Foreign Minister Davutoğlu “Turkey’s demands were met as a result of tough negotiations in the last three years”

Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey assessed the developments regarding the apology of Israel to Turkey on the “Mavi Marmara” attack during a TV program.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu said that tough negotiations were conducted in the last 3 years concerning Turkey’s demands from Israel with a view to normalization of relations and in the end Turkey’s demands were met.

Pointing that the content of the phone call between Prime Minister Erdoğan and Israeli Prime Minister was agreed in advance, Foreign Minister Davutoğlu mentioned that negotiations were held through U.S. officials. Prior to the phone call between the Prime Ministers, officials of Al Fatah, Hamas, Egypt and Qatar were contacted, added Foreign Minister Davutoğlu.

Recalling that Israel did not object the compensation but opposed the demand for apology from the very beginning Foreign Minister Davutoğlu explained that there would be negotiations concerning the compensation to the victims’ families in respect of international law. Foreign Minister Davutoğlu said that the easing of embargo on Gaza started and stressed that Turkey would closely monitor the practice concerning the embargo.

Foreign Minister Davutoğlu pointing the timing of the recent development said that this step would strengthen the position of Palestine and would crystallize Turkey’s role in the Middle East Peace Process.

Turkish Prime Ministry Press Statement Concerning the Phone Call Between Turkish Prime Minister and Israeli Prime Minister