The fifth Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum wrapped up on Friday in Istanbul, following two days of intensive discussions aimed at enhancing trade and investment relations between Türkiye and African countries. This significant event was co-hosted by Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade and the African Union Commission’s Department of Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Mining, under the guidance of the Turkish Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK).
Representatives from various African nations attended the forum, including Morocco, represented by Secretary of State for Foreign Trade Omar Hejira. During the opening session, Hejira emphasized King Mohammed VI’s commitment to fostering a balanced and mutually beneficial strategic partnership between Türkiye and Africa, with a particular focus on co-development and creating value.
In a dedicated panel discussing “Pharmaceutical Industries and Medical Equipment,” Hejira showcased Morocco’s advancements in the pharmaceutical sector, asserting its role as a vital contributor to both health sovereignty and industrial development. His remarks underscore the growing importance of the industry in driving economic growth and resilience.
Throughout the forum, Hejira engaged in bilateral discussions with numerous African officials to explore avenues for enhancing economic collaboration, promoting reciprocal investments, and fortifying trade exchanges. Notably, he met with Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat to address the existing trade deficit between Morocco and Türkiye, seeking strategies to improve access for Moroccan products in the Turkish market while also promoting Turkish investments in Morocco.
In his closing remarks, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan urged participants to transition from discussions to actionable initiatives, advocating for joint trade and investment projects that would generate value, create job opportunities, and bolster the economic sovereignty of African nations. The forum not only highlighted the commitment to enhancing relations but also opened doors for future partnerships that could lead to sustainable economic development across the continent.