Mohammed bin Zayed holds talks with Turkish President

Feb 29, 2012 (WAM) - Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces General His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Turkish President Abdullah Gul held discussions on Tuesday on ways to strengthen bilateral relations between UAE and Turkey. They reviewed the excellent friendly ties between the two countries and their peoples in the light of the diligence of both sides to bolster relations in various avenues. A number of regional and international developments and topics of common concern also came up for discussion. Gul welcomed Sheikh Mohammed and the accompanying delegation at the Presidential Palace in Ankara and stressed that the visit embodies the mutual keenness of the leadership of both countries to bolster and expand the bilateral ties between them to serve the interests of both the people. Sheikh Mohammed, leading a delegation, is touring Turkey at an invitation from the Turkish President. Sheikh Mohammed conveyed to Gul, the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as well as his good wishes for the welfare of the people of Turkey. He also asserted that the recent visit by Turkish President Abdullah Gul to the UAE paved the way towards added cooperation and gave a strong impetus to the growing ties between the two countries and their friendly relations. Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of continuing consultation and bilateral coordination between the two countries for their mutual welfare. He also underlined the need for the exchange of visits between them as well as the boosting of bilateral trade and investment. This will strengthen the strategic partnership, especially as the UAE and Turkish economies are characterised by growth and development, the Crown Prince said. He also expressed deep gratitude to the Turkish President for his noble invitation to visit Turkey, adding that the warm welcome and reception reflected the depth of the distinguished relations between UAE and Turkey. - Emirates News Agency, WAM