Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Speaking during the session moderated by B20 Australia Sherpa Robert Milliner in addition to TOBB President and B20 Turkey Chair M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu were B20 Infrastructure Taskforce Chair Ren Hongbin, IOE Chair Daniel Funes de Rioja and RSPP Chair Alexander Shokhin; Turkish Economy Minister Nihat Zeybekci was the guest of honor.

Expressing his pleasure in seeing China put as much emphasis on inclusivity which was the focal point of the Turkish chair term of the B20, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “In a world where the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer, it is imperative that we use trade as a weapon. Regarding the issues encountered throughout the world such as terrorism, anti-democratic structures and immigration, it is necessary that we act united in today’s global world.”

Stating that he views the e-World Trade Platform initiative of B20 China, Hisarcıklıoğlu stressed the necessity of all countries opening the way for e-trade, “All countries of the world have become interdependent. This issue requires a sensitive approach.”

- Minister Zeybekci emphasizes e-trade and SMEs

Economy Minister Nihat Zeybekci stated that they take the priorities and suggestions of the B20 to heart and that the G20 will make an effort to open the way for trade. In regards to e-trade and SMEs, Zeybekci stressed the importance of developing a multilateral trade system.

TOBB President and B20 Turkey Chair M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu met with IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde and Ali Baba Board Chair and CEO Jack Ma as a part of his Hangzhou visit. Hisarcıklıoğlu exchanged views in regards to potential and development-ready fields in Turkey.