Gantz meets Turkish counterpart: ‘A clear signal for positive developments ahead’

Defense Minister Benny Gantz meets with his Turkish counterpart, Hulusi Akar, in Ankara, ahead of a meeting with the country’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In a statement following their meeting, Gantz says “it is no secret that our ties have faced challenges,” but that the landmark trip, the first in a decade, is a “clear signal for positive developments ahead.”

“I am glad to say that Turkey is one of our top five trading partners. Over the years, our economic ties have grown,” Gantz says.

“On the diplomatic front, the return of our ambassadors has set the stage for us today. In fact, my visit to Ankara is the third by an Israeli leader in less than a year. The gates have opened and there is great potential for cooperation in trade, tourism, industry and more,” he says.

“Turkey and Israel have both built modern, advanced societies on a foundation rich in history. Our future is promising, yet dependent on our shared interest to maintain security and stability in the region and the world.” he continues.

“I believe a lot more can be done together in order to reduce the influence of those who destabilize our regions, by supporting or conducting terrorism against innocent civilians,” Gantz adds.

Gantz notes Israel’s ties with Turkish rivals Greece and Cyprus, before saying that “moving forward, we must adopt a steady, positive approach in our relations, maintaining open dialogue.”

The trip is aimed at renewing official defense relations between the two countries.