Japanese transport minister Keiichi Ishii met with Turkish President Erdogan during his visit on January 17-19 and expressed his intention to assist the nation to build the Çanakkale Bridge, which is to have the world’s longest span. As Ankara has been undertaking procurement of a contractor for the project, Minister Ishii pledged the nation’s effort in hopes of Japanese companies winning the contract. Showing his satisfaction toward Japan’s track record in the country’s bridge construction, “The most feasible plan will be preferred,” answered President Erdogan.

The Çanakkale Bridge will be constructed over Dardanelles with completion scheduled in 2023 in time for the 100th anniversary of foundation. Minister Ishii had meetings with Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım and Minister of transport, maritime affairs and communication Ahmet Arslan as well. (2017/1/23)