May 7, 1983
When the military took power in Turkey under conditions of near anarchy in 1980, they
committed themselves to restoring democratic government as soon as possible. The United States
welcomed the timetable they set for carrying out that promise, and we have expressed our support
for each step along the way. I warmly welcome President Evren's recent announcement that
parliamentary elections will be held on November 6, thus completing the process of restoring
democracy. I congratulate the Turkish people for this remarkable achievement and assure them of
the continued support and friendship of the United States Government and people.