IRAQ/KIRKUK:MFA STATEMENT ON TURKEY'S FACT-FINDING

UNCLAS ANKARA 003948 SIPDIS DEPT FOR NEA/I AND EUR/SE; BAGHDAD ALSO FOR MNF-I E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL MARR PINR TU IZ SUBJECT: IRAQ/KIRKUK:MFA STATEMENT ON TURKEY'S FACT-FINDING MISSION REF: ANKARA 3945 ¶1. The MFA Spokesman made the statement in para 2 to the press on July 14, addressing the Turkish fact-finding delegation that visited Kirkuk July 6-11. (Comment: This statement is calmer in tone than the points the GOT passed to us privately, reftel. End Comment.) ¶2. Begin informal Embassy translation of the MFA press statement: MFA Spokesperson Namik Tan,s Response to a Question Related to the Visit of a Delegation to Kirkuk with the Company of the MFA/Iraq,s Special Deputy Representative As is known, there have been a number of news reports related to speculation about the future of Kirkuk after the war as well as efforts aiming at changing the population structure of the city, which have created unrest and anxiety among Kirkuk residents. Continuation of peace and security in Kirkuk, where groups from various ethnic and religious backgrounds live together, influences Iraq,s stability and internal balances as well as the stability, peace and welfare of the region. Information on the situation in Kirkuk and our sensitivity on the matter were brought to the attention of PUK leader Jalal Talabani during his previous visit to our country. Indicating that he was talking on behalf of other groups in the north, Mr. Talabani suggested that a Turkish delegation should go to Kirkuk for an on-site investigation of the current situation. Therefore, a delegation led by the MFA Deputy Iraq Special Representative and with the participation of representatives from relevant institutions went to Kirkuk in July 6-11, 2004. Our delegation was in intensive contacts with people from all levels of society in Kirkuk, as well as the American and British diplomatic representations there. Our delegation established that there were serious efforts to change the demographic structure of Kirkuk which were supported by construction activities, and that some elements constituting the Iraqi nation were concerned about that situation. Those, who were exposed to forced migration during the previous Iraqi regime, have the right to return back to their old place of residence, if they want. However, we believe that this should be done by public consent in compliance with records and equity and far from discrimination and exploitation, in a regular manner, avoiding fait accompli, after the establishment of a government based on permanent constitution. The mentioned criteria are for Iraq to be peaceful both towards its nation and international community. Turkey will continue monitoring developments in Kirkuk carefully and closely in negotiation with other neighboring countries, and will continue warning the Iraqi Interim Government, international and regional organizations and all relevant parties. end text. DEUTSCH