BEIRUT - Turkish and Lebanese businessmen met under the chairmanship of Turkish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri of Lebanon with the aim of further developing commercial relations between Turkey and Lebanon.
Replying to questions of journalists following the meeting, Gul, who is currently in Lebanese capital Beirut on an official visit, said on Saturday, ''the meeting focused on methods to further develop commercial and economic relations between the two countries. Both Turkish and Lebanese businessmen are willing to make joint investments in the third countries.''
Meanwhile, sources told the A.A correspondent that the necessary ground for signing of a free trade agreement between Turkey and Lebanon would be shaped during Gul's visit.
The agreement is expected to be signed during a high-level visit between the two countries in the coming months.
(UK) 03.07.2004