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Turkish PM Offers Sharon Peace with Palestine |
3 May 2005The meeting of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon was a scene for lively and interesting discussions.
Sharon told Erdogan that he had been to Turkey before the Six Day Wars and traveled to the historical cities of Bursa, Konya, and, Istanbul and said: "Turkey's large delicious sweet figs dwelt in my memory; I can not forget the way they taste."
Erdogan asked Sharon to put stop to the fighting and violence with the Palestinians and said the conflict would not help either side, and gave the Syrians as an example. "You cannot solve anything through violence. Syria has sheltered the organization that conduct terrorist attacks against us in its territory for years. We have lost up to 40,000 soldiers and civilians. But today, we have opened a new chapter with Syria," said Erdogan and reminded: "We are looking towards the future. You can do same with the Palestinians." On the other hand, Sharon revealed to Erdogan that it is not possible to make concessions regarding security and explained that no treaty and commitment that is not implemented has any value. Sharon said: "We could not make any postive steps for the road map. In order for the road map to be successful, there are steps that need to be taken. Abu Mazen is a nice man; but he cannot take necessary steps. There will be no developments or changes as long as terrorism continues."
Sharon also revealed that he wants peace. "I have a big farm; I love to go riding, spending time looking after the sheep and the cows. I would like to spend time with them.". Erdogan responded with: "Do not be so despairing. Do you have the same conditions that they do? You are a strong country; Palestine is only just starting outÔÇÐ" The Israeli Prime Minister also noted that Erdogan would lead in democratization of moderate Islamic groups. In complaining about Turkey voting against Israel at every United Nations (UN) election saying: "We give our absolute support for your UN Security Council temporary membership. We have officially informed you about this. You can support us in the voting as well."
Zaman, Ramallah
3 May 2005
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3 May 2005
By Mustafa Unal
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