Turkish President Attends Luncheon Given In His Honor By Macedonian Counterpart

SKOPJE - Turkish President Abdullah Gul attended Sunday a luncheon given in his honor by his Macedonian counterpart Branko Crvenkovski at Skopje's Stone Bridge Hotel.
Speaking at the luncheon, Gul said there were many potential cooperation areas between Turkey and Macedonia in trade, tourism and transportation, urging Turkish and Macedonian businesspeople and entrepreneurs to exploit the opportunity.
"Macedonia has a unique place for Turks who have strong historical, cultural and traditional ties with Macedonian people," Gul said, describing the Balkans country as the "closest friend for Turkey."
Gul said Turkey had extended "an active support" for Macedonia's membership in NATO and expressed faith that the country would become a part of the Alliance and the European Union.
Macedonian President Crvenkovski said on his part that his country was committed to take resolute steps to become a member of the NATO and the EU, expressing his appreciation for Turkey's support.
(YMB-EÖ)