Turkey sees huge potential in ties with India

New Delhi, March 24 (IANS) Stressing the strong relations between India and Turkey, Turkish ambassador to India Burak Akcapar Saturday said there was huge potential in the ties between the two countries.

'I'd like to tell something to the young people here. India and Turkey have had common roots. Its time to rekindle our age-old ties. An Indian would not be culture-shocked in Turkey,' said Akcapar at the launch of the Turkish Fest 2012 at Select Citywalk mall in Saket area of south Delhi.

'If you come to Turkey, you will feel that you knew this culture from somewhere,' he said, adding that trade and tourism ties between the two countries were reaching new highs.

Social activist Swami Agnivesh, who was also present at the launch, recalled his experiences of a recent visit to Istanbul.

'Turkey is a beautiful country. In Istanbul, it seems as if the sea is joining East and West together,' he said.

The two-day fest showcasing Turkish art, culture, music and cuisine opened with a musical performance by Mehteran, the traditional Turkish military band. Turkish tourism department has set up stalls selling Turkish delicacies and sweetmeats.

Other stalls include a traditional 'Hat' calligraphy and 'Ebru' painting stalls with the artists making the art pieces on the spot.