ANKARA (AP) - A US special envoy for countering the autonomy-seeking Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, arrived in Ankara yesterday to discuss measures toward eliminating rebel bases in northern Iraq.

Retired Gen Joseph Ralston, a former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, was scheduled to meet with his Turkish counterpart, former Gen Edip Baser, as well as Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul and other officials during his two-day visit. It is Ralston’s second visit to Turkey since his appointment in August.

Turkey has long been pressing the United States to crack down on rebel bases in northern Iraq, across the border from Turkey.

His appointment was a sign that the US government is giving higher priority to Turkish concerns about the PKK presence in Iraq. It followed repeated veiled threats from Turkey that it could take action against the PKK in Iraq.

The US has warned Turkey against pursuing the rebels into northern Iraq, fearing an incursion would alienate Iraqi Kurds, the most pro-American group in the region.

In an interview with NTV television late Tuesday, Baser would not elaborate on measures he would discuss with Ralston but said the steps would not be “immediately visible” and urged patience. Baser said there were several ways to combat terrorism, including cutting off all political, financial and logistical support.

Ralston said during a visit last month that military action against the PKK would be the last option to consider.