Our country managed to manage the global crisis in 2008 very accurately with the economic and financial discipline strategy it initiated after the 2000s. So much so that, while the crisis and its effects bypassed our country, we also tested our economic resilience. As a developing country, we have seen through experience that our economy is progressing on a down-to-earth path. In the following years, we went through many difficult periods both economically and politically. All of these troubles, which we cannot finish counting, especially the attacks on our national unity and solidarity, have been overcome with the immense wisdom and superior foresight of our nation. Of course, while these struggles were overcome one by one, our economy inevitably had to be affected by these negativities. I believe that a correct analysis is important at this point.
As we always state, as Laleli, every global problem directly affects us. The exact opposite of this situation is undoubtedly possible. Possible problems that may occur in our local economic infrastructure may also negatively affect our global trade. For this reason, the economic power and sufficiency of our country should be considered very important for us. At this point, it is useful to be objective when analyzing. I would like to emphasize once again the importance of comparison, especially in economics. While criticizing ourselves, we can never ignore the economic issues that have not been resolved for years in EU countries such as Spain and Greece. The situation of these economies, which are tried to be kept alive with the support of the EU, is problematic at a level incomparable to our country. While centuries-old factories in Italy are closing down one by one, the German economy is showing signs of crisis. Despite all its underground and surface resources, it can be said that the economy in Russia is not going very well. To assume that the stagnation experienced around the world based on the US-China tension is solely in Turkey would be nothing but deceiving ourselves.
We must know that we are in an unnamed global recession. Moreover, we do not have natural resources like our neighbors and we live in a geography surrounded by a ring of fire. Despite all these difficulties, we are one of the calm and growing ports of the region with our strong SMEs and stable political structure. When you fix one leg of the compass on Ankara, there are wars, crises, tension and problems at every point where the other leg touches. All the current negative news in the world arises from this region. It is not easy to stand tall and grow in such a problematic geography, especially in such an economically stagnant period. Achieving this, let alone being able to live in unity and solidarity, should be seen as a great success. While our neighbors are falling apart, we, one way or another, preserve and strengthen our hopes for the future. I have no doubt that we will turn this crisis period into an opportunity with the reformist steps we will take in economic and legal terms. As a nation, we have the power and belief to achieve this. Türkiye will continue to give hope to its surroundings and be the companion of the oppressed. As business people, our duty will be to work harder than ever within the framework of this mission and vision. Let us not forget that this republic we established was realized in much greater deprivation and poverty. Let us know that today we have even more reasons to reach for the future and be successful. It is our greatest responsibility to raise our young and dynamic population in the perspective of rational and national values and to prepare them for the future. I attach great importance to the fact that every individual in our country has this awareness. Our education community, in particular, has a great responsibility here. If we manage to bring together the energy of young people with the power of industry with their support, we can build a much more beautiful Turkey together.
On this occasion, I congratulate your 29 October Republic Day and hope that our Republic’s journey to the level of contemporary civilizations in its 96th year will bring you health, peace and happiness.
Giyasettin Eyyüpkoca
