Turkish trade delegation goes to Syria

There are also representatives from Gaziantep Trade Chamber (GTO), Gaziantep Industry Chamber (GSO) and Gaziantep Organized Industry Zone (GOSB) in the delegation who went to Syria upon the invitation of Aleppo Governor Halid Adi.

The delegation firstly visited Aleppo Governor Adi. Speaking during the meeting, Syrian Governor Adi said that Turkey and Syria had historical and cultural ties and the strategy of developing together was the rightist way. He stressed that a new period started in bilateral relations with the visit of Syrian President Asad to Turkey, adding that he believed the rapidly developing relations would have more positive repercussions particularly on Alleppo and Gaziantep provinces which were border cities.

Bilgin said in his part that a compromise was reached on Syria’s opening a consulate in Gaziantep and opening border trade centres in four regions on Syrian border, adding that "this is very important for citizens of both countries. The consulate in Gaziantep will be very useful particularly for our businessmen, exporters and tradesmen who make trade with Syria and who have to carry out their visa procedures in Ankara. The commercial relations between the two countries will increase due to lessening of the red tape. We will have a technical study about border trade centres to be opened in Hatay, Gaziantep, Sanlıurfa and Kilis provinces. We are very pleased with the positive outcome of the negotiations carried out with Syria approximately for one year to this end."

Issues such as foundation and operation of Border Trade Centres, studies regarding opening of Syrian consulate in Gaziantep will be taken up during the official contacts of the Turkish delegation. Meanwhile officials also aim to improve economic, social and cultural relations between the two cities (Gaziantep and Aleppo).

Gaziantep and Aleppo Governors are expected to sign a protocol on the agreed issues on Sunday.