Statements by U.S. Officials

Senator Mel Martinez’s Statements to the Press

Following the Meeting with Prime Minister Erdogan

January 7, 2008

Good evening to all of you, my name is Mel Martinez and I’m a United States Senator representing the state of Florida. I’m delighted to be with you tonight as snow is falling. In the state of Florida, we don’t usually have snow. Let me say that we have just concluded a meeting with the prime minister, which was very useful and in the spirit of great friendship.

We covered a number of issues that are of great interest to both of our countries. Certainly, I would say we highlighted the common threat of terrorism. President Bush and Prime Minister Erdogan in their Nov 5th meeting made a very comprehensive statement about our mutual understanding of the threat of terror. And I think that will be only enhanced by the meetings tomorrow between our presidents as they meet at the White House in Washington.

We generally discussed issues as broad-ranging as energy and mutual concerns about the availability and cost of energy to our countries, as well as many other ways in which we can cooperate. We expressed our gratitude to the Turkish government for the cooperation with NATO and the many areas in which they have participated with great distinction. It was a very cordial and friendly meeting and one I think will enhance the friendship that continues to deepen between our two countries.