TURKISH-GERMAN COOPERATION AND INVESTMENT CONFERENCE

The 1st Turkish-German Cooperation and Investment Conference organised by Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) was held in Berlin, the capital city of Germany, with the participation of the Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis and the Minister of Finance Mehmet Simsek.

In his speech at the conference, pointing to the importance of Germany's support to Turkey's EU accession Bagis said: "I would like to answer in the same manner the call of the EU for Turkey to continue: 'You also please continue.' "

Indicating that the counties were getting closer to each other more and more and the economic crisis actually proved how strong their relations were, Bagis said: "In such an environment dialogue and cooperation are of great importance. Thus, this conference is of capital importance also. I think it is very meaningful that this meeting takes place in a period when Turkey, both economically and politically is strong and determined."

Pointing to the importance of the relations between Turkey and Germany, Bagis said: "The importance of the relations has become more evident. No doubt, the relations will be built on mutual benefit. The two countries understood each other better with each passing day. Germany is the country with which Turkey has the most improved trade relations and Germany sends the highest number of tourists to Turkey."

Stating that Turkey would be a very important country in terms of these issues and the energy sector, Bagis said: "Though Turkey is a very important country in these issues energy chapter has not been opened in EU accession negotiations. This is a double standard. We believe that Europe should look after its own interests. Transformation of Turkey will take it to a more strategic position with regard to energy matters. It is very important that Europe should recognize that and look after its interests.

Source: AA