MGK reiterates determination to continue fight against terrorism

The National Security Council (MGK), chaired by President Abdullah Gul, yesterday convened at the Cankaya Presidential Palace, along with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Deputy Prime Ministers Cemil Cicek and Hayati Yazici, and Foreign Minister Ali Babacan. Attending the MGK for the first time in their new posts were Chief of General Staff Gen. Ilker Basbug, Land Forces Commander Gen. Isık Kosaner and Gendarmerie Commander Gen. Atila Isik. According to an official statement, the meeting focused on such issues as the fight against the terrorist PKK at home and abroad, recent talks with the northern Iraqi regional administration, Turkey's recent election to a temporary seat on the UN Security Council, and Ankara's role in promoting peace and stability in the Caucasus. In the statement, the MGK reaffirmed its determination to maintain measures against the terrorist PKK and its supporters, who try to harm public order, unity, solidarity, peace and confidence. "In light of recent developments in Iraq, the gathering also discussed measures to counter and prevent terrorist PKK attacks, stressing the importance of Iraqi territory not being used by terrorist groups," the council said. The statement underlined that the PKK's goals will be frustrated and that the Turkish people will maintain their common sense. "Fighting terrorism will continue with determination through effective cooperation between all state institutions, and the MGK also backed the government's decision to form a new body to strengthen coordination in the fight against terrorism," it added. The council called for everyone to act responsibly, arguing that unfair accusations against the security forces, which have been fighting terrorism with great success, serve nothing but the aims of the terrorist PKK and its supporters.