Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu attended the 12th Ministerial Meeting of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) held with the theme “Promoting Intra-Asian Tourism” on 25 November 2013 in Manama.

Speaking at the meeting which was the first Ministerial Meeting of the ACD following Turkey's membership in September 2013, Foreign Minister Davutoğlu expressed his pleasure to represent Turkey for the first time as a Member State at an ACD Ministerial Meeting.

Pointing out that the rise of Asia is a defining characteristic of the 21st century Foreign Minister Davutoğlu said that in light of the growing significance of the Asia-Pacific region, Turkey has put into effect policies geared towards opening-up to the region in all possible areas.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu maintained that Turkey considers the ACD as an evolving platform with an inclusive membership which covers the whole Asian continent from East Asia to Southeast Asia, West Asia and Central Asia and believes the main objectives of ACD, such as promoting interdependence among Asian countries, expanding trade and financial markets within Asia are worth pursuing across the continent.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu stated that in this sense, Turkey is particularly willing to contribute to regional connectivity and diversified transport routes, as well as energy issues and shared his views on some concrete projects.

Referring the theme of the Ministerial Meeting, Foreign Minister Davutoğlu noted that Turkey as the 7th biggest country in terms of tourism destination in the world is ready share its experience and to contribute to the ongoing cooperation efforts in this field within the ACD framework.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu underlined the importance of cooperation with the ACD countries in the field of culture, education and terrorism and pointed out that Turkey welcomes the ACD call to the Member States to work together to prevent and suppress terrorist acts, and to continue their efforts to enhance dialogue and broaden understanding among civilizations.

Concluding his remarks Foreign Minister Davutoğlu highlighted Turkey’s firm resolve to expand further its interaction and cooperation with all ACD countries as the 33rd Member State.

Remarks by Foreign Minister Davutoğlu at the ACD Ministerial Meeting (Full Text)