Turkey-Africa foreign trade volume aims for 40 billion dollars.

Important Statements from Minister of Trade Bolat

The Ministry of Trade is hosting the Turkey-Africa Business and Economy Forum (TABEF), which is being held to strengthen cooperation between Turkey and African countries in the face of global economic uncertainties. Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat provided information about the topics to be discussed over the two days at the opening of the forum.

Strategic Cooperation Amid Uncertainties

Bolat stated that business opportunities will be evaluated through various areas such as food security, infrastructure financing, technology, health, and energy. "This period is a significant opportunity for strengthening strategic partnerships between Turkey and African countries at a critical time when protectionist trade practices are increasing and the multilateral international trade system is facing challenges," he said.

Foreign Trade Volume Targets

Minister Bolat recalled that Turkey-Africa foreign trade volume was 5.4 billion dollars in 2003, stating, "This figure exceeded 37 billion dollars last year and we aim to reach 40 billion dollars this year. This represents a 7-fold growth."

Turkish Investments and Construction Projects

Stating that Turkish investors' investments in Africa have reached 15 billion dollars, Bolat expressed that Turkish contractors have contributed to Turkey's development projects in Africa by being involved in 2,043 projects. The total value of these projects is recorded at approximately 100 billion dollars.

Aviation and Cultural Ties

Turkish Airlines (THY) connects Africans to the world through Istanbul by operating flights to 62 destinations in over 40 countries in Africa. Additionally, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency and non-governmental organizations are carrying out significant social and humanitarian projects on the continent.

The Closing of the Forum Will Be Attended by President Erdoğan

Bolat noted, "This forum is filled with thousands of B2B meetings and panels. Tomorrow, the closing of the forum will be carried out by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan," pointing to important moments.