In an effort to strengthen economic relations with key players in Turkey, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Turkey, Niluka Kadurugamuwa, recently convened with Mr. Şekib Avdagiç, the President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, at the Chamber’s Istanbul headquarters.
The primary focus of their meeting was to investigate new opportunities for trade and investment collaboration between Sri Lanka and Turkey, aiming to bolster their shared trade goal of USD 500 million within the framework of the Turkey-Sri Lanka Joint Economic Cooperation.
Ambassador Kadurugamuwa emphasized the increasing potential for Turkish enterprises to tap into enhanced trade and investment opportunities in Sri Lanka. He advocated for deeper involvement in sectors of common interest, highlighting Sri Lanka’s advantageous geographic position, welcoming investment climate, and promising economic outlook.
Additional topics of discussion included improving air travel links, maritime partnerships, and tourism collaboration between the two nations. The Ambassador underscored the significance of fostering interpersonal connections and enhancing commercial ties between the business sectors of both countries.
President Avdagiç contributed valuable perspectives on the potential for expanding trade relations with Sri Lanka, particularly through heightened Turkish investments in the island. He also expressed enthusiasm for marketing Sri Lanka as an appealing destination for Turkish tourists and investors.
To initiate stronger business interactions, both parties agreed to arrange a virtual B2B session aimed at connecting Sri Lankan traders and exporters with their Turkish counterparts to explore various trade and partnership possibilities.
The President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce reiterated the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to further enhancing the long-standing economic ties between Sri Lanka and Turkey.
The Istanbul Chamber of Commerce stands as one of Turkey’s largest and most influential business organizations, representing a diverse array of industries and enterprises situated in Istanbul, the nation’s commercial and financial center. Founded in 1882, the Chamber plays a pivotal role in fostering trade, investment, entrepreneurship, and international economic collaboration. It offers support services to businesses, facilitates networking and trade partnerships, and actively engages in Turkey’s economic development through advocacy, market research, trade exhibitions, and interactions with foreign missions and international business communities.
Accompanying the Ambassador at the meeting were Dilanga Hettiarachchi, the First Secretary (Commercial) of the Sri Lankan Embassy in Ankara, and Dr. Aydin Öz, Sri Lanka’s Honorary Consul in Istanbul.
