With Gul's visit, Turkey eyes expanding cooperation with Yemen

President Abdullah Gul arrived in Yemen yesterday for a two-day visit expected to help deepen bilateral political and economic ties. Gul, the first Turkish president to visit Yemen, is accompanied by three government ministers and a large business delegation. The two countries are expected to sign 10 agreements, including one to eliminate visa requirements for their nationals, as well as pacts for cooperation in such areas as consular affairs, criminal extradition, management of industrial areas, media and education, according to Yemeni news reports. An agreement to establish a Turkey-Yemen business council is also to be signed. Gul is the guest of Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh. Speaking before the visit, Gul said he would discuss all regional and international issues concerning both countries, as well as economic cooperation. "Turkey has special ties with Yemen, based on shared history and cultural affinity," he added. "Both sides have the will to expand and deepen these ties." Pointing to the growing business ties, Gul said Turkish firms have undertaken projects worth $1.5 billion in Yemen over the past eight years. "The businessmen accompanying me will have talks with their Yemeni counterparts and review new opportunities for cooperation," said Gul. During his visit, Gul will also inaugurate a Turkish-Yemeni vocational high school and a renovated cemetery for fallen Ottoman soldiers.