DINNER HONORING SENATOR PHIL GRAM

AK Party Vice Chairman Egemen Bagis gave a dinner at the Turkish Grand National Assembly on 24th of June 2008, honoring Mr. Phil Gramm, UBS Bank Vice Chairman, former Texas Senator, former Chairman of USA Senate Budget Commission and former US presidential candidate

Bagis said that Gramm has always been close to Turkey during his political career. He further mentioned that Gramm has always supported Turkey for international organizations and investment issues. Bagis stated "You have brought turkey new investment and employment areas. We thank you for your friendship".

Bagis continued "Senator Gram is not only my personal friend but he is also a friend of Turkey and Turkish people. We will never forget his attitude against the so called Armenian genocide Bill and his important influence on the US governments where he has always been positive and supportive for Turkey. Republican Senator Gram is an experienced and wise politician whom his party frequently asks for his advice. I am proud to be hosting him".

Phil Gramm said "Egemen Bagis is a young politician who attracts attention" and said that his first visit to Turkey was on 1985 and he liked Turkey and Turkish people very much and by time this connection got stronger.

Gramm continued to state "Turkey is one of the most important friends of Turkey. Turkey's place in NATO is very important. We have brought and we will continue bringing Turkey incredible big investments."

AK Party Vice Chairman Mr. Reha Denemec, CHP Istanbul Deputy Mr. Sukru Elekdag, MHP Istanbul Deputy Mr. Mithat Melen, Turkish Central Bank Chairman Mr. Durmus Yilmaz, Turkish Central Bank Vice Chairman Mr. Ibrahim Turhan, UK Ambassador Hon. Nick Baird and Undersecretary of the Political Section of United States Embassy Political Ms. Janice Wayner also attended the dinner.