Turkey expects Israel to correct mistakes

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said that Israel should correct its mistakes in order to improve ties with Turkey. The minister noted that restoration of friendly relations should not only be carried out via mass media, but with the help of diplomatic relations as well.

Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Pinhas Avivi urged Turkey to start a dialogue to develop a common strategy for Syria. Avivi visited Jerusalem and met Israeli politicians.

The Israeli noted that apologies for the Mavi Marmara tragedy will only be made if Turkey shows understanding of the Gaza problem.

Turkish-Israeli relations worsened after the attack of Israeli troops on the Freedom Flotilla heading to Gaza on May 31, 2010. Nine Turks died. Turkey demands compensations for their families and official apologies. Military cooperation between the two states ended in September 2011.