ISTANBUL
"The past ten years were very fruitful and exciting in terms of Turkish-Arab relations. And the relations will improve significantly within the next decade," Simsek told the Turkish Arab Economic Forum in Istanbul.
Simsek said Turkey was "very much excited" about the Arab Spring, which he said would bring more stability in the medium and long term despite some immediate uncertainties and damages.
"The transition period needs to be managed well in meeting expectations, maintaining the rule of law and in protection of the territorial integrity of all the countries involved. And the driving force of change should be the people. The Arab world has added much strength to Turkey," Simsek said.
Simsek said closer relations were needed between Turkey and the MENA area, adding Turkey had signed free trade agreements with a number of the region's countries.
"The number of free trade agreements should increase in order to boost competition, innovation and efficiency," Simsek said.
