Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Hisarcıklıoğlu began his speech by thanking Minister Bağış for his determined contributions to the overcoming of visa obstacles.

Stating that there have been no concrete steps taken towards a permanent solution to the matter, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “Following the last week’s Ministers’ Meeting, it was announced that the agreement ‘Roadmap towards a Visa-Free Regime with Turkey’ will be signed. We expect that this will take place within the next week.

I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this process, especially the Prime Minister. This agreement is an important step towards righting injustices aimed at Turkish citizens.”

- “Temporary become permanent”

The visa procedures for Turkish citizens were first implemented in regards to the conditions of the 1980 as a temporary measure, unfortunately becoming permanent. The agreement which will be signed next week will present opportunity for the EU to reevaluate the Turkish Republic of 2013. It is our hope that this roadmap will be completed in short time.”

Despite all of this, the Turkish business world maintains its ties with the EU. Buying and selling; attending fairs; investing. This means that our businessmen need to travel to EU member countries. This means that while keeping track of developments, we businessmen must also find practical and pragmatic solutions.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu reported that long term and multiple pass visas would be granted by the Hungarian Embassy for applications vetted by Chambers and Exchanges and that they, as TOBB, are behind every step to improve the business and trading environment.