Türkiye, China establish joint venture to boost trade in Xinjiang
Turkish and Chinese officials pose for a group photo during the opening ceremony of China-Türkiye Lecanrong (Xinjiang) Trade Development Co., Ltd. in Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, on Feb. 22, 2025. (AA Photo)
The Turkish and Chinese governments have agreed to establish a joint venture to enhance trade between Türkiye and China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
The company, China-Türkiye Lecanrong (Xinjiang) Trade Development Inc., was officially announced during a ceremony in Urumqi on Saturday.
Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gurcan visited Xinjiang for the company’s inauguration and attended the China-Türkiye Trade Center opening ceremony in the Urumqi Free Trade Zone.
The center was established with the support of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Government and was inaugurated by the China Business Development and Friendship Association.
Further steps to enhance collaboration were agreed
At the event, Gurcan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening ties with China as part of its Distant Countries Strategy. He highlighted the potential for increased cooperation in tourism, logistics, education, and creative industries.
Gurcan also pointed out Türkiye’s strategic advantages, including its geographical position, young and dynamic workforce, strong manufacturing capabilities, and Customs Union Agreement with the European Union. He noted that these factors present significant investment opportunities for international investors.
Following the ceremony, Gurcan toured a 270-square-meter (2906 square feet) exhibition space showcasing Turkish products and received briefings from officials.
Accompanied by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Beijing, Ismail Hakki Musa, Gurcan held meetings with high-ranking officials from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, including Ma Xingrui, Communist Party Secretary of Xinjiang, and Erkin Tuniyaz, Chairman of the Regional Government.
During the discussions, both sides conducted a comprehensive review of cooperation opportunities and explored potential areas for mutually beneficial partnerships. The parties also agreed on the need for concrete steps to enhance collaboration in key strategic sectors, including economy, trade, culture, and technology, in light of evolving global dynamics.
