Lebanon 'Strategic Partner' To Turkey: Finance Minister

Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek on Wednesday described Lebanon as a "strategic partner" to Turkey, saying that Ankara will seek to boost economic relations with Beirut.



"Lebanon is a very important ally and strategic partner to Turkey," Simsek said following a meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Tammam Salam in Beirut.



He said that Lebanon's stability serves all neighboring countries.



Simsek arrived in Lebanon on Wednesday for a two-day visit to the tiny Arab country.



He said his visit to Lebanon aims to encourage the business community in view of boosting investment and trade between Lebanon and Turkey.



Soon after he arrived in Beirut, Simsek visited the Turkish Cultural Center in the Lebanese capital.



On Thursday, he will participate in a conference by the World Bank on regional integration.



Trade exchange between Turkey and Arab countries amounted to $57 billion in 2013, up from $7 billion only in 2002.



 Turkish exports to Lebanon amounted to around $738 million in 2012, whereas Lebanese exports to Turkey reach around $119 million in the same year, according to the Lebanese customs agency.



By Gad Yateem



englishnews@aa.com.tr



www.aa.com.tr/en - Beyrut