Visa obstacles, the modernization of the Customs Union, and high-tech projects took center stage at Ankara Chamber of Industry’s 14th Ambassadors’ Reception
The Ankara Chamber of Industry (ASO) hosted its 14th Ambassadors’ Reception at the Ethnography Museum, bringing together the business community and members of the diplomatic corps. The event was attended by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, more than 200 ambassadors and diplomats from over 100 countries, as well as distinguished guests from politics, business, and academia.
M. FERHAT YÜKSEL
In his opening speech, ASO President Seyit Ardıç underlined Ankara’s critical role in Turkey’s industrial and technological ecosystem. “Ankara has become the hub of innovation and technology, home to defense industry giants, universities, and R&D centers. Among Turkey’s 81 provinces, Ankara ranks first in technological development,” he said.
He added that the reception not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also builds trust and cooperation between nations.
Technology Hub and Free Zone
Ardıç highlighted ASO’s flagship projects, the ASO Technology Hub and the Free Zone. He announced that the Technology Hub, to be built on 1.2 million square meters, will break ground in 2026. “Once completed, it will host over 800 companies, create 18,000 jobs, and contribute $1.5 billion to Ankara’s exports,” he noted.
On the planned Free Zone in Temelli, Ardıç stated: “More than 200 companies will operate there, generating 40,000 jobs and adding $4 billion to our exports.”
Visa Challenges
Addressing one of the most pressing problems facing Turkish businesses, Ardıç drew attention to visa restrictions. Speaking directly to EU ambassadors, he said: “We cannot even obtain a visa to pick up machinery purchased from your countries. We expect your support for the business community on this matter.”
Modernization of the Customs Union
Ardıç also stressed the need to update the Customs Union, in place since 1995. “The current agreement is limited to industrial goods and processed agricultural products. Modernization would serve the interests of both Turkey and Europe,” he said.
A Humanitarian Call on Gaza
Turning to the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza, Ardıç made an emotional appeal: “The cries of innocent children and the grief of mothers break our hearts. The killing of civilians and depriving survivors of basic needs is morally and legally unacceptable. This is not just sorrow, but a call to uphold human dignity.”
Yılmaz’s Messages on Economy and Diplomacy
Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz underlined the importance of the reception and thanked ASO’s leadership. “ASO’s visionary projects play a vital role in Turkey’s success. Our government has decided to support the ASO Technology Hub,” he said.
On the economy, Yılmaz stated: “Since June 2024, annual inflation has dropped by 42.5 points. By the end of 2025, we expect inflation to fall below 30 percent. By 2028, we aim to reduce it to single digits.”
Outlining the goals of the Medium-Term Program, he added: “We plan to create 2.5 million new jobs, reduce unemployment below 8 percent, push goods exports beyond $300 billion, and increase services exports to $150 billion.”
Highlighting Ankara’s role, Yılmaz said: “Our defense industry has reached a domestic production rate of over 80 percent. Ankara is a leading center for high-tech production.”
A New Chapter with the EU
On relations with the European Union, Yılmaz stressed: “We can move forward with a win-win approach, from modernizing the Customs Union to easing visa procedures. With a positive agenda, we can build stronger and more productive cooperation.”
He also emphasized Turkey’s active diplomatic role in global crises: “As a country that can speak to all sides, Turkey continues to contribute to peace and stability, including efforts to end the war in Ukraine.”
Following the speeches, guests enjoyed a music performance by the Ankara City Orchestra in the museum’s garden, providing a cultural backdrop to further conversations on cooperation and partnership.
