Turkey, Istanbul, Oct. 11 /Trend I.Khalilova/
Cooperation between businessmen from Islamic countries contributes to the convergence of economies and development of trade relations, the president of the Independent Industrialists and Businessmen's Association (MUSAID) Nail Olpak stated at the opening ceremony of 16th International Business Forum and Congress and the 14th International Exhibition.
These events are being organised as part of the 28th meeting of the OIC permanent committee of economic and trade cooperation and taking place on October 11-14.
Olpak noted that the Turkish economy has grown by 10.3 per cent in the first six months of 2012, although many countries experienced a recession. Turkey's exports increased 10.8 per cent within eight months, while it has grown by 123 per cent with other OIC countries.
He stated that the development of trade and economic relations between the OIC countries started within last 10 years and is continuing to grow.
Some 5000 delegates from 86 world countries joined the forum. Turkey's main purpose is to reach an export volume of $500 billion by 2023 and organisation of such business meetings is very important for agreements and future projects.
Some 735 companies, including 565 Turkish ones are represented at the exhibition.
Officials and businessmen from Islamic countries are participating in events organised by the Turkish Ministry of Economy and MUSAID. These take place with the participation of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Minister of Economy Zafar Chaglayan and economic ministers from other countries.
Egyptian minister of economy Osama Saleh, Malaysian minister of trade and industry Dato Sri Mustapha Mohamed, the director of the Islamic Development Bank Mohammed Ali and Moroccan Prime Minister Abdullah Benkirane are taking part in the forum.