Turkey’s largest open-air shopping center, Laleli, hosted the 5th Laleli Fashion Shopping Festival organized by LASİAD. The festival kicked off on August 8, 2016, with an opening ceremony held at the Laleli Double Tree Hilton Hotel.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana in Ankara, Ibrahim Abass, the Mayor of Fatih, Mustafa Demir, the Commercial Attaché of the Embassy of the Republic of Ghana, John HawkinsAsideu, the Representative of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, Ramil Gubeydullin, the Director of Culture and Tourism of Istanbul, Nedret Apaydın, the Vice President of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO), Dursun Topçu, the Vice President of Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (IHKİB), Kemalettin Güneş, and other notable figures.
LASİAD hosted a total of 170 buyers from 7 countries. LASİAD’s President, Gıyasettin Eyüpkoca, emphasized in a press statement that the festival, held at the Double Tree By Hilton Hotel, would not be solely focused on fashion shows and entertainment, as in previous years. He attributed this change to the events of the failed coup attempt on July 15, expressing respect for the soldiers, police, and citizens who lost their lives. Eyüpkoca also highlighted that despite the circumstances, no invited country declined the invitation, stating, “In defiance of the coup, we continue to produce and export.”
The festival commenced with a speech by LASİAD’s President, Gıyasettin Eyüpkoca, who emphasized the importance of continuity in all aspects of life. He expressed joy in sharing the honor and pride of organizing the fifth festival during these challenging times, stating that the colorful festival was the greatest proof of the guests’ trust in Turkey.
Following Eyüpkoca’s speech, Mustafa Demir, the Mayor of Fatih, spoke, expressing pride in LASİAD’s achievements and progress. He also mentioned the recent massive democracy and martyrs’ rally at Yenikapı, where 5 million people gathered, including the Laleli tradesmen and businessmen.
After the speeches, Eyüpkoca, Demir, and other participants toured the stands, welcoming the guests. Following a photo session, Demir held a meeting with the protocol team before leaving the hotel. The program continued with B2B meetings between Laleli companies and the 170-member purchasing delegation from 7 countries. B2B meetings were set to continue on Tuesday, August 9th.
