Turkey To Woo More Malaysians

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 2 (Bernama) -- Turkey will continue to woo more Malaysians by highlighting the many fascinating aspects of the country especially its landscape, historical heritage of civilisations and culture. In a statement Thursday, the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ICOC) said the number of Malaysians visiting Turkey was encouraging with 36,222 arrivals in 2011, an increase of 12 per cent from 32,456 in 2010. "Malaysians were the second highest in this region to visit Turkey in 2011, with Indonesians being the highest with 40,282 arrivals," it said. Turkish Ambassador to Malaysia, Serap Attay, said many aspects of Turkey, especially its culture, delicacies and the business opportunities offered, were yet to be fully appreciated by the locals. "The Turkish Embassy here, together with other Turkish agencies and organisations, will continue to organise more events in Malaysia to highlight many attractions and opportunities offered by Turkey," she said. On bilateral relations, Ataay said, they had been progressing in every field. "Turkish Prime Minister’s visit to Malaysia and the signing of free trade agreement constitute our priorities for this year and I foresee the relations will widen and deepen in the years to come," she said. She said the ICOC would be organising the third Turkish Products Exhibition at the KL Convention Centre between March 1-3, 2012 to improve business ties between the two countries. "About 70 Turkish companies will be participating to showcase a wide range of products. "This is a must-visit for anyone looking for new business opportunities in Turkey," she said. -- BERNAMA