At the outset, I would like to thank to the Turkish Asian Center for Strategic Studies for organizing an international cogress on such an important subject. It is a great privilege for me to be present at the inauguration of the
1 International Turkish - African Congress together with scholars, intellectuals and eminent persons from Turkey, various African countries, regional and international organizations.
I would like to avail of this opportunity to convey my deep sense of appreciation to the Government of the Republic of Turkey, in particular, His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister, and His Excellency Abdullah Gul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, for their keen interest in demonstrating solidarity with Africa, and developing and enhancing excellent relations between Turkey and African countries.
I would also like to seize this opportunity to express my profound grati- tude to H.E Professor Alpha Omar Konare, President of the African Union Commission, for his gracious interest and unwavering support that he has shown to discuss the ways and means of broadening fruitful relations between Turkey and Africa.
