Portugal looks for Turkish investors

Portugal is looking for Turkish investors to invest in its international aviation company, airports and postal services, which are set for privatization in one year.  Speaking at the Turkey-Portugal Trade and Investment Forum hosted by the Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists of Turkey (TUSKON), Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Portas said that Portugal was willing to be stronger in 2013, following a recession process to be experienced this year. "As a result, we have introduced a privatization program. We invite Turkish firms to closely follow this process and invest in our country," Portas said, adding that Portugal has very good relations not only with Europe, but also with Atlantic, Africa, Latin America and Asia. "Portugal which also enjoys qualified workforce and a competition center consisting of worldwide famous brands is a safer country for investors than other countries in Europe. All of these qualities make us more attractive to investors," Portas said. The visiting minister also praised the reforms carried out by Turkey following the economic crisis of 2001. For his part, Development Minister Cevdet Yilmaz said that Turkey has reached a growth rate of 8.5 percent as from 2011, despite the political turmoil in its region and grave difficulties suffered by Europe. "Of course, this situation derives from our political stability and environment of confidence, a sound banking system and a convenient atmosphere for private sector. We will maintain such programs." Yilmaz added that trade between Turkey and Portugal amounted to around $1 billion, which should be mutually increased.