Ankara: Trkiye has the opportunity to strategically position itself with the European Union in light of global trade wars, changing US administration, and geopolitical conflicts, according to a statement by the head of the Turkish Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) at a recent news conference.

According to Anadolu Agency, DEIK President Nail Olpak highlighted Trkiye's substantial bilateral trade volume of $327 billion with the EU, describing it as a balanced process. Olpak emphasized the importance of analyzing the rapidly changing global agenda and its economic impacts. He noted that Europe must make strategic decisions following its administrative changes and budget allocations for various project frameworks.

Olpak pointed out that geopolitical dynamics have shifted, with countries like Saudi Arabia and Syria becoming more prominent, particularly with the end of the Baathist regime and Saudi Arabia's growing influence. He stressed the need for Trkiye to focus on areas where there were previously fewer issues, citing the visa issue with the EU as a primary concern.

Olpak also mentioned progress in upgrading the Trkiye-EU Customs Union but expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. Meetings had been suspended due to the crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Trkiye-EU high-level economic dialogue has been on hold. Despite this, Olpak noted recent positive developments in EU-Trkiye relations.

Mehmet Ali Yalcindag, chairperson of DEIK's Trkiye-Europe Business Councils, described the situation as a historic opportunity for both parties. Following a DEIK meeting in Italy attended by 600 businesspeople, he highlighted President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's call for increased engagement with European countries. Yalcindag emphasized the importance of Turkish businesspeople visiting key European countries to strengthen economic ties.

Yalcindag also remarked on the disruption caused by former US President Donald Trump and the subsequent discussions in Moscow on reshaping global economic tables. He urged European partners to take the initiative and include Trkiye in their strategic plans, stressing the EU's significant economic stature compared to the US.

He concluded by urging Europe to actively involve Trkiye, suggesting that a redefined position at the global table could reinforce the EU's influence and stability.