Japan, Turkey agree to boost trade, economic and political ties

TOKYO: Japan and Turkey have agreed to boost economic, cultural and political exchanges in an effort to strengthen their relationship.

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and visiting Turkish President Abdullah Gul also agreed during their talks Friday to cooperate on tackling global challenges such as climate change and terrorism.

The two leaders said they would develop a ``firmer and more dynamic relationship,'' according to a joint statement issued by Japan's Foreign Ministry.

Gul said his country is ``in search of a new partnership with the East,'' while Fukuda said Turkey _ which connects Europe, the Middle East and Asia _ is key to the region's stability and development.

The two leaders also agreed to promote tourism between their countries, and decided to designate the year 2010 as the Japan-Turkey tourism exchange year. Turkey asked Japan to consider letting Turkish Airlines increase the number of flights linking the two countries.

Fukuda praised Turkey's efforts in the Middle East peace process, as well as the reconstruction of war-torn Iraq and Afghanistan.

Gul arrived in Japan on Wednesday for a five-day official visit.