We congratulate the incoming mayors and wish them success in their terms in office, focused on quality of life, smart city technologies and sustainable development goals. Now that the municipal elections have been completed, the time ahead of us free from elections and political campaigning is an important opportunity for economic, social and political reforms.
Tighter monetary and fiscal policies prescribed in the New Economic Program introduced by the government on September 20, 2018, should be prioritized for building economic confidence. At the same time, we look forward to rapid implementation of structural reforms, beginning with the investment climate, education, digital transformation and labor markets.
During this new reform period, our primary objective should be to produce lasting solutions to our economic problems. Only a comprehensive economic approach that adheres to free market principles, strengthens the independence and transparency of regulatory agencies, commits to structural reforms that increase competitiveness and diminish economic weaknesses can be effective.
Rule of law, freedoms, independent institutions and a free market economy are fundamental to this comprehensive economic approach. Progress in these areas are central to Turkey’s democracy, national unity and global competitiveness.
In a rapidly changing global economy, a broader customs union that includes services, agriculture, the digital single market and government procurement, while remaining fully committed to the objective of EU accession, is important to Turkey’s national interests. We strongly believe that Turkey, as a Eurasian hub that is open to the world and firmly integrated with the European economy, can be a rising country in the 21stcentury.
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