Türkiye-EU high-level economic dialogue resumes after 6 years

The Türkiye-EU high-level economic dialogue officially commenced in Brussels after a six-year hiatus. The meeting is being held with the participation of Türkiye’s Minister of Treasury and Finance Mehmet Simsek and is being hosted at the European Commission’s headquarters in Brussels.

This important meeting marks the first such event since 2019 and is seen as a vital step toward strengthening economic relations between Türkiye and the European Union. In attendance are several high-ranking officials, including the European Commission’s Vice President for Economic and Monetary Affairs Valdis Dombrovskis and the Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.

Meeting overview, agenda items

The first part of the meeting will focus on discussing macroeconomic outlooks for both Türkiye and the EU, potential steps to enhance competitiveness, and necessary structural reforms. Minister Simsek and Commissioner Dombrovskis will co-chair these discussions.

The second part will bring together leading representatives from both Turkish and EU business communities, as well as ministers and commissioners, to explore joint investment and trade opportunities. Additionally, high-level officials from European financial institutions, including the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the European Development Bank (EDB), will participate.

Simsek is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with Commissioner Dombrovskis and Commissioner Kos to further discuss cooperation and deepen strategic partnerships between the two sides.

Significance of the dialogue

The Türkiye-EU dialogue is of great importance as it aims to fortify economic ties and enhance strategic collaboration between Türkiye and the European Union. This meeting is a continuation of a series of such dialogues, with previous meetings held in 2016, 2017, and 2019. Minister Simsek had represented Türkiye at the first dialogue meeting back in 2016.

The decision to resume these high-level meetings after six years highlights the mutual commitment to revitalizing economic relations and fostering deeper cooperation between Türkiye and the EU.