Kuwait Times

Published Date: April 05, 2007

ANKARA:  His Highness the Prime Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan affirmed yesterday the depth of ties between the two nations. During a joint press conference after official talks that included bilateral affairs and arising developments, Erdogan expressed pleasure over the Premier's visit, stressing the role of cooperation and coordination in all fields.

Turkey is very interested in boosting ties with Kuwait, noted Erdogan who said the talks included exchanging views regarding a number of matters and means to boost ties in a manner that serves both sides.

He noted that Kuwaiti-Turkish ties were distinguished at all levels, and Kuwait is a very valuable valued and important friend, adding that these ties were noticeably boosted by increasing Kuwaiti investments in Turkey.

Both nations are doing their best to develop cooperation, a number of joint accords were signed and regional developments were discussed, he said.
Erdogan said the two nations share similar views regarding critical regional issues, such as Palestine and Iraq.

Asked about Kuwaiti-Turkish commercial ties, Erdogan said they were good but more is hoped, noting that Kuwaiti investors had recently purchased a major commercial mall in Istanbul.

He stressed the role of the expanded meeting about Iraq expected to be held in Turkey as it will group Iraq's neighbouring nations, the US and UN. He expressed optimism over the forum's outcome, adding it was agreed to hold this forum with six nations.

Sheikh Nasser said the talks were productive and fruitful as they emphasized boosting the already deeply rooted overall ties. The talks also handled regional and international developments of joint interest, he added. -- Kuna