Wants to sign free trade pact
Hyderabad, March 18:
Turkey seeks to double flights from India, besides opening four more connecting points. The other destinations that it is looking at are Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore.
At present, Turkish Airlines operates daily flights from Bangalore and New Delhi to Istanbul.
“We have sought permission from the Indian Government to double this number and expand to other destinations,” Dr Burak Akcapar, Turkish Ambassador to India, said.
Free Trade Agreement
Referred to as the Sick man of Europe, Turkey has now emerged the 16th largest economy in the world. After signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with 21 countries, Turkey now wants to sign one with India.
“Last year, the bilateral trade volume was just $7.6 billion. This is nowhere near to the full potential. We expect it to grow to $20 billion in the next few years,” he said.
The Ambassador was here to attend a roadshow by TUSCON (Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists of Turkey) to promote the upcoming Turkey World Trade Bridge in June.
“India and Turkey have completed a joint study on FTA. We are yet to sign it. This will pave way for signing FTA. We are awaiting the Indian side’s time for signing of study. Businessmen from both sides are eagerly waiting to tap the potential,” he said.
Consulates
Turkey would open a Consulate in Hyderabad soon. “We have received permission to open consulates in Chennai and Hyderabad. But before establishing consulates, we will appoint honorary consuls,” he said.
kurmanath@thehindu.co.in
via Business Line : Industry & Economy / Logistics : Turkey to double flights from India.
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