MGK reaffirms determination to keep up pressure on terrorist PKK

The National Security Council (MGK), chaired by President Abdullah Gul, yesterday convened at the Cankaya Presidential Palace ahead of August's Supreme Military Council (YAS) meeting, where key armed forces personnel decisions will be made. According to a statement released after the six-hour meeting, Energy Minister Hilmi Guler briefed the council about Turkey's energy policies. Talks in Baghdad by Murat Ozcelik, Turkey's deputy special representative in Iraq, were also discussed during the gathering. The statement added that the MGK reaffirmed its determination to maintain measures to counter the terrorist PKK. Cooperation with the Iraqi government as part of Turkey's national interest will also contribute to the stability of Iraq and the region, it said. Maximum use should be made of domestic and renewable energy sources, it urged, and energy cooperation with neighboring countries should be strengthened so Turkey has an important role as a transit country and also as one developing nuclear energy.