ISTANBUL

Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, the African Union (AU) commissioner for economic development, tourism, trade, industry, and mining, said Thursday that Türkiye’s success in construction, manufacturing, and logistics makes it a valuable partner for Africa’s industrial ambitions.

“We must focus on deepening trade and investment between Türkiye and Africa. Not only from the perspective of the bilateral level but also by leveraging Africa as the gateway to regional value chains, harmonized regulation and commitment wide markets,” Belobe said at the 5th Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF) in Istanbul.

She said the forum takes place amid heightened global uncertainty, with economies facing inflation, disrupted supply chains, food insecurity, energy transitions, and the lingering effects of climate change and geopolitical tensions.

“But within these complex challenges lies opportunities, we believe, opportunities for Africa and for Türkiye to redefine and deepen our partnership in ways that are mutually beneficial, innovative and resilient for both partners,” she added.

Belobe outlined the AU’s ongoing efforts to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063, saying relations between Türkiye and Africa are rooted in mutual respect, solidarity, and long-term cooperation. She called for stronger collaboration to advance shared priorities.

“Our cooperation must prioritise in classic growth, economic growth, we need to intentionally empower youth, women and small size enterprises to participate in meaningful interest, innovation and entrepreneurship,” she said.

The TABEF opened in Istanbul on Thursday, organized by the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) in cooperation with the African Union and hosted by the Turkish Trade Ministry.

The two-day forum, with Anadolu as its global communications partner, is being held under the theme “Leveraging Türkiye-Africa Relations for Mutual Gains.”

Key sectors highlighted at this year’s event include agriculture and food, renewable energy, mining, automotive, textiles, transport and logistics, construction, defense, and digital technologies.