Brent Scowcroft, chairman of the American-Turkish Council, and his successor Richard L. Armitage are in the Turkish capital for talks with Turkish officials.

Retiring Chairman Brent Scowcroft will be succeeded as chairman by Ambassador Richard L. Armitage, President of Armitage International. Armitage will begin his service as chairman, January 1, 2010.

Scowcroft and Armitage will meet with Turkish President Abdullah Gul, State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul, and Energy Minister Taner Yildiz.

The two have appeared at a news conference on Monday prior to their talks in Ankara.

Scowcroft said it was his last visit to Ankara as chairman. He said relations with Turkey were very important for the United States and also pointed out the strategic importance of Turkey for his country.


AA