Palestine emphasizes stronger trade ties with Türkiye
Palestine Ambassador to Ankara Faed Mustafa. (AA Photo)
Palestine must continue to deepen its trade relations with neighboring countries, particularly Türkiye, which remains its most significant trade partner, Palestinian Ambassador Faed Mustafa said on Wednesday at the World Halal Summit in Istanbul.
Addressing the four-day event, Mustafa emphasized the growing ties between Türkiye and Palestine, calling the summit a critical platform for fostering commercial collaboration. “Türkiye and Palestine’s relationship is improving day by day,” he said, describing the summit as an opportunity to advance these connections.
The event, which features seminars on halal-related topics, aims to increase global awareness and cooperation in the sector, with Anadolu Agency serving as its global communication partner.
The ambassador painted a grim picture of the situation in Palestine, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis stemming from protracted conflict and occupation. “The Palestinian people are groaning from the pain of war, especially in the current difficult and harsh conditions,” Mustafa said.
He urged global solidarity, describing it as a moral obligation. “The Israeli occupation has been continuing in the Palestinian territories for many years. The pain multiplies day by day. Solidarity with the Palestinian people has become an obligation and a duty of every free person,” he added.
Mustafa expressed gratitude to supporters worldwide, recognizing their role in advocating for Palestinian dignity and freedom. “You express to the whole world that Palestine is not alone,” he said.
The ambassador also highlighted the economic struggles resulting from Israeli policies, which he said stifled industrial growth and sustainable development. “Palestine is suffering great pain in the field of industry and trade as a result of the theft of all its wealth due to economic and political settler policies,” Mustafa noted.
Despite these challenges, he emphasized Palestine’s rich natural resources and its potential contribution to the global halal trade market, underscoring its diverse range of halal products.
Türkiye’s support for Palestine
Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat echoed Mustafa’s sentiments on solidarity, reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Palestine politically, economically, and commercially. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Bolat condemned Israel’s actions, referring to them as “genocidal policies,” and reiterated Türkiye’s role as a steadfast ally to Palestine.
“Under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Türkiye remains the voice of our Palestinian brothers and sisters on international platforms,” Bolat stated. He noted Türkiye’s trade measures, which include exemptions for Palestine while suspending all commercial activities with Israel.
Bolat also highlighted Palestine’s status as a partner country at the Halal Expo, held in Istanbul with support from Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade.
In May 2024, Türkiye halted all export and import operations with Israel, citing its “aggression against Palestine in violation of international law and human rights.”
The World Halal Summit continues to serve as a testament to the growing cooperation between Türkiye and Palestine, offering a platform for dialogue and support amid ongoing challenges.
