Minister of Economy and Infrastructure, Chiril Gaburici met today with Turkish Minister of Economy, Nihat Zeybekci. The meeting took place within the Moldova - Turkey Economic Forum, held in Istanbul. The parties appreciated the positive dynamic of the commercial - economical relations, mentioning the importance of organizing joint economic forums, that contribute to creating optimal conditions to intensify cooperation of economic agents from both states.

During the meeting, Minister of Economy and Infrastructure of Republic of Moldova greeted the successful implementation of the Free Trade Agreement between the two country, which came into force on November 1 2016, meant to promote common trade, develop bilateral economic relations, extend trade, as well as create conditions to attract investments, especially to develop mixed investment in those two states.

Here, Chiril Gaburici highlighted the importance to attract foreign interments in Republic of Moldova's economy, especially in agriculture, food industry, energy sector, including finding alternative energy sources.

"Ensuring protection to investments and offering attracting business environment with facilities for potential investors are the priorities of Republic of Moldova's Government, to develop the national economy, ensure stability and predictability in business. Turkish companies developed many successful enterprises, including in the food, cell phone, medicine and hotel industries. Turkish business is also very active in Găgăuzia" Chiril Gaburici said.

In his turn, Turkish Minister of the Economy, Nihat Zeybekci, reiterated that his country wishes to continue consolidating the commercial - economical relations and identify reciprocal investment opportunities, mentioning that trade partnership with Republic of Moldova has a good potential.

The parties have also highlighted the importance of organizing meetings of the Intergovernmental Committee Moldova - Turkey on bilateral cooperation in trade, economy, investments, industry, SMEs, energy, transport, agriculture and environmental protection.

According to official data, the trade volume between Moldova and Turkey, in 2017, amounted to 408.4 million USD, growing by 22.47% compared to 2016. Turkey ranks 7th in Merchandise Trade among participant countries, owning 5.63% of the total trade of Republic of Moldova.