MGK: Turkey will continue cross- border ops in Northern Iraq

The National Security Council (MGK), chaired by President Abdullah Gul, yesterday convened at the Cankaya Presidential Palace. The Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) will continue to carry out cross-border operations into northern Iraq as long as necessary, according to a statement released after the meeting. In the statement, the MGK reaffirmed its determination to maintain measures against the activities of the terrorist group and its supporters, which aim to harm public order, unity and solidarity, and peace and confidence. �The council also discussed measures by our security forces to preserve security and peace and order throughout the country," said the statement. The MGK said its members had discussed Turkey's expectations and sensitivities regarding Iraq and underlined the importance of Iraq's territorial integrity and political unity. �Taking into consideration recent positive developments in Iraq, we talked about improving our political, economic, commercial, cultural, military and energy cooperation with this neighboring country and increasing humanitarian aid to it," said the council. The MGK also reviewed other foreign developments, including ones concerning Kosovo and Cyprus. Afterwards, Gul met with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.