ANKARA: French P.M. Fillon Stressed That Historians Must Decide On I

FRENCH P.M. FILLON STRESSED THAT HISTORIANS MUST DECIDE ON INCIDENTS OF 1915, GUL

Turkish Press
Nov 27 2007

PARIS – Turkish President Abdullah Gul said Tuesday that, according
to French Prime Minister Francois Fillon, it is historians, not
politicians who must decide on the Armenian allegations regarding
the incidents of 1915.

Gul talked to press members at Turkish Embassy in Paris where he
travelled to promote Aegean province of Izmir’s bid to host EXPO 2015.

"EXPO organizations attract millions of tourists and great
investments," Gul noted.

"If Izmir hosts the EXPO 2015, this would contribute to the promotion
of Izmir, the Aegean region and whole of Turkey," Gul told.

"The theme of Izmir’s EXPO is health. Health is a matter of interest
to both rich and poor nations," Gul stressed.

"The government, opposition and non-governmental organizations in
Turkey give full support to Izmir to host the EXPO 2015. I hope that
Izmir will be granted the right to host EXPO 2015 in March 2008,"
Gul underlined.

Gul said that the French Prime Minister Fillon discussed many issues
including bilateral relations, Turkey’s EU process, Armenian problem
and terror.

In reference to his upcoming visit to Pakistan, Gul indicated that
"Pakistan is a very friendly and brotherly country for Turkey. We
will visit Pakistan to provide support to them."

Asked if the topic of Mediterranean Union project of French President
Nicolas Sarkozy came up during his meeting with Fillon, Gul responded
that the project was not very much discussed.

Gul underscored that France defines PKK as a terrorist organization.

"PM Fillon assured us that France will do everything possible to help
Turkey in its fight against terrorism," Gul added.