A prime Istanbul chamber on Friday strongly criticized what it mentioned was using visa restrictions by the European Union as a hindrance to Turkish companies, likening it to the “sword of Damocles.”
“We strongly condemn the use of the visa issue as a ‘sword of Damocles’ over Türkiye and the Turkish business world,” Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO) President Şekib Avdagiç mentioned.
Avdagiç was talking throughout a unprecedented council assembly of the chamber.
The business neighborhood has been more and more exasperated by the bureaucratic hurdles concerned in securing Schengen visas – a system that was as soon as thought-about routine however has now become an impediment for a lot of.
Businesspeople and residents have complained of prolonged processing occasions and a rising variety of EU visa rejections in recent times, a row that has been straining already delicate relations.
Ankara has referred to as the efforts “deliberate,” whereas officers from each side have sought methods to have interaction in dialogue to resolve the matter.
Avdagiç described the visa matter as the first concern requiring decision in worldwide relations, commerce and procurement applications.
“When obtaining a visa ceases to be an obstacle, the Turkish business world will be able to elevate its potential significantly,” he mentioned.
“We are addressing this matter in our discussions with EU officials and clearly stating our position,” he added.
For many years, Türkiye and the bloc have loved good commerce ties and cooperation on migration. However, relations have been strained over a number of points, together with the extended means of modernization and enlargement of the scope of the present customs union settlement and EU insurance policies on refugees from Syria.
Source: www.dailysabah.com