Mehmet Şimşek's first comments on the PKK's dissolution

Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek, in his speech at the annual meeting of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), stated that the economic program implemented by Turkey has begun to yield positive results and that a new era of development will begin with the end of the fight against terrorism.

Reminding that Turkey has been fighting against PKK terrorism for nearly 50 years, Şimşek emphasized that this struggle has brought a very heavy burden not only in terms of security but also economically. Şimşek said, "PKK terrorism has cost Turkey approximately 1.8 trillion dollars to date. This is a burden that must now be left behind. With the dissolution process, this dark period can come to an end."

RESOURCES ARE TURNING TOWARD DEVELOPMENT

Stating that the energy and resources allocated to the fight against terrorism will now be directed toward development goals, Şimşek said, "Our Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia regions will be Turkey's new growth engine. A major economic revival will begin in every field, from infrastructure to employment, and from technology to education."

Stating that this transformation will provide stability and development not only to Turkey but also to the regional countries of Syria and Iraq, Şimşek said, "A Turkey without terrorism does not only pave the way for investment, but also opens the path to peace and prosperity. If Turkey's east develops, the entire country wins along with the region."

CLAIM OF DECLINE IN INFLATION 

Touching upon the economic program, Şimşek said that there is a visible decline in inflation. Stating that inflation, which has fallen from its peak of 75 percent to 38 percent today, will decline further, Şimşek stated, "The disinflation process has begun. Tight monetary policy, spending discipline, and the decline in oil prices are supporting the process."

Expressing that the Medium-Term Program is progressing as planned, Şimşek said, "There may be a slowdown in economic growth in the short term, but this will pave the way for sustainable and healthy growth in the long term."

RELATIONS WITH THE WEST ARE STRENGTHENING

Minister Şimşek stated that Turkey has regained momentum in its relations with the European Union. Drawing attention to the modernization process of the Customs Union with the EU, Şimşek noted that this could double the volume of foreign trade.

"The economic development to be achieved in the East and Southeast will also contribute to Turkey's integration with the EU," said Şimşek, expressing that in an environment without terrorism, Turkey will both become more attractive in the eyes of investors and its international reputation will increase.