PRESIDENT ERDOGAN: “DEIK, REPRESENTATIVE OF THE INTERNATIONAL STRENGTH OF THE TURKISH BUSINESS WORLD”

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in his speech at DEİK’s 38th Ordinary General Assembly and Masters of Respect Awards Ceremony, highlighted DEİK’s 40-year journey and the strength of the Turkish business world in the international arena

Türkiye is becoming a sought-after player at the peace table today. Our country believes in itself, has confidence in itself, and is moving steadily toward its goals with self-assurance. In this process, the contribution of all our businesspeople working under the umbrella of DEIK has been immense. They have contributed to our country’s economic rise and brought Turkish products to the farthest corners of the world. I also pray for God’s mercy upon our DEIK members who have passed away.

I also remember our 8th President, Turgut Özal, who pioneered the establishment of DEIK, with respect. His vision and courage live on today as a gift to our country. Like a sapling planted 40 years ago, DEIK has grown into a mighty oak tree today, with 153 business councils, 93 founding organizations, and nearly 5,000 members reaching across the globe. This is the most beautiful demonstration of both the efforts of the past and the legacy left for the future.

DEIK’s 40 years of experience and expertise guarantee that it will continue on its path even stronger. Today, at the 4th Masters of Respect Awards Ceremony, I congratulate our masters who inspire with their achievements, open new paths, and create value. I express my gratitude to each of them for their contributions to our economy.

DEIK is not only the representative of the Turkish private sector; it is also the diplomatic voice of our business world. In the second century of our Republic, I expect all our civil society organizations, especially DEIK, to continue working tirelessly to increase our country’s weight in global trade.

As we increase our country’s economic and diplomatic influence, we draw strength from DEIK’s vision and experience. The accu mulated expertise over 40 years will ensure Türkiye’s stronger presence on the world stage in the years to come. On this occasion, I wish the DEIK family many more successful 40 years. Our path is clear, our future is bright.