Finland aims to boost bilateral trade with Türkiye to $5.5 billion
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen presents statements during an exclusive interview as part of her official visit to Istanbul, Turkiye on October 2, 2024. (Agıt Erdi Ulukaya/Anadolu Agency)
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen announced that Finland and Türkiye aim to increase their bilateral trade volume to $5.5 billion as the two countries continue to strengthen their economic ties.
The current trade volume stands at $2.9 billion, with both sides eager to expand trade and investment opportunities.
Bilateral trade on rise
Valtonen highlighted the growing trade relations between the two countries, stating: “The bilateral trade volume between Finland and Türkiye has reached $2.9 billion, and we aim to reach $5.5 billion as soon as possible.”
She praised the long-standing friendship between Finland and Türkiye, noting that the two nations have shared a 100-year partnership rooted in mutual respect and cooperation.
Strong economic, strategic partnerships
Valtonen emphasized Finland has consistently supported Türkiye’s bid for European Union membership, saying: “Finland has been a strong advocate for Türkiye’s EU membership over the years. In these times of conflict in Europe and the Middle East, it is crucial to consider the geostrategic perspective. Türkiye is an exceptionally important partner, and we value it as a future EU member.”
The Finnish foreign minister also noted the importance of reforming the Customs Union and improving trade conditions, stating that Turkish and Finnish companies have significant potential in sectors like innovation and services.
“The key is to invest in the future, and both countries have great potential for growth in this area,” she added.
Finnish business interest in Türkiye
Valtonen confirmed that Finnish businesses and investors have shown increasing interest in Türkiye. “There is a growing interest in Finland’s business community and investors in Türkiye. I would like to invite our Turkish friends to Helsinki for Slush, one of Europe’s most important technology and startup events,” she said.
Valtonen highlighted that the Slush event provides an excellent platform for companies, large and small, to showcase their innovations.
“It’s an environment where you can meet the best partners to take your ideas forward,” she added.
Growing Finnish business presence in Türkiye
Valtonen expressed optimism about the future, noting that the number of Finnish companies operating in Türkiye is expected to increase significantly.
“We are working hard to achieve this, and all the companies I’ve spoken with are happy and looking forward to grow,” she said.
During their official visit to Türkiye, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Valtonen discussed bilateral relations, the situation in the Middle East, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
Valtonen reiterated Finland’s support for Türkiye’s EU accession and the need to focus on how to advance the process.
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