Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Speaking in the opening of the meeting, prior to Hisarcıklıoğlu's participation, TOBB Board Member Özer Matlı said the Turkey-Kosovo Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would increase the competitiveness of Turkish companies against companies of Serbia and Greece which enjoy a similar advantage.

In his speech here, Matlı said that after Kosovo's declaration of independence, they appreciated the developments in the creation of its legal infrastructure and transition to a market economy in a short time.

Stating that they support Kosovo's recognition and its involvement in international and regional organizations, Matlı said, “Trade relations between Turkey and Kosovo are on the increase. Our trade volume reached $345 million in 2019, up from $288 million in 2018.”

Matlı said there are significant infrastructure projects in Kosovo, such as airport construction and operation, highway construction, electricity distribution, as well as successful Turkish investments in many areas such as banking, health and food.

Kosovo Chamber of Commerce President Berat Rukiqi said they aim to further economic relations between Turkey and Kosovo.

Stating that Turkey supports Kosovo in all areas, Rukiqi said, “Good political relations between the two countries, as well as successful trade partnerships, must be established. Here, a great task falls on the relevant departments of the embassies.”

Following the speeches, Matlı and Rukiqi signed the “Turkey-Kosovo Chamber of Commerce and Industry Forum” establishment agreement.

Kosovo Ambassador to Ankara Ilir Dugolli also attended the meeting and exchanged views with M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu.