Turkey, Britain vows to boost new strategic partnership

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Turkey and Britain have achieved an agreement that sets a new framework for cooperation and dialogue between governments in defense and economy, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim alongside his British counterpart Theresa May announced on Saturday.

Britain signed a framework contract with Turkey to design new fighter jets for Turkey, Yildirim said at a joint press conference following a meeting in Ankara, adding that the step will help take cooperation in defense to a further stage.

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May meets with her Turkish counterpart Binali Yildirim in Ankara, Turkey, January 28, 2017. ‍/CFP Photo

Both countries have vowed to strengthen the cooperation on security through a new strategic security partnership, including intelligence sharing, aviation security and domestic security, state-run Anadolu Agency reported.

Turkey will also have a free trade agreement with Britain, following the latter's exit from the EU, Turkish Prime Minister said.

Yildirim stressed that Turkey's allies need to provide more support to and share the refugee burden with the country.

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May and her Turkish counterpart Binali Yildirim review a guard of honour during a welcoming ceremony in Ankara, Turkey, January 28, 2017. /CFP Photo

May described the relations "a vital new partnership" for both countries, noting that it is central to Britain's capacity to tackle the terrorist threat to Britain.

"The relationship between Turkey and Britain has always been important, but it is arguably even more vital today. Turkey sits on the frontline of some of the most difficult and serious challenges we face," the British PM said.

Both countries agreed to establish a trade working group to explore ways in which they can improve bilateral trade.

On Syria, Turkey and Britain decided to work together closely to fight Islamic State.

(Source: Xinhua）

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