Türkiye urges rules-based trade, warns on protectionism at OECD summit

Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat warned against a growing wave of protectionist measures at the annual OECD Ministerial Council Meeting in Paris on Friday, calling instead for the strengthening of the rules-based multilateral trade system centered on the World Trade Organization. Speaking at the two-day summit chaired by Finland, Bolat emphasized that trade liberalization remains the sole key to economic development and global progress, citing Türkiye's export-driven growth over the past two decades as evidence of successful industrial policy liberalization. He stated that cooperation and initiatives promoting free trade are vital for the global economy, adding that restrictive measures would undermine rather than support recovery efforts.

Ukraine FTA and reconstruction forum

Bolat held comprehensive talks with Ukrainian Deputy Premier Taras Kachka regarding the pending Türkiye-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement, which Ankara ratified three years ago and Kyiv is now finalizing. "We hope that the Türkiye-Ukraine FTA can enter into force without much delay," Bolat said, noting that both officials also discussed reconstruction efforts following the conflict. The Turkish side proposed hosting the third Ukraine Reconstruction Forum in Türkiye this September — an offer the Ukrainian delegation accepted, according to the minister's statement.

Talks with Canada and US

During bilateral meetings on the sidelines, Bolat discussed expanding aviation links with Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu, noting that weekly flights between Türkiye and Canada had recently increased from 12 to 21. The ministers also reviewed ongoing discussions between energy ministers regarding March's agreement on constructing CANDU-type nuclear reactors, while Bolat highlighted significant Canadian investor interest in Türkiye's mining sector. Separately, the trade minister met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to address outstanding issues in Türkiye-US trade relations, though no specific agreements were announced.

Bulgaria customs and French business ties

Bolat met with Bulgarian Deputy Economy Minister Krasimir Yakimov to discuss boosting annual trade volume from $9 billion toward a $10 billion target, focusing on easing congestion at three major customs crossings. He requested additional measures to expedite crossings during the summer months when Turkish immigrants in Bulgaria travel frequently, adding that the next Türkiye-Bulgaria Joint Customs Committee will convene in Sofia next week. Earlier in his visit, Bolat also held talks with French Foreign Trade Delegate Minister Nicolas Forissier and met members of the French Business and Industry Association (MEDEF) alongside Turkish business representatives under the World Turkish Business Council (DTIK).