Babacan visits Debt-Stricken Greece

Economy Minister Ali Babacan yesterday set off for an official visit to Athens. While talks about Greece's debt problem are not officially part of his trip, the visit will still be closely watched. In a statement, Babacan's office said Babacan's visit will focus on preparations for the first meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council between Turkey and Greece in two weeks. Babacan will meet with Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou, Finance Minister George Papaconstantinou, Economy, Competitiveness and Mercantile Marine Minister Louka Katseli, and Alternate Foreign Minister Dimitris Droutsas. Babacan will return to Turkey today after delivering a speech at a conference hosted by The Economist magazine.