By Bahattin Gonultas
ISTANBUL (AA) – 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."
- A strong, safe country
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.