of the issue to them and then act accordingly," he said.
-VISIT OF PARLIAMENTARIANS OF TURKISH DESCENT-
Upon a question regarding the visit of European parliamentarians of Turkish descent, Gul said "these Turkish citizens settled in Europe, they worked and became parliament members, ministers. This is the first time we remember them."
Gul said he reminded the guests that although they are German MPs, Belgian ministers or senators they have a debt to Turkish lands. Gul added, "they are already aware of this."
-VISIT OF QUEEN BEATRIX-
Gul said that he will be in central Anatolian city of Kayseri when Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands pays a visit to this city.
FM Gul added that such a visit would be beneficial in terms of showing that Turkey does not consist of only Ankara and Istanbul. "They will see how modern and developed the city is and how efficient its industry is and this would change the image of Turkey."
