Ekren: "Turkey is in line to become a global actor"

Addressing the fifth meeting of the Turkish Trade and Industry Council held by the Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodities Exchanges (TOBB), Deputy Prime Minister Nazim Ekren said yesterday that the government is taking all necessary steps to minimize the impact of the global economic crisis, adding that as a country highly integrated with the global economic system, Turkey cannot escape the crisis' impact. With the 17th-largest economy in the world and the sixth in Europe, Turkey is in line to become a global actor, not just a regional one, he added. Stressing the importance of cooperation and mutual understanding between the government and financial and non-financial private sector players, he said a strong private sector, effective coordination, and reduced red tape would fuel economic growth. "The most important thing is that we maintain stability in the domestic market," Ekren said. He stressed that Turkey should have a disciplined fiscal policy and balance public expenditures. He said the government should carefully follow developments in both domestic and international markets so it can take the necessary steps. Turkey must get ready for the future with a strong economy so it can stand on its own two feet, Ekren said. He also stressed the importance of political stability, calling this the guarantor of a strong economy.