Esteemed businesspeople;
Turkey's position in the world economy and global trade strengthens with each passing day. With a history of five centuries of neighborly relations and deep-rooted ties, Russia holds an important place and role in our country's economic and commercial life and development.
Despite recent developments in the nearby geography and various challenges, today Turkey stands as one of Russia's most significant trade partners, and likewise, Russia holds a crucial position among Turkey's trade partners.
This increase is undoubtedly gratifying. However, Turkish-Russian trade relations possess even greater potential, and we are aware that through the joint efforts of both countries and businessmen, we can achieve much more. As strategic partners and significant trade allies, there is much more that both countries can accomplish together, requiring long-term plans and well-structured initiatives. It's crucial for the two countries to engage in closer collaboration, particularly in the field of innovation, and to embark on joint projects in scientific and technological domains.
The Russian-Turkish Businessmen's Association (RTIB), acting as the gateway for Turkish businessmen in Russia, stands as a cornerstone of Turkish-Russian relations. As we collectively strive towards the goal of 'Annual $100 Billion Foreign Trade,' RTIB significantly contributes to strengthening bilateral relations. Nearly all of the $12 billion direct investments in Russia today have been carried out by around 200 Turkish companies, which are members of RTIB. These member firms also provide employment for approximately 100,000 individuals in Russia.
Since 1997, RTIB has been intensely dedicated to providing objective information about the Russian market to Turkish entrepreneurs, sharing experiences gained in the market, and acting as a communication bridge between the business communities of Turkey and Russia. Furthermore, we aim for effective coordination and collaboration with Turkish and Russian institutions and organizations.
At RTIB, we are committed to contributing our efforts and activities towards achieving the $100 billion goal set by the leaders of both states. With concerted efforts, we genuinely believe that we can achieve much better outcomes in the commercial relations between the two countries. We will strive with all our might to translate the steps taken, with the support of political authorities, into profitable investments for our companies.
Our future goals include establishing RTIB representations in regions, forming sectoral committees, and integrating Russian companies with investments in Turkey into our organization. With over 1000 Russian-capitalized companies in Turkey, we aim to extend the same support we endeavor to provide for Turkish businessmen in Russia to Russian companies operating in Turkey.
I am excited to assume the presidency of the Russian-Turkish Businessmen's Association from my esteemed friend Naki Karaaslan and co-chair Sabahattin Yavuz since 2012. I assure you that in this new term, we will exert our utmost efforts to further enhance and deepen economic and commercial relations between Turkey and Russia.
Sincerely,
ERDEM ACAY
RTIB Board Chairman
