NATO CHIEF CALLS FOR 'IMMEDIATE' RELEASE OF TURKISH HOSTAGES IN IRAQ

NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen (Image: AA)

Ankara, 18 Sha’ban 1435/16 June 2014 (MINA) – The NATO chief, Anders Fogh Rasmussen condemned Wednesday’s attack on the Turkish consulate in Mosul and called for the immediate release of the 49 kidnapped Turkish Consulate staff in a meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu in Ankara on Monday.

“We want to see all the Turkish hostages released and we want to see them safe,” Rasmussen told reporters following the meeting, Anadolu Agency quoted by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA) as reporting.

“Nothing can justify this criminal act and we will continue to consult with our ally Turkey.”

During the seizure last week of key Iraqi city, Mosul, Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL) led militants kidnapped Turkish consulate staff, including the consul-general and family members.

Ahmet Davutoglu thanked Rasmussen for his support and the solidarity he has shown for the Turkish abductees in Mosul.

He also praised Rasmussen’s support for the deployment of patriot missile batteries in southern Turkey set to intercept possible attacks from Syria.

“We are now facing serious challenges in a wide geographic area from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea and the Baltic,” Davutoglu added urging further cooperation within NATO.

During his visit, Rasmussen is scheduled to meet both President Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan concerning the attack on the Turkish Consulate in Mosul. (T/P09/P04)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)