Economic independence integral part of national sovereignty: DEİK’s Olpak

ISTANBUL, On the occasion of July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day, Nail Olpak, president of the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEİK), emphasized the importance of economic independence as a cornerstone of national sovereignty. Speaking during a public statement, Olpak condemned the failed coup attempt of 2016 and praised the resilience of Turkey's democratic institutions and the collective resolve of its citizens in safeguarding the nation’s values. The statement came amid heightened discussions on the role of economic autonomy in maintaining political stability and international influence. Olpak highlighted how the attempted coup had sought to undermine not just democracy, but also economic stability, industrial capacity, and the long-term prospects of the country. According to him, Turkey managed to overcome these challenges through the strength of national unity and institutional cohesion, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening both domestic and international frameworks. Olpak pointed to the sustained growth of the Turkish economy over the last ten years, noting that despite external pressures and internal reforms, the country maintained continuous progress in production, exports, employment, and investment. He cited specific figures showing that per capita income had risen from approximately $10,900 to nearly $18,000, while Turkey’s share in global exports increased to 1.07 percent. These metrics underscored the resilience of the private sector and the effectiveness of policies aimed at fostering economic expansion. Emphasizing the broader implications of these achievements, Olpak stressed that Turkey’s robust economy, vibrant private sector, and innovative entrepreneurial environment positioned the country as a key player in an increasingly complex global landscape. He argued that these elements were particularly crucial in navigating the evolving dynamics of international relations and economic interdependence. In addition, Olpak outlined the government’s plans to further bolster the economy through a comprehensive reform package introduced by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The measures aim to enhance production capabilities, promote high-value-added services, and attract international investments. By doing so, he suggested, Turkey could solidify its status as a dependable partner and a secure destination for foreign capital. Olpak also highlighted the strategic advantages that make Turkey an attractive location for businesses, including its well-developed production infrastructure, geographic centrality in Europe and Asia, and a skilled labor force. He noted that DEİK, through its network of 153 Business Councils, continues to play a vital role in shaping economic policy and advancing Turkey’s interests in global markets. Looking ahead, Olpak expressed confidence that ongoing efforts to modernize the economy and improve governance structures would enable Turkey to maintain its competitive edge and contribute meaningfully to international trade and cooperation. His remarks reflected a broader vision of economic self-reliance as a fundamental pillar of national identity and security.