Turkish PM calls for consolidation of relations with Morocco

Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, called on, in Ankara Monday, for the consolidation of cooperation with Morocco, saying different accords are due to be signed between the two countries.

Erdogan, who is expected in Morocco Wednesday for a two-day official visit, told the press at the airport as he was leaving to Tunisia, that means to reinforce economic relations will be the focus of his talks with Tunisian and Moroccan officials.

The Turkish Premier described Morocco and Tunisia as "important countries" in the Arab and Islamic world, in the Mediterranean basin and in Africa.

After he recalled the increase of trade exchanges between Turkey and the two Arab countries in 2003 and 2004, he noted that the Free Trade Accords (FTA) signed with Morocco, then with Tunisia, are an important step in his country's relations with them.

Erdogan deemed that the entry into force of the FTAs will give a new impetus to economic relations.

He added that his visit will be an occasion to exchange viewpoints on issues of common interests and on bilateral cooperation.

The Turkish premier is leading a 45-strong delegation in his visit, comprising notably Industry and Trade Minister, Ali Coskun, deputies and businesspersons.