Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu visited Bodrum, Milas, Muğla, Marmaris and Manavgat, where the forest fires broke out.

“We came to Bodrum, Milas and Menteşe to see the fire disasters on site. From here to Marmaris, from there to Manavgat. There were 214 wildfires in 46 provinces. It's a first in our history. Fires are continuing in 6 provinces. It has upset our entire country and affected us deeply. I would like to thank everyone who has fought in firefighting efforts, especially our state.”

- “Let there be no doubt, wounds will be healed”

Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that all of Turkey was united in the fire disaster. “May Allah never test us with such days again. But let this union continue. The destruction of forests triggers climate change. Therefore, protecting our nature and water resources should be our most important national issue. Let there be no doubt, wounds will be healed.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that 15.5 million TL was raised in one day in the cash campaign they started by calling for support for 365 chambers and the stock exchange. “I am proud of our community. Thank you all so much. May Allah never cause such catastrophe again. We have launched a formal fundraising campaign with the necessary permissions from the ministries. See, it's only been a day. Currently, the cash assistance from our chambers and exchanges in Turkey is 15.5 million TL. Whoever wants to plant saplings, who wants to donate cash. I have a whole list of things that are needed. The Glassware Council is proposing to provide all the plates, bowls and cutlery of the burning houses. Our Furniture Industry Council says 'let us give you your furniture'. Great solidarity. May Allah not show you these difficult times again. We saw such solidarity in the earthquake. There is this solidarity in 81 provinces of Turkey. They all have their hearts beating with you.”

“I have come to gather your opinions and suggestions. I will personally convey the opinions and suggestions I will receive from you to the ministers, especially our President. Those who want to contribute to this nationwide campaign started from day one. Through the coordination center, we are noting everyone’s needs and directing our friends throughout Turkey."

- “As the business world, we will make all manner of contributions”

Noting that everyone is ready to help, TOBB President Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “After these fires are over, we will make all manner of contributions as the business world. Through the unity of nation and state everything will be overcome. I thank my chambers and exchanges. They tell us everything needed. We're coordinating. The funds raised in the campaign will be used in areas where they are most needed. After the fires are over, we'll all work on reforestation. May Allah never cause such a disaster for our nation again.”

- Hisarcıklıoğlu listened to chamber/commodity exchange councilors

Hisarcıklıoğlu first received information from Mahmut Serdar Kocadon, chairman of the Board of Directors of Bodrum Chamber of Commerce in Bodrum. Hisarcıklıoğlu also met with Bodrum CE councillors.

Hisarcıklıoğlu then moved to Milas, where he visited the Milas Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where he listened to the problems of the council members. During the visit, Milas CCI Chairman Reşit Özer briefed Hisarcıklıoğlu on the effects of the fire.

Hisarcıklıoğlu also visited Yeniköy thermal power plant affected by the forest fire and sent his best wishes to Turkish Business President Ergun Atalay on behalf of Nihat Özdemir and the workers.

Hisarcıklıoğlu met with Mustafa Ercan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Muğla Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Hurşit Öztürk, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Muğla Commodity Exchange, and chamber/commodity exchange council members at Muğla Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

TOBB President Hisarcıklıoğlu, also visiting Marmaris Chamber of Commerce, received information about the latest status of the fires from Mutlu Ayhan, Chairman of Marmaris CE Board of Directors, and spoke with the council members.

Hisarcıklıoğlu, who continued his studies in Antalya, visited Manavgat Chamber of Commerce and Industry and listened to the council members. Hisarcıklıoğlu received information from Manavgat CCI Chairman Sedi Tahsin Güngör.