ATHENS - Turkish Foreign Minister & Chief Negotiator for EU talks Ali Babacan said Tuesday that five new confidence building measures between Turkey and Greece are the proof of joint will to further relations between the two countries.
"The prime objective of my visit to Greece is to strengthen existing friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries and to build new bridges together," Babacan told a joint press conference with his Greek counterpart Theodora Bakoyianni.
"I am pleased to see that both sides have the vigorous will to advance dialogue and cooperation. Five new confidence building measures between the two countries that have been announced are the proof of our joint will to further this process," Babacan said.
Babacan also pointed out Greek support to Turkey`s bid to joint the EU and said, "we are satisfied with this support. We expect it to continue and grow stronger."
"Dialogue process between Turkey and Greece has now turned into a partnership following important steps taken. Recent developments in several sectors such as energy, trade, banking, tourism and transportation are the clear signs of it," he added.
Underscoring growing economic and commercial relations between Turkey and Greece, Babacan said trade volume between the two countries is expected to exceed 2 billion USD this year.
"There are 300 Greek companies that have investments in Turkey. They have invested over 4.3 billion USD in our country. These impressive figures are the indicators of mutual trust," Babacan said.
"Turkey and Greece are aware that friendly relations based on mutual respect and confidence are essential not only for the two countries but also for regional peace, security and stability," he concluded.