In the Turkish capital, Ankara, Abdul Karim az-Zubeidi, President of the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA), held a meeting with Serkan Kayalar, President of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), to examine ways to promote mutual cooperation with a view to implementing development programmes in support of the Palestinian people in general, and local government units (LGUs) in particular.

Commending TİKA role in implementing a large number of projects around the world, particularly in Palestine, Az-Zubeidi stressed that tangible progress has been made in the Palestinian territory thanks to this support, which seeks to strengthen the Palestinian people’s resilience. In the spirit of partnership and cooperation, it reflects the depth of distinctive bilateral relations between both countries and Turkish support of Palestine at all levels. Az-Zubeidi stressed the importance of maintaining the continuity of this cooperation.

Kayalar confirmed TİKA’s position in support of the Palestinian cause as well as the high level of cooperation and coordination with Palestinian institutions. Kayalar made clear that TİKA was ready to consolidate and develop cooperation to serve Palestinian LGUs in view of the role they play in facilitating the Agency’s operations and implementing project.

The meeting was held in the context of the efforts made to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation between both parties and discuss future projects, which can support and develop Palestinian communities in various areas.