Turkey's Erdogan finds Greek PM's letter "positive"

Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou responded to a letter sent by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on October 30 when Papandreou's Socialist Party came to power.

Papandreou's five-page letter was dispatched through Greek Embassy in Ankara on Monday.

In his letter, part of which was posted in Turkish Prime Ministry's official website, Papandreou said he was encourage by his and Erdogan's joint will to improve relations between the two countries and peoples.

"Let's use this joint will to create a new window of opportunity," Papandreou said.

Referring to differences in the Aegean region, Papandreou said that Greek priority was to create a secure environment and a climate of mutual trust.

Papandreou said he strongly agrees with Erdogan on his suggestions that exploratory talks should be revived and accelerated.

Greek premier also reaffirmed his support to Turkey's EU bid which he said would bring benefits to both Turkey and the Union, strengthen good neighborhood between Turkey and Greece, and contribute to peace and stability in the region.

On Cyprus problem, Papandreou said that Greek and Turkish Cypriots should be allowed to freely decide their common future without any foreign interference or pressure. This is the key for a permanent solution in the island, he said.

Erdogan described Papandreou's response as "positive and promising for solution of problems", sources close to Turkish Prime Ministry said.

"The letter was warm, positive and cooperative," said an official, who asked not to be named.

"Mr. Papandreou showed how he is constructive and sensitive on relations," Erdogan was quoted as saying by the official.

/World Bulletin/