We learned that on 22 March , 2000 one of the Turkish fishing boats in the Black Sea was sank by Ukrainan coast guard vessels, killing one unidentified Turkish fisherman. The remaining boats and crewmen including one wounded were seized and taken to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian officials informed the Turkish side that survivingTurkish citizens were in good health and the wounded one was under the necessary medical treatment.

Turkey is deeply saddened by this incident that resulted in the loss of life and material damage.

Ukranian Ambassador in Ankara was summoned to the Ministry today to convey the Turkish views and demands about the incident. The Ambassador was asked that fisherman and their boats be released immediately while their right to seek compensation is reserved and the wounded be looked after properly. He was also informed that the act led to loss of life was not acceptable in view of the international law and bilateral agreements.

Furthermore,Ukrainian Foreign Minister Boris Taraysuk called the Turkish Foreign Minister and conveyed his deep sorrow and condolences. Ukranian Minister also proposed holding of an an immediate meeting between the relevant authorites of two countries in Kiev to avoid such further events and expressed his wish that this unforunate event would not adversely affect the improving bilateral relations.

Turkish Foreign Minister told his counterpart that using force against our fishermen would not be acceptable and underlined that this kind of incidents should be handled with humanitarian approaches. The Minister also asked the Ukranian side to take all measures to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents and confirmed that Turkey stands ready for cooperation.