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Turkish president starts visit to Saudi Arabia

Xinhua, March 1, 2015 Adjust font size:

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has started a visit to Saudi Arabia on Saturday after newly enthroned King Salman took over the reins in January.

In a press briefing at the airport in Ankara before his departure for Riyadh, Erdogan emphasized Turkey's strategic ties with Saudi Arabia.

He said Egypt, Libya, Syria and Yemen will be among the topics of his talks with the new King.

Ankara and Riyad have different opinions on Egypt, Libya and Syria, but share similar concerns on Iran's expansion of influence in the Gulf region.

Yasar Yakis, former foreign minister of Turkey, said Saudi Arabia's policy towards Turkey is not likely to undergo a major change under the new King's rule.

"Turkey may be expecting steps to be taken in Saudi Arabia's approach to various conflicts in the Middle East, especially in Egypt, Libya and Syria," he said.

Erdogan is scheduled to visit the kingdom from Feb. 28 to March 2. Endit