The Daily Star - Turkey working hard to win the release of kidnapped pilgrims, July 11 2012

BEIRUT: Turkish Ambassador to Lebanon Inan Ozyildiz said Tuesday that Turkey was working hard to win the release of the 11 pilgrims kidnapped in Syria two months ago, the National News Agency reported.

“Turkey is working hard to free the kidnapped Lebanese and we hope to do so as soon as possible,” Ozyildiz said following his meeting with the head of the Journalists Union, Elias Aoun, to discuss local and regional issues.

“Of course I am in Lebanon and do not know what is taking place now in Turkey with Lebanese officials on this case – which is not an easy one,” Ozyildiz said, adding that he will meet the families of the pilgrims Wednesday and hopes “it will be a good meeting because we all want to free them.”

Ozyildiz described Turkey’s relationship with Syria as “not good” and said that his country hopes to find a speedy solution to the crisis which is causing so much bloodshed.

During his meeting with Aoun, Ozyildiz praised Lebanese-Turkish relations, which are witnessing progress on all levels, especially in the tourism industry. “Many Turks are visiting Lebanon during weekends to explore the country’s attractions.”

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu assured Speaker Nabih Berri Monday that the case of the pilgrims is still active and that Turkey will redouble its efforts to secure their release. Berri also met with the pilgrims’ families and promised to follow up on the issue.

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