Madrid: Trkiye's trade minister emphasized the need for the European Union to incorporate Ankara into its new trade, competition, and industrial policies. The inclusion, he argued, would enhance the bloc's competitiveness and bolster Europe's economic security.
According to Anadolu Agency, Omer Bolat made these remarks during a meeting with Spanish Economy, Trade, and Business Minister Carlos Cuerpo in Madrid. The discussion centered on bilateral economic relations, Trkiye-EU ties, and recent global and regional economic developments. Bolat highlighted the importance of integrating Trkiye into the EU's emerging policies, such as the Industrial Acceleration Act, to significantly contribute to the EU's competitive edge and economic security.
Bolat identified Spain as one of Trkiye's key trading partners within the EU, describing the nations as strategic partners, friends, and allies. They also explored Trkiye's expectations for updating and more effectively implementing the Trkiye-EU Customs Union, which is crucial to Ankara's strong economic ties with EU member states. Public procurement was highlighted as another priority area to advance economic cooperation.
Furthermore, Bolat and Cuerpo agreed to convene the fourth meeting of the Trkiye-Spain Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETCO) in Madrid this fall, with robust participation from both countries' business communities. Spain ranks as Trkiye's fourth-largest trading partner within the EU, with annual bilateral trade amounting to approximately $20.5 billion. Bolat expressed the goal of increasing this trade volume to $25 billion annually in the medium term. He noted that the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations would continue to strengthen through innovative business initiatives and mutual trust.
In addition to economic discussions, Bolat congratulated Spain on its recent victory in securing the 2026 FIFA World Cup and expressed condolences for the recent wildfires in the country. He reaffirmed Ankara's support for Spain in handling the fires, noting that Trkiye had earlier dispatched two firefighting aircraft to assist in controlling the situation.