Erdo?an calls on US businesses to invest in Turkey

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an has called on U.S. businesses not to hesitate in investing in Turkey. 

"I am inviting you from this platform to invest more in Turkey," Erdo?an said March 30, noting Turkish entrepreneurs' concerns about investing in the U.S. that are related to legislative differences, competitive environment and geographical distance. 

"I am calling on our entrepreneurs [to] think big, make firm plans for the middle and long run, establish partnerships with local firms and expand your commercial network to this side of the ocean," Erdo?an said during a meeting with leaders of forthcoming U.S. businesses, which included Coca-Cola chairman and CEO Muhtar Kent, Lockheed Martin Chief Executive Marillyn Hewson, P&G President and Chief Executive Officer David Taylor, Boeing President and Chief Executive Officer Raymon Corner and Citigroup Chairman Michael O'Neill. 

"Turkey will undoubtedly stand with you," he added.

Trade between Turkey and the U.S. hit $17.5 billion in 2015, while $150 billion moved between Ankara and Europe during the same period, according to Erdo?an.  
   
Turkish and American business professionals need to help expand the trade between Turkey and the U.S., Erdo?an.      

Noting economic opportunities in Turkey, Erdo?an addressed American investors' concerns about investing in the country.      

"So far there is no businessman who regrets investing in Turkey or has been exposed to unlawful policies or had difficulties in using his commercial earnings in Turkey," Erdo?an said. 

"It is a reality that there are some problems in our region and that they have some adverse effects but this will never stop Turkey on its journey toward its goals."  

The...