KANDAHAR - During his maiden visit to Kandahar, Turkish Ambassador, Bassat Ozturk, met the governor, provincial council and commerce and industries chiefs on Saturday

Governor Toryalai Weesa told Pajhwok Afghan News he had held wide-ranging talks with the diplomat on expanding ties between the two sides in the fields of culture, education and commerce.

He expressed optimism that the Kandahar University, some educational institutions and public health department would forge linkage programs with Turkish institutions.

There was a need to expand bilateral ties, particularly cooperation in the trade sector, Weesa said, adding that he had underlined the need for air service between Kandahar and Turkey.

They also exchanged views on opening a Turkish consulate in Kandahar, Weesa said. The ambassador expressed satisfaction with his first visit to the province.

During his meetings with various local officials, the ambassador assured joint steps would be taken to meet their demands.

Referring to Afghan-led peace talks, he said Turkey was playing an active role in ensuring stability in Afghanistan. The 8th round of trilateral meeting among Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey would be held soon, he noted.

Afghanistan and Turkey had been enjoying cordial relations and Ankara had been extending cooperation to Afghanistan for implementation of reconstruction, education and training projects, the ambassador added.

Turkey would play its role in paving the ground for Afghan students pursuing higher studies in various fields, the diplomat promised. (Pajhwok)