President set to visit Turkey
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will go on a state visit to Turkey before proceeding to London and Saudi Arabia.
Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said Arroyo will leave Manila on September 16 and will pass Turkey upon the invitation of Turkish President Abdullah Gul.
Remonde said while in Turkey, Arroyo will seek to expand bilateral relations with the country that is perceived as the “gateway to Europe” and seek its support for observer status with the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC).
The Philippines and Turkey celebrated the 60th anniversary of their bilateral relations last June 13. Trade between the two countries as of end of 2007 was placed at $236 million.
The Philippines’ economic diplomacy plan with Turkey last year included the establishment of a joint business council, showcasing Philippine products, sending a Turkish business delegation to the Philippines, promoting the Philippines as Turkey’s gateway to the Asia-Pacific region, and increasing tourism arrivals from Turkey. (more)
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