The Israeli raid late last month on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, which killed nine Turkish nationals, was the main subject of discussion at the 3rd Arab-Turkish Forum held in Istanbul on Thursday. The forum was presided over by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa. Forum participants stressed the "common vision" between the Arabs and Turkey with regards to the Palestinian national cause and called for bringing Israel to trial for its assault on the flotilla bearing humanitarian aid. Erdogan noted that trade between Turkey and the Arab world had fallen from US$37 billion in 2008 to US$29 billion this year, due largely to the global economic crisis. "Turkey enjoys brotherly relations with the Arab states," he assured forum participants. "And we will provide all facilities for Arab investment." Moussa, for his part, said there should not be any obstacles to cooperation with Turkey. "It's time for a more positive and cooperative atmosphere in the region," he said. Translated from the Arabic Edition.
