Erdogan: Turkish-German University Symbol Of Friendship

Turkey's president expressed hope on Friday that the Turkish-German University in Istanbul would be a symbol of friendship between the two countries.

"We will continue to give all kinds of support to the Turkish-German University," Erdogan stressed at the official opening ceremony for the university's new campus in Istanbul with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Erdogan added that efforts were ongoing to establish a Turkish-Japanese university of science and technology, as well as a Turkish-Italian university.

During the opening ceremony ahead of bilateral talks between the two leaders, Erdogan said they would discuss regional dynamics, regional issues, especially Libya, and two-way relations.

He said chaos in Libya would affect the entire Mediterranean region if peace would not be ensured as soon as possible.

On Jan. 12, parties in Libya announced a cease-fire in response to a joint call by the leaders of Turkey and Russia. But talks for a permanent cease-fire ended without an agreement after Haftar left Moscow without signing the deal.

On Sunday, Haftar accepted terms in Berlin to designate members to a UN-proposed military commission with five members from each side to monitor the implementation of the cease-fire.

Since the ouster of late ruler Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, two seats of power have emerged in Libya: one in eastern Libya supported mainly by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, and the other in Tripoli, which enjoys the UN and international recognition.

Haftar's military offensive against Libya's internationally-recognized government has claimed the lives of more than 1,000 people since April last year.

'Exceptional example of cooperation'

For her part, Angela Merkel also praised efforts towards the Turkish-German University.

"The Turkish-German University is an exceptional example of cooperation, a symbol of the partnership between two countries," said Merkel.

Ankara and Berlin signed an agreement in 2008 to establish the university. -