Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

In his speech, Hisarcıklıoğlu touched on the recent misconception that relations between Turkey and Europe had only started yesterday, but that the relations were rooted in shared history and partnership agreements.

Reiterating that the European Justice Council’s must be enacted, TOBB President Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that they expect the Turkish-German Cooperation Council to become operational again.

President of the Republic Gül

In his speech at the Turkish-German Business Council, President of the Republic Gül expressed that they wished to further develop cooperation. Saying that a person can have two native languages, Gül emphasized that Turks and Germans have always been allied. Relating that three million Turks vote in Germany, President of the Republic Gül reminded that the first trade agreement between the two countries was signed in 1848. Stating that Turkey has enacted reforms in the last twelve years, Gül said, “Europe has two sturdy countries, Turkey and Germany.”

Reporting that the trade between the two countries has increased by 38% from last year, Gül said, “Investments are possible in every field. We need to find new fields. Cooperation is needed in the fields of technology, science, R&D and culture.”

Asking Turks to invest in Germany, Gül pointed out the possibilities of cooperation in third party countries. Reminding that the Baghdad-Hejaz railroad was built together, President of the Republic Gül stated that they wish to build railroads which will connect Kazakhstan to Istanbul. Stating that Turkey has become a place to migrate to, Gül said, “The returns from Germany have begun. We are also in need of a qualified workforce.”

Stating that Turkey would be wanted in the EU As long as Turkey has done its part except for Turkey, Gül said, “Slowing down and obstructing the process offends us. The majority of the chapters have been enacted during Germany’s leadership.”

- German President Christian Wulf

In his speech the German President said that the agreement to prevent double taxing has been signed. Wulf invited Turkish investors to Germany. Stating that visa conditions needed to be made easier, Wulf said;
“I’ve met with the Turkish Businesswomen Association in Berlin. We are unaware of successful Turkish businesswomen. We need to be open to innovativeness. I thank everyone who has come here and worked since 1961. They have always been a welcome addition. Everyone has equal opportunity no matter what their nationality is. The constitution demands it. We must move forward as a uniting society. Let us further our cooperation in economy, education and science.

- President of the Turkish-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry Rainhardt Freiherr von Leoprechting

Speaking at the opening of the Business Forum, President of the Turkish-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry Rainhardt Freiherr von Leoprechting stated that visas are a disadvantage for Turkish businessmen. Stating that Turkey should be a full member of Europe, Freiherr introduced the book for which the foreword had been written by both the Presidents.

- DIHK President Hans Heinrich Driftman

President of the Union of Commerce and Industry Chambers of Germany (DIHK), Hans Heinrich Driftman touched on the strong partnership of Turkey and Germany. Saying that they were reaping the fruits of this partnership, Driftman reported that German investors were pioneers in the iron, automotive and chemistry sectors. Stating that Turks have made a great contribution to German economy, Driftman stated his gratification for the development of middle-sized Turkish companies in Germany.

Hans Heinrich Driftman drew attention to the strong cooperation and friendship between TOBB and DIHK, saying, “Europe’s future is tied to Turkey. Turkey is a key country and a part of Europe.”

After the speeches, the two country Presidents were presented with copies of the book, “In Bester Gesellschaft”.
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