EGEMEN BAGIS VISITS THE USA WITH PRIME MINISTER ERDOGAN

The summit in White House

Prime Minister Erdogan visited President Bush on October 2nd, 2006 with a small delegation including Egemen Bagis.

Noting that the meeting was extended to almost two hours, Bagis noted that the summit was held in a very warm and friendly atmosphere. "In my Prime Minister's words, 'The meeting was positive and useful'" commented Bagis. "President Bush was very kind in inviting Prime Minister Erdogan to the White House. This meeting was very friendly and useful because both parties knew what they wanted. I also observed that many things, like the shadow of the March 1st decision, were not in the way anymore."

"President Bush called Mr. Erdogan 'a friend and a man of peace'. That's an indicator of the context and the friendliness of the meeting. Turkey's accession to the EU was discussed. The President clearly indicated that it was in EU's benefit and interest to have Turkey in the union. Mr. President also applauded us for the dedication we've shown for the reforms in Turkey."

"Prime Minister Erdogan explained our sensitivities regarding the Turkish Republic of Cyprus. He also shared our observations, opinions and recommendations on issues like Lebanon and the Greater Middle East Peace Project. Global terrorism was also discussed in depth. Mr. Bush commented that support Turkey has been giving in the Middle East peace initiatives was commendable. Possibilities of further collaboration between the two countries were further discussed in depth."

"President Bush gracefully listened and personally took notes on some issues. This was definitely the most useful summit. Mr. Bush himself raised the issue on Darfour and thanked us for our continued interest and humanitarian support there."

Commenting on the PKK issue, Bagis noted that Prime Minister Erdogan did not want to mention any names and publicly advertise any terrorist organization.

Before the summit, on Sunday, Prime Minister Erdogan had also made a speech at the Georgetown University at "Turkey's Vision for Global Peace and Justice Conference" honoring him as the keynote speaker.

Prime Minister Erdogan, along with his delegation including Egemen Bagis visited Prime Minister Tony Blair in London on their way back from the US.