Turkish President Abdullah Gül has left for China on Tuesday, June 23, for a 7-day official visit in order to take up bilateral relations. Gül’s visit to four Chinese cities appears to be the first presidential contact between Turkey and China since 1995. Underlining that the commercial relations between two countries are not at the expected level, President Gül said this visit will be a milestone in terms of economic ties.

Speaking to reporters at Ankara Esenboğa Airport, President Gül drew attention to the fact that “Turkey and China have not realized their potentials yet”. Gül briefly illustrated current bilateral trade volume that China has only invested $60 million last year in Turkey while her investment in the world has become around $100 billion. Turkey’s total investment in Chine appears to be more than this figures as $100 million. Due to these facts, President Gül said he is accompanied by distinguished businessmen and chairmen of business associations during the visit.

The President’s visit comprises four Chinese cities in a seven-day schedule.

The President’s plane landed Beijing International Airport at 06:40 Turkish local time. President Gül and First Lady Hayrunnisa Gül were welcomed by Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Zhai Jun, China’s ambassador to Turkey Gong Xiaosheng and Turkey’s ambassador to China Murat Salim Esenli.

President Gül is scheduled to meet Turkish businessmen in China at 13:00 and to attend lunch at the Turkish Embassy.

Gül met Turkish businessmen in China

President Gül met Turkish businessmen who have investments in China at the first day of his official visit. Gül’s visit aims at extending economic relations between the two countries.

Currently bilateral trade volume between Turkey and China is $15.6 billion. Turkey’s share in this amount is only $1,6 billion.

President Gül appeared as a guest on TRT’s live program, commenting on Iran’s presidential elections

The President became a guest on TRT program on the first day of his official visit to China, saying that “Iran’s stability is important for us”. Gül said further that “Turkey expects Iran to ensure stability in the country and resolve its problems with no harm to internal peace; because instability at a neighboring country concerns Turkey; of course with no interference into its internal affairs”.

There will be an official welcoming ceremony for President Gül tomorrow.trt

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