Foreign Minister of Nicaragua, Samuel Santos Lopez paid an official visit to Turkey between 12-13 September 2013, upon the invitation extended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu.

At the meeting between Foreign Minister Davutoğlu and his Nicaraguan counterpart held in Ankara, all aspects of bilateral relations were discussed and views were exchanged on international and regional developments.

During the joint press conference, Foreign Minister Davutoğlu noting the historical nature of the visit of Foreign Minister Lopez, said “This is a historical visit. Because this is the first foreign ministerial visit between our countries”.

Citing that they had a very friendly and sincere meeting, Foreign minister Davutoğlu thanked Nicaragua for the firm stance and the solidarity shown with Turkey on the Mavi Marmara attack.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu stated that an extensive file has been reviewed with a view to developing bilateral relations; and that it was agreed on concluding the legal basis for development of economic relations. In this context, he maintained that the agreement on economic cooperation between the two countries, which is still under negotiation, will be signed at the meeting to be held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Foreign Minister Davutoğlu added that it was also aimed to conclude the agreements on prevention of double taxation, mutual promotion of investments and free trade at the earliest.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu indicated Turkey’s intention to open an embassy in Nicaragua in the near future, in line with its opening up policy to Latin America and noted that it was agreed in principle that Nicaragua will also have an embassy in Turkey. Foreign Minister Davutoğlu said that commencement of Turkish Airlines flights to Nicaragua was also discussed during the meeting.