By Cigdem Alyanak, Kenan Irtak and Hatice Senses Kurukız
ISTANBUL (AA) – President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday vowed to enhance bilateral ties with African countries prior to his official five-day tour to African countries.
Speaking at a news conference at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Erdogan said Turkey considers Algeria as a powerful trade ally.
“We would like to cement our relations in several fields, including military, defense industry and cultural areas, based on friendship and cooperation…,” he said.
Jerusalem, Syria and Libya issues would be discussed during the visit, he added.
The president is expected to hold talks with his counterparts in Algeria, Mauritania, Senegal and Mali during one-on-one and inter-delegation meetings.
Erdogan said security issues would also top the agenda during the meetings.
He also praised African countries for taking steps against the Fetulah Terrorist Organization (FETO).
“Thanks to our efforts many countries have now shut down the FETO-affiliated schools and handed them over to the Maarif Foundation.”
He also said Turkey wants to further enhance its close relations with Senegal; a new project would be initiated to boost trade and economic relations between the two countries.
He said Turkey wishes to revive its centuries-old ties with Mali.
Erdogan’s visit to Algeria will be the second presidential trip to the country; also, this will be the first time the president will visit Mauritania and Mali.
After Algeria, Erdogan will head to Mauritania on Feb. 28, followed by Senegal and Mali.
Last December, Erdogan paid a four-day visit to Sudan, Chad and Tunisia.
Since 2004, Erdogan has paid official visits to 24 African countries and witnessed the signing of numerous bilateral pacts.
