IZMIR - "Commercial relations between Turkey and Greece are developing rapidly. Turkey and Greece are like a river flowing in the same direction," Greek Consul General in western city of Izmir Georgios Katapodis said today.
Katapodis held a press briefing before an 18-member delegation from the Greek Foreign Board Association (HEPO) held meetings at the Izmir Chamber of Commerce.
"The trade volume between Turkey and Greece reached USD 2.6 billion in 2006. Greek exports to Turkey were worth over USD 1 billion while Turkish exports to Greece were worth over USD 1.6 billion. In the recent past, Greek investors have shown an interest in the Turkish banking sector. We are working to ease visa regulations for Turkish businessmen," told Katapodis.
Meanwhile, CEO of the Izmir Chamber of Commerce Ekrem Demirtas indicated that the current Greek delegation is the first one ever visiting Turkey from HEPO.
"Commercial relations are being promoted with economic summits held in both countries," underscored Demirtas.
Demirtas added that parties must wait for a little bit more for the establishment of a food laboratory in Rhodes before Turkey can export fresh fruits and vegetables to Greek islands.
On the other hand, Greek Consul General Georgios Katapodis paid a visit of courtesy to newly appointed Izmir Governor Cahit Kirac.
Receiving Katapodis at his office, Kirac stressed that "Turkey and Greece are two governments using the same sea and are actually sisters."