29.04.2025 11:32
The Minister of Treasury and Finance, Mehmet Şimşek, made important statements regarding inflation targets and Turkey's relations with the EU. Speaking clearly about achieving the inflation target, Şimşek noted that there might be a slight slowdown in growth; however, he mentioned that better-than-expected results would be achieved in the current account deficit.
The Minister of Treasury and Finance, Mehmet Şimşek, made important statements regarding inflation and growth. Minister Şimşek answered questions about the latest developments in the economic agenda during a joint broadcast of Habertürk-Bloomberg HT. Şimşek stated, "We have no doubts regarding inflation. There may be a slowdown related to growth. Our most important headline is structural transformation," and continued his statements as follows:
"WE DO NOT SEE A PROBLEM WITH THE EU"
We do not see a problem with economic integration with the EU. Our membership has been hindered for a long time due to political motives. The problem is largely with the European Union, not us, because they blocked it while everything was going well in Turkey. Updating the Customs Union is beneficial for both the EU and Turkey. The issue here is political interventions.
"THE EU NEEDS TURKEY"
"The EU needs Turkey in defense, security, and many other areas. Our dialogue with the new EU administration is very strong. Due to good relations, they subjected us to the lowest customs duties; this is a tremendous advantage for us.
"WE HAVE REACHED A VERY GOOD POINT WITH THE USA"
We have reached a very good point with the USA, especially in the fields of energy and defense. Turkey has made significant strides in defense. While we were once among the world's largest importers, we are now on the path to becoming the 11th largest exporter in the world. Technology, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, is another important headline in our relations. We want to triple our trade volume with the USA and reach 100 billion dollars. If the USA continues to impose high taxes on Turkey's competitors, there will be great opportunities for Turkey if the Russia-Ukraine war ends. In service exports, Turkey is one of the most advantageous and fastest countries. If Libya, Syria, and Ukraine are to be rebuilt, Turkey will play a leading role.