28th International Business Forum in Istanbul focuses on migration's humanitarian, economic impacts

By Ugur Aslanhan and Fatma Eda Topcu

ISTANBUL (AA) - The 28th International Business Forum (IBF), organized by Türkiye’s Independent Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (MUSIAD) with the theme "Migration from Humanitarian and Economic Perspectives," was held in Istanbul on Monday.

The forum, with Anadolu as the global communication partner, was attended by Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat.

Speaking at the opening session, MUSIAD President Mahmut Asmali highlighted that the IBF platform, founded with the vision of creating a "global business network" among Muslim businesspeople, now brings together numerous business associations from 25 countries.

Asmali stressed that the platform aims to establish continuous connections, foster strong economic ties between countries, and enhance communication and commercial diplomacy.

Underlining that the IBF is growing stronger and expanding each year, he said: "As in previous years, this year's IBF is being held concurrently with our MUSIAD International Trade Fair."

"Our participants will establish high-quality, long-term collaborations through both the IBF and the trade fair," Asmali added.

The MUSIAD Trade Expo 2024 in Istanbul will target $1 billion in trade volume through business-to-business (B2B) meetings, according to the Turkish group.

The MUSIAD Expo 2024 will bring together businesspeople and investors from 88 countries, with attendees from over 300 participating firms operating in 24 different sectors forging new collaborations this Tuesday to Friday.

The event will include a G20 panel, a diplomatic missions session, the Türkiye-Iraq Business Forum, MUSIAD’s own networking program, and closing programs.

The last day of the event will be allocated to B2B meetings with international procurement delegations, country presentations, special programs, and the signing of memorandums of understanding.

- IBF tackles global challenges

Asmali said that in addition to developing economic and commercial relations, the IBF takes significant steps to address global challenges and seek solutions.

He explained that their annual meetings focus on addressing issues causing international distress, with this year’s theme centered on migration.

"Every year, millions of people embark on journeys in search of a better life. Unfortunately, some lose their lives during these journeys, while others face difficult conditions in the places they arrive," he said.

"This situation of migrants is not only a humanitarian concern but also brings significant economic potential and responsibility," he explained.