Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

In his speech there, Hisarcıklıoğlu said he was greatly pleased to be in Mersin, the shining star of the Mediterranean, noting that Mersin which adds value to Türkiye through its cultural richness and diversity has been a center of trade, production, and entrepreneurship throughout its history. Highlighting that Mersin is the gateway to logistics and exports in Türkiye, Hisarcıklıoğlu said, “Mersin is at the crossroads of the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Türkiye’s first free trade zone also began operations here. Türkiye’s second-largest container port is also located here.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu noted that the MTSO has always been held up as a model due to its 140-year history, strong institutional structure, the projects it has implemented, and the contributions it has made to the city, stating, “Initiatives are being launched in Mersin to develop and expand industry and create new industrial corridors. We have a solution-oriented Governor and Metropolitan Mayor in this city. Issues here are resolved at the local level.”

During the program, awards were also presented to the students who placed in the top three in the “Idea Bus Inter-High School Entrepreneurship and Innovative Projects 2026 Competition.”

Following the summit, TOBB President Hisarcıklıoğlu met with the presidents of the Mersin Provincial and District Chambers of Commerce and Industry. During the meeting, challenges facing the city and various sectors were discussed.