14TH WCI Forum concludes today in Istanbul after strengthening Türkiye-Africa ties

Turkish and African business leaders, policymakers, and diplomats gathered for the final day of the 14th World Cooperation of Industries (WCI) Forum in İstanbul, as two days of high-level dialogue, trade talks, and sectoral cooperation come to a close.

The forum, which brought together commercial delegations from across Africa with Türkiye’s leading manufacturers and exporters, served as a platform to deepen economic partnerships and chart a shared roadmap for the future.

On the closing day, participants reflected on key outcomes, including a surge in bilateral trade, new defense industry agreements, and a shared commitment to sustainable cooperation beyond traditional aid models.

Mr. Utku Bengisu at the 14th WCI Forum

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TRADE VOLUME NEARLY SEVEN TIMES HIGHER SINCE 2003

Speaking at the forum, Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gürcan underscored the concrete results of Türkiye’s multi-dimensional engagement with Africa. He noted that trade volume between Türkiye and Africa, which stood at $5.4 billion in 2003, had reached approximately $40 billion by 2025—a nearly sevenfold increase.

“In 2025 alone, bilateral trade volume with African countries increased by 9 percent compared to the previous year,” Gürcan said.

He emphasized that Türkiye is no longer only a recipient of investment but an active investor abroad, deepening economic ties through strategic projects.

“Given the uncertainty and unpredictability in the global economy, we believe it is essential to diversify and deepen the existing technological links between Türkiye and Africa. This will allow us to positively transform our bilateral relations and unlock new opportunities for collaboration.”

Gürcan also stressed the need for an updated roadmap in response to Africa’s growing global significance. “As a ministry, we will proceed with a strategy aimed at advancing trade and economic relations with African countries through a refined vision in the 2025 period. Within this framework, Türkiye is positioned to become a key trade partner of the African Continental Free Trade Area.”

DEFENSE COOPERATION TAKES CENTER STAGE

Deputy Minister of National Defense Salih Ayhan highlighted the expanding role of Türkiye’s defense industry in Africa, moving beyond traditional supplier relationships toward strategic partnership.

“Our Bayraktar TB2 UAVs, ATAK helicopters, and high-tech defense systems are now becoming guarantees of peace across a vast geography—from Somalia to Nigeria, from Libya to Senegal,” Ayhan stated.

“The Türkiye model we present today is not merely about product sales. It is built on comprehensive training support, local capacity building, and most importantly, technology transfer. We see Africa, with its young population and immense potential, as one of the world’s rising stars.”

‘STRATEGIC AND INCLUSIVE COOPERATION IS NEEDED’

Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Gambia’s Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, stressed that in an era of digital transformation, geopolitical fragmentation, and climate crisis, no nation can grow in isolation.

“We need a cooperation model that is intentional, strategic, and inclusive—one that fosters shared values, technology transfer, capacity development, and equitable partnerships. For Gambia, cooperation is not just a slogan; it is a national strategy.”

Ceesay pointed to the $66 million trade volume between Türkiye and Gambia in 2025 as a strong foundation, but noted significant potential for growth through increased exports, greater Turkish investment, upgraded port and logistics infrastructure, and deeper ties in vocational training and value-added production.

Gambia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Badjie, reinforced the continent’s readiness to engage.

“Africa continues to be one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with a vast population and an expanding market. On behalf of my government and ministry, I say this: Africa is ready—and Gambia is ready to welcome you.”

FORUM WRAPS WITH B2B MEETINGS AND EXHIBITIONS

The final day of the forum featured intensive B2B meetings, sponsor company presentations, and exhibition booths, offering concrete leads for future collaboration.

Organizers noted high levels of participation and optimism, with many delegates describing this year’s forum as a turning point in Türkiye-Africa economic relations.

The 14th WCI Forum officially closes this evening in İstanbul.