Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, H.E. Mr. Nishimura, visited Turkiye to push for the strengthening of economic exchange between Japan and Turkiye, which will celebrate the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year, including the pending conclusion of an EPA (Economic Partnership Agreement).

In particular, I thought it was wonderful that the Japan-Turkey Energy Forum was established. I believe that in the future, cooperation between the public and private sectors of Japan and Turkiye will lead to the promotion of business development in third countries such as Africa. The powership project that MOL is working on with Karadeniz will be one such example.

I had the opportunity to attend the breakfast meeting between Minister Nishimura and Japanese companies operating in Turkey. I explained about our cooperation with BOTAS in the FSRU, powership business with Karadeniz, and support for Turkish shipping company in the transportation of agricultural products from Ukraine by small bulk carriers.