Turkey's Defence Ministry has reached an agreement with the US on troop deployment ahead of a crucial government vote on the issue. The US wants to base 62,000 troops, aircraft and helicopters in Turkey in the event of military action against neighbouring Iraq. They would be used to open up a second front, which analysts say would shorten any war and limit casualties. In return for its cooperation, America is offering Turkey $24bn worth of aid. Defence Minister Vecdi Gonul said: "Agreement is complete on the military issues. All that's being discussed is at what level (the deal) will be signed."
Signature of Bush would do
The aid package, which will be debated by the Turkish parliament later, follows weeks of sensitive talks. Despite sharp divisions within the ruling Justice and Development Party, it is almost certain to be accepted. The deal will plug the last major gap in Washington's planning for military action against Saddam Hussein. Turkey will use the $24bn in grants and loan guarantees from the US to cushion its frail economy against the impact of war. It plans to send 40,000 troops into a border buffer zone in northern Iraq but insists they will not become involved in any fighting. It says they will only marshall the expected flood of refugees and protect the Turkish minority in the Kurdish-controlled region. Baghdad has said a decision by Turkey to allow US troops on its soil would amount to it joining hostilities. |