Egyptian-Turkish relations, strong

In his interview with Al Ahram daily of February 18, Turkish President Suleiman Demirel described relations binding Egypt and Turkey as deep-rooted.

He voiced deep appreciation to President Hosni Mubarak's constructive role in defusing crisis between Turkey and Syria and in containing the October-1998 tension between the two countries. Demirel, further, hailed President MubarakÌs firm stances on issues of common interests.

"The high-level visits paid over the past years have contributed much to cementing the already deep-entrenched relations between Cairo and Ankara," said Demirel, expounding that such relations are based on unshakable foundations.

The Turkish President said that the Egyptian-Turkish trade exchange hit some $one billion, even before starting the implementation of the free trade zone agreement. This, according to Demirel clearly demonstrates that there is a great opportunity for stronger trade partnership between the two countries.

Demirel stressed that Egypt's distinguished position in the Arab world, together with its strong relations with the African nations, open the door wide before boosting economic relations with Africa.

He said that the Egyptian-Turkish free trade zone is deemed to be an excellent tool to strengthen economic relations between the two countries. This agreement, expounded Demirel, would create wider vistas for cooperation in several emerging sectors; textiles, iron and steel, food processing.

Turkey, added Demirel, attached great importance to the implementation of the agreement as soon as possible. "Turkish people will never forget Egypt's stance in dealing with the earthquake plight that hit Turkey," he concluded.