Lisbon: A delegation of Turkish contractors has arrived in Portugal to explore and negotiate involvement in a substantial infrastructure and superstructure project valued at approximately £100 billion (about $115.8 billion) planned for the next five years, as announced by the Turkish Contractors' Association (TMB) on Monday. The delegation's visit, organized in collaboration with the Turkish Ministry of Trade, is set to continue until Thursday, with visits to the cities of Lisbon and Porto.

According to Anadolu Agency, Turkish contractors are scheduled to engage in discussions with the Portuguese Infrastructure and Housing Ministry, Trade and Investment Agency, and other pertinent public institutions and organizations. These meetings aim to deliberate on large-scale investment projects, with a particular focus on fostering cooperation through bilateral talks with Portuguese firms.

A significant portion of the total investment, approximately $52.1 billion, is earmarked for infrastructure projects. The remaining funds, up to $115.8 billion, will be allocated to housing, transportation, energy, and urban development projects under public-private partnerships.

Erdal Eren, president of the TMB, highlighted the potential impact of the deal in Portugal, suggesting it could serve as a gateway for Turkish contractors into Europe. He noted, "Turkish contractors have undertaken more than 12,000 projects worth $546.5 billion in 137 countries to date, with 1,649 of these projects-valued at $55.4 billion-being in Europe."

Eren expressed optimism about the future, stating, "We aim for Turkish contractors to play an active role in Portugal and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries in the coming period, and we believe this visit will lay the foundation for long-term partnerships."