JERUSALEM (AA) - Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul met Israeli Premier Ariel Sharon on Tuesday.
Prior to the meeting, Gul told reporters, ''I am pleased to be in Israel. I am optimistic about Middle East peace process. There is a new climate in the region.''
Noting, ''all sides should participate in peace process,'' Gul said, ''we hope a new progress will be recorded in the peace process. Steps taken by Prime Minister Sharon's government in recent period are also pleasing.''
Meanwhile, Sharon said, ''we are pleased to host Gul. Two countries have good and sound relations besides strong cooperation in various areas.''
''I am sure Gul's visit will contribute not only to efforts of strengthening of bilateral relations, but also to settlement of stability in the region,'' added Sharon.
Gul met Israeli First Deputy Prime Minister Ehud Olmert prior to his meeting with Sharon.
(GC-UK)
2005-01-04