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ANKARA, Turkey : Singapore President SR Nathan has met his Turkish counterpart President Abdullah Gul in the capital Ankara.
The leaders are hoping that a joint business agreement will be signed soon, which will mean better trade relations between Turkey and Singapore.
President Nathan was given a full state welcome at the Cankaya Palace, with the Turkish President by his side.
While the military band played the Singapore anthem, a 21-gun salute echoed in the background. Mr Nathan also greeted the soldiers with a "hello" in the Turkish language.
After the ceremonial welcome, the leaders met behind closed doors and discussed various issues, including the current global economic downturn, religious extremism and terrorism.
Mr Nathan said while the world is experiencing difficult economic times, there are still opportunities. Both countries are exploring ways to increase bilateral trade and investments.
"We touched a great deal on the economic aspect of our relations, and we were briefed by the president and his team and the various measures that Turkey has taken to make Turkey an important trade destination and opportunities, and a place for investments," said President Nathan.
President Abdullah Gul said Singapore is an important component in Southeast Asia, and this will be critical, as Turkey looks to formalising a Free Trade Agreement with the 10-member ASEAN grouping.
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is also expected to call on President Nathan.
Mr Nathan will be leaving the Turkish capital and heading next for Istanbul, the second and final leg of his state visit. - CNA /ls
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