WASHINGTON D.C., March 18 (A.A) - President Ahmet Necdet Sezer sent a message to the 21st annual conference of the American-Turkish Council (ATC) in Washington D.C.
In his message, President Sezer said, ''friendly relations between Turkey and the United States have changed into strategical partnership during the Cold War era and ensuing difficult period. This partnership has became a guarantee for peace and stability in the Caucasus, Central Asia and the Middle East. What has changed cooperation based on defense till collapse of bipolar era into a comprehensive cooperation based on the shared ideals and principles? Although the unique cooperation in Korea 50 years ago created a close cooperation and solidarity between Turkish and American peoples, determination of Turkey and the United States in fight against terrorism in the wake of the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, will be remembered as the latest manifestation of sound cooperation between the two countries.''
Expressing his pride over the level of cooperation and partnership between Turkey and the United States, President Sezer noted, ''recently, commercial and economic relations between our countries have diversified and improved as a result of contribution of ATC, Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) and business circles.''
''I believe that the ATC which has been organizing economic, commercial and cultural activities between Turkey and the United States, would maintain its efforts in the future,'' he added.