Global investors who have contributed to the Turkish
economy should have no doubts about trusting in it, Prime Minister
Binali Yildirim said Thursday, touting the strong political power
and stability of the nation’s administration.
Speaking to the Ninth Investment Advisory Council meeting in
Istanbul, Yildirim said there is no such thing as a "foreign"
investor in Turkey, but only entrepreneurs.
"We share a common fate. You have contributed to this country
for many years. You know that we can’t look on you as a foreigner.
The concept of ‘foreigner’ doesn’t apply to investing in Turkey.
Anyone who invests in Turkey is an entrepreneur of this
country."
Yildirim said the Turkish government will provide all
opportunities without any discrimination to anyone who invests in
Turkey.
Yildirim stressed that trust is vital for both local and
international investors, who should have no doubt about trusting
Turkey.
"Trust, as you all know, is the biggest expectation for an
investor. The continuation of confidence means the realization of
new projects and new plans for investors in the long term. You
should have no doubt about trusting in Turkey."
Yildirim underlined that Turkey, with its strong political power
and stability, is safer than many countries of the world.
"Turkey is governed by a strong political authority which keeps
renewing itself, continues to make structural reforms without
letup, and meets the expectations of local and global investors,"
he said.
Yildirim said Turkish economy growth needs to be above a certain
threshold.
"In order to secure 5 percent-plus growth, we are arranging our
economic program accordingly. In doing this, we are not forsaking
fiscal discipline."
Turkey’s Economy Ministry invited to the meeting CEOs of leading
international companies – including Alstom, Alzahid Group Holding,
APM Terminals, Bank of China, Bombardier, BP, Burgan Bank, Gemalto,
Khazanah Nasional Berhad, and Microsoft – to tout its improved
investment environment and attract foreign investors.
"We want your determination and your willingness to make
investments in Turkey. Our task will be to clear your path and
eliminate any obstacles you face. We look forward to your opinions
and recommendations. We will see what we can offer you to invest
here."
The prime minister also said that 2017 will be a big year for
Turkey’s "investment drive".
"We will come up with new government incentives to spur your
appetite to invest further in Turkey," he said.