Sudanese president to visit Turkey on Monday

January 18, 2008 (KHARTOUM) — President Omer al-Bashir will begin next Monday an official visit to Turkey, the first-ever by a Sudanese President since independence, the official SUNA reported today

During the three-day visit, al-Bashir will meet with President Abdullah Gul and will discuss bilateral relations and joint issues and explore means to boost joint politic and economic cooperation ties.

Al- Bashir will brief the Turkish leadership on the progress of peace process in Sudan — Naivasah, Abuja and east Sudan peace agreements — as well as efforts by the government of national unity to accomplish the peace process through the ongoing UN-Au mediation to bring peace in Darfur.

High-ranking delegation including federal ministers, Khartoum State governor and businessmen will accompany the President. Turkish ambassador to Sudan has welcomed the visit, saying it will enhance bilateral relations.

The two Presidents will attend signing of economic agreements and memos of understanding in the presence of the two foreign ministers, he said. Turkish is resolute to resolve Darfur crisis and will spare no efforts to resettle other issues, he said.

(ST)