Turkish FM: Coop in Central Asia, Caucasia a delayed initiative

"We hope the relations will be further improved. Actually, this is a delayed initiative," Davutoglu said while speaking at a tv channel.

Davutoglu is currently in Istanbul to attend the 10th summit meeting of heads of state and government of the Turkish Speaking Countries which will take place in Istanbul in September 15-16.

Davutoglu said the meeting which had taken place last year on October 3 was a landmark as the participants had decided to establish a Turkish Speaking countries Cooperation Council. "This year's summit indicates for the first time that the council has been established," he said.

Davutoglu said former summits were unofficial, "but now a council has been established and the summit has gained an institutional structure. Secretariat of the council will be in Istanbul and Halil Akinci, Turkey's former Ambassador in Moscow, will be the secretary general of the council," he said.

Davutoglu said Turkmenistan was invited to the meeting this year, "a foundation will be established in Baku within the scope of the council to preserve Turkish Cultural Heritage. Again within the scope of the council, a Turkish Academy was founded in Astana," he said.

"Turkish Business Council will also be established. Business links will be planned among Turkish Speaking countries. Formation of Insurance and Development Bank is also on the agenda," Davutoglu said.

Asked to comment on relations between Turkey and Azerbaijan, Davutoglu referred to the importance of the agreement which will be signed between the two countries today and noted that, "Turkey has been developing High Level Strategic Cooperation mechanism with neighboring countries. This will also be made with Azerbaijan."

Davutoglu said a common cabinet would convene with Azerbaijan soon, "Azerbaijan is important for us. Now, we want to establish one nation two states government structure. Turkey's integration with Azerbaijan will broaden gradually."

"Meetings will be held with energy ministries of the two countries. Relations with Russia are also very well. Similar meetings also take place with them," Davutoglu noted.


/World Bulletin/