Turkish FM vows to boost ties with South Sudan

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said on Friday that Turkey attached great importance to developing relations with South Sudan. Davutoglu made the remarks at a joint press conference with his visiting South Sudanese counterpart Nhial Deng Nhial in the Turkish capital of Ankara, saying, "We will continue on our path by developing economic, political and cultural relations with South Sudan on strong foundations." Davutoglu said Nhial's visit to Turkey was a historic moment, adding that Turkey was one of the first countries to recognize South Sudan and that Nakara opened an embassy in Juba last October. The Turkish foreign minister said Turkey considered the improvement of friendly and good neighborly relations between Sudan and South Sudan was of utmost importance, adding that Turkey was ready to engage in cooperation in joint projects between the three countries. For his part, the South Sudanese foreign minister said his country penned many agreements with Turkey, which he said made major contributions in building peace in Africa. "It is a great chance to have Turkey as a partner who helps us in our efforts for development," Nhial added.