June 29, 2001

   India and Turkey today signed an Extradition Treaty to combat terrorism. The treaty which has added a new dimension to Indo-Turkey relations provides for the extradition of criminals who may be taking shelter in either country.

    The visiting Home Minister, Shri L.K. Advani signed the treaty on behalf of India while Justice Minister of Turkey, Mr. Hikmet Sami Turk signed on that country’s behalf. The extradition is to be granted in respect of offences punishable under the law of both the countries by imprisonment of a minimum of one year. With the signing of this Treaty which is similar to the extradition treaties singed by New Delhi with other countries, India has taken one more step towards ensuring that criminals and offenders are not able to take sanctuary abroad.

    Earlier, the Home Minister, Shri L.K. Advani held discussions with the Turkish Minister for Interior, Mr. Rustu Kazim Yucelen followed by delegation talks between the two sides. There was a convergence of views between the two countries on issues of vital importance. They were of the view that there could be no justification for terrorism in any form and both countries agreed to cooperate in fighting the menace with all the resources at their command. The two countries also agreed to cooperate in fighting trans-national organized crimes, money laundering, drug-trafficking and trafficking in human beings. The cooperation will include exchange of information, cooperation between the respective agencies of the two nations and exchange of experts. The close convergence of views on terrorism is of special significance considering the respective experience of both the countries. The agreement is all the more significant considering its timing.

    In the talks preceding the signing of the treaty by Shri Advani and Mr. Hikmet Sami Turk, both the countries again took the opportunity to condemn terrorism in all its forms. The two sides also took note and condemned the fact that some states were sponsoring terrorism.