Distinguished Members of The American - Turkish Council,

         I am glad to know that you have come together once again for exchanging information, discussing essential matters and establishing forward steps in order to increase the relations between the United States and Turkey.

         Turkey and the United States have traditionally been allies for a very long time. This deeply rooted relationship has turned into a strategic partnership that has proven to be vital for our mutual interests in the realms of security, politics and economics.

         While the extent of our involvement varies in different spheres of our relationship, one key element has always remained the same; and that is mutual trust. With that, we believe we can explore more areas of cooperation. In this context, I believe, these conferences, which are conducted by this organization, constitute appropriate platforms for this purpose.

         I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the esteemed members of this successful and distinguished organization for their valuable contributions to carrying out and developing positive relations between the United States and Turkey.

         Taking this opportunity, I would like to say a few words on the bicentennial of the establishment of West Point.

         West Point, as "the oldest continuously occupied military post in America," has the long held tradition of producing some of the best military men and women for the service of their country. In the bicentennial of the establishment of this distinguished institution, the tradition lives on.

         We know that the U.S. Military Academy at West Point has set the standards for training of officers, many of whom became leaders in different levels of military and government. This is, of course, something to be very proud of. It also sets the example for future dedicated servicemen - and women.

         We are also happy to send cadets to West Point from Turkey, where both the American and Turkish cadets begin their education with time honoured common values of "commitment to duty, honour and country." It is these values that contribute to the success of the military academies as well as to the success of the military establishments in both countries.

         In the bicentennial of the U.S. military academy at West Point, I would like to stress that there is no doubt this remarkable institution will keep leading the way in recruiting, training, and producing the remarkable men and women who will contribute to peace in our future.

         Thank you.