Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

In his speech here, TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the fire of war is growing in the north and south and said, “In this troubled process, we must first preserve our unity and solidarity. Love each other without marginalizing one another.”

In his speech at the Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ATSO) 142^nd Anniversary Tax and Ali Bahar Special Awards Ceremony, Hisarcıklıoğlu said that he was pleased to be in Antalya, the star of agriculture, trade, tourism and industry.

Explaining that they kept the memory of former ATSO President Ali Bahar alive, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “In accordance with the vision of our late president, Ali Bahar Special Awards are beginning. Thus, you ensure that the valuable legacy he left to the business world is passed on to future generations. We will always remember him with respect, may his place be in heaven and his soul rest in peace.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu emphasized that Antalya has become the center of tourism, trade and agriculture not only in the Mediterranean but also around the world.

Pointing out that the 15 million tourists visiting the city in 2023 and agricultural exports of more than 5 billion dollars make this success even more tangible, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “The work of ATSO has played a major role in Antalya's becoming a brand city. Our chamber keeps the pulse of our business world in Antalya in the best way, translates the voice of our members, intervenes for solutions to their problems and finalizes them.”

Explaining that the city is a brand because Antalya acts in unity and solidarity, Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the city will reach bigger goals.

Hisarcıklıoğlu said that as TOBB, they built a 24-classroom science high school in Kepez district of Antalya, that they started to build schools in Alanya and Manavgat and that the school under construction in Kumluca was completed and opened yesterday.

- “Do not exclude anyone because of their ideas, opinions and beliefs”

TOBB President Hisarcıklıoğlu continued:

“The fire of war in our north and south is growing. We are in a period where the path ahead is not clear. In this troubled period, first of all, we must preserve our unity and solidarity. Love each other without marginalizing on another. You may be from different ethnic origins, different beliefs, sects, different political views, you may have different thoughts. But the characteristic of being human is to love each other. Do not exclude anyone because of their opinions, views or beliefs. Let's love and respect each other.”

Stating that they will succeed when they unite in common mind, Hisarcıklıoğlu reminded that all of Türkiye was together in fires and earthquakes, and emphasized that everyone will benefit when they come together not only in hard times but also in good times.

Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that people who love will be happy and successful, people who do not love will fail, and noted that it is important for everyone to love each other.

Stating that there are also problems in the economy, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “Together with our Chambers and Commodity Exchanges, we personally convey the problems you are experiencing to the relevant Ministers.”