Turkish PM expresses importance of strong ties with Israel

Unexpected reaction from Turkish government that lately cahnged its stand on Israel by defending a tough line againt Israel beyond the flotilla incident. But can they boost reallignment with the arab world though palestinian support and israel`s demonization while also restauring friendly relations? As a secular state they don`t face similar arguments advanced by muslim resistance based on religious deeds, but can they have this cake and eat it too?

"Erdogan told (Israeli premier) Benjamin Netanyahu that he valued centuries-long strong friendship and cooperation between the Turkish and Jewish nations," the statement from Erdogan's office said.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/22/us-turkey-israel-erdogan-idUSBRE92L0SJ20130322