Shaath seeks Turkish support

"The road map – though it is going to be difficult – opens the opportunity for a potentially successful return to diplomacy and reconstruction," Shaath said.

Planning

"We would like to see quick planning for Turkish-Palestinian co-operation in trade… We would like to see Turkish companies join in the process of reconstruction in Palestine," he added.

Mainly Muslim but strictly secular Turkey has been Israel’s chief regional ally since 1996 when the two sides hammered out a military co-operation agreement, much to the anger of Arab countries and Iran.

But Ankara also maintains fully-fledged diplomatic ties with the Palestinians and supports their claim for statehood.

Shaath said he and Gul had also discussed preparations for "a Turkish role in the international conference, which, according to the roadmap, should be made by the end of this year."