Talabani sends condolences to Turkish president

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Iraqi President Jalal Talabani sent a telegram of condolences to Turkish President Abdulla Gul today, expressing his sorrow for the earthquake that hit southeast Turkey and led to great number of casualties. Global news agencies reported that an earthquake measuring a magnitude of 7.3 hit Van province, near the Iranian border, resulting in extensive damage. Turkish reports estimate that 500-1000 persons have been killed in the earthquake. RM (TP)/SR 15