Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

The third group Academic Consultants for 81 Provinces promotional meeting was held at the TOBB Union Center with the attendance of academicians.

TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the project is important for both the development of chambers and exchanges as well as the careers of the academicians taking part.

Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the cities would benefit from the development of chambers and exchanges, and ultimately, Turkey as a whole would benefit from it.

Touching on the importance of private sector for the increase of prosperity, the TOBB President said, “If the private sector takes the correct steps, we will have peace and prosperity. It is our responsibility to protect the interests and rights of our 1.5 million members, that of all sectors and 81 provinces. We do not represent just one provinces and sector. We have members of every tongue, race, creed and views. That is what makes us stronger than others. The power of unity. We are united for a shared goal. Our only goal is to make Turkey richer.”

- Rapidly changing world

Stressing the need to closely monitor the changes throughout the world, Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the world is rapidly changing, with 7 trends under discussion in regards to the global economy. He stated that the world’s finance map is changing.

Pointing out that the rules of trade are changing, the TOBB President stated that the large economic powers are forming alliances. Speaking in regards to the TTIP between the USA and the EU, Hisarcıklıoğlu pointed out the disadvantages of being left out of such a structure.

Stressing the fact that it is the era of importing entrepreneurs, Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the countries with more entrepreneurs would get ahead.

Emphasizing the need to prepare the Turkish private sector for this change, Hisarcıklıoğlu addressed the academicians, “The needs of every provinces and sector have changed. While we spoke about regional incentives, we are speaking about incentives per county now. Chambers and exchanges must lead the local development agenda. I believe that we can achieve this together. We anticipate the same level of support TEPAV provides from you at a local level. We need your experience and the accumulation of knowledge. We will think, discuss and decide together.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu ended by emphasizing the importance of teamwork with, “Birds of a feather stick together.”