Istanbul, February 3, 2026 – The Global Albanian Business People Economic Summit, organized by the Global Albanian Business People Association, was held in Istanbul, bringing together prominent figures from politics and the business world. The summit focused on strengthening cultural and economic ties between Turkey and the Balkans, increasing trade volume, and exploring joint investment opportunities. Hundreds of businesspeople attended the meetings, which were described as one of the most productive gatherings in recent years.
Economic Cooperation to Be Enhanced
The summit saw the participation of Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gürcan, North Macedonian Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi, Albanian Consul General in Istanbul Armand Shandro, Global Albanian Business People President Ömer Nura, Global Albanian Business People Turkey President Muhammed Şerifi, and Montenegro Edirne Honorary Consul and businessman Naser Alim, alongside hundreds of businesspeople from Turkey, Europe, and the Balkans. Participants convened in Istanbul with the aim of bolstering cultural connections and expanding economic cooperation.
Call for Fair Trade and Record Trade Volume
With a potential exceeding 150 billion dollars and involving over 300 businesspeople, the summit addressed changes in trade strategies in light of global developments. Emphasis was placed on the necessity of joint action for a fair trade system, and the importance of bilateral trade between Turkey and the Balkans reaching new record levels was highlighted.
Turkey’s Export Records Continue
Speaking at the summit’s gala dinner, Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gürcan stated that Turkey continues to break export records, with exports rising from 35 billion dollars in 2002 to 273 billion dollars today. Gürcan emphasized that free trade agreements with Balkan countries and the mutual promotion of investments have strengthened economic relations.
Summit as a Bridge for All Areas
Global Albanian Business People Turkey President Muhammed Şerifi noted that the summit serves as a bridge in all areas, referring to a union with an economic power of 150 billion dollars. Şerifi underscored their goal of strengthening cultural ties alongside commercial relations.
Invitation to Invest in the Balkans
Montenegro Edirne Honorary Consul Naser Alim highlighted the significant investment potential of the Balkan region, stating that its low tax rates and strategic location offer substantial opportunities for Turkish investors. Alim extended an invitation to all businesspeople to invest in the Balkans.
The summit concluded after protocol speeches, a gala dinner, and a family photo session.
Source: https://www.yenisafak.com/ekonomi/global-arnavut-is-insanlari-ekonomi-zirvesi-istanbulda-duzenlendi-4794120
