§ Mr. ElletsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement about the effect on United Kingdom interests of Turkish diplomatic and commercial activity in central Asia.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggWe are aware of the high level of Turkish commercial activity in central Asia. British companies are also looking at investment opportunities in the region. Some British companies are considering the merits of forming joint ventures with Turkish companies, as John Laing already has with the Turkish contracting company, Alarko, in the redevelopment of Ashkabad airport. We welcome the diplomatic influence that Turkey can bring to bear in central Asia in helping those states to develop free market democracy.