Turkish SMEs met with 1500 business people from various countries in Africa. Deputy President of TİM Ahmet Güleç stated their intention to develop relations with the continent, saying, “We invite more African companies to invest in our country.” 1500 business people from different countries in Africa gathered in Istanbul with Turkish SMEs engaged in production and export. The 11th World Cooperation Industries Forum (WCI Forum), which started at the Istanbul Wow Convention Center with the participation of Trade Minister Ömer Bolat, attracted 1500 business people from various countries in Africa, especially Sub-Saharan Africa. Representatives of around 500 SMEs operating in 70 provinces across the country were present at the 11th WCI Forum. A ceremony was held to inaugurate the event, aimed at increasing foreign trade volume between African countries and Turkey and creating new economic partnerships. INVITATION FOR INVESTMENT IN AFRICAN COMPANIES Deputy President of the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly (TİM) Ahmet Güleç emphasized that the development and progress of Africa are among the most important issues for Turkey. Güleç stated, “Our only wish is for Africa to prosper and be at peace. We are eager to deepen and enhance our relations with the continent.” Pointing out that Turkish businessmen have a direct investment of 2.3 billion dollars in Africa, Güleç said, “Africa also has a significant presence in our country. There are embassies of 36 countries. A total of 4,833 African companies are present in Turkey. As of 2023, direct investments of African companies in our country reached 294 million dollars. We invite more African companies to invest in our country.”