Minister Ömer Bolat Addresses Business Leaders in Niğde
Ömer Bolat, the Minister of Trade, emphasized Turkey’s strong position both in the Islamic world and on the global stage during his speech at the Niğde Business Community Iftar Meeting. The event, held at a local wedding hall, brought together business representatives, government officials, and community leaders.
Investments and Industrial Expansion
Minister Bolat noted that he had visited three newly opened factories in the city’s Organized Industrial Zone (OSB), underlining that substantial investments in these factories are symbolic of Turkey’s growing economy. He congratulated the factory owners and highlighted the remarkable progress made during the AK Party era, stating, “The number of OSBs has reached 342, and businesses have increased fivefold, from 12,000 to 60,000. The number of workers employed in OSBs has soared from 700,000 to 2.4 million.” He also pointed out the establishment of agricultural OSBs and significant growth in electricity production.
Resilience Amid Energy Market Challenges
Response to Regional Tensions
Addressing the market disruptions caused by regional conflicts affecting the Hormuz Strait, Minister Bolat remarked, “Turkey remains resilient in the face of crises. Thanks to the strong leadership of our President, the AK Party, and our coalition partners, we have maintained political and economic stability for 23 years.”
Economic Indicators and Growth
Minister Bolat outlined key economic achievements, noting, “Over the past 23 years, Turkey has averaged 5.4% annual real growth. Since the pandemic, we have recorded positive growth for 22 consecutive quarters. Among G20 countries, Turkey posted the second-highest average growth rate in the last 16 years.” He further stated, “Our total exports of goods and services are approaching 400 billion dollars. National income has increased from 238 billion to 1.6 trillion dollars, while per capita income rose from 3,600 to 18,040 dollars.”
Technological Innovation and Defence Industry
Highlighting advances in science and technology, Minister Bolat said, “Around 70,000 people are employed in our technoparks, and there are nearly 13,000 enterprises. Turkey now launches its own satellites, has achieved self-sufficiency in the defence industry, and is capable of producing fifth-generation fighter jets and training aircraft. We have also developed the domestically produced Togg electric car.” He added, “Turkey is now the world’s leading exporter of armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).”
Commitment to Continued Progress
Minister Bolat concluded by crediting these successes to the collective efforts of political leaders, the People’s Alliance, and the continued support of the Turkish people. He emphasized, “We will continue to work for the prosperity of all segments of society and press forward for Turkey’s future.”
The meeting was attended by Governor Nedim Akmeşe, AK Party Niğde MP Cevahir Uzkurt, Mayor Emrah Özdemir, and other local officials and businesspeople.
Fotoğraf Galerisi
